Sinnemahoning State Park Campground sits in the Pennsylvania Wilds region with elevations ranging from 850 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The park spans a narrow 1,910-acre valley with Sinnemahoning Creek forming its spine. Temperatures typically range from lows of 20°F in winter to highs of 85°F in summer, with July and August being the warmest months for camping.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers visit specifically for wildlife spotting. "I had a close encounter with a massive bull elk just walking from my campsite to the restrooms at dawn!" shares John V. about his stay at Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Fishing in multiple locations: Trout fishing is popular across the region's streams and lakes. "There's plenty of Trout fishing opportunities. If you enjoy boating the dam is beautiful," notes Sadie S. who camps regularly at Sinnemahoning.
Stargazing under dark skies: The region offers excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. At Cherry Springs State Park Campground, "We had a chance to lay out in the public viewing field and star gaze. Also, there were telescopes set up and knowledgeable folks to tell you what you were viewing!" reports Kelsey M.
Hiking network: The area offers trails of varying difficulty through wooded terrain. "Sinnemahoning is definitely an excellent spot for car campers to enjoy the Elk State Forest/PA Wilds region... with plenty of hiking along the whole park," notes J K.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The remote location provides a true escape. "The campground is very small, and cell service is non-existent, but that's what we were looking for - a quiet getaway," writes Rachel B. about Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Dark night skies: Limited light pollution creates stellar stargazing. "It was cloudy the first night we stayed but I woke up in the middle of the night to the bright beautiful stars. The campground is beautiful and we had a great view of the sunset," reports Madison N. about her stay at Cherry Springs.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers enhance the camping experience. "Adults and Children alike will love the park office/Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. Learn about this building's green construction (LEED) geothermal heat, rain water harvesting system, recycled materials and more!" notes Paula L.
Creek access: Many sites allow easy water access. At Medix Run Camping Area, "Primitive sites with picnic tables and fire pits for a group... Creek is right there and it's only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette which has a store, bars, restaurants, public restrooms," reports Joann&WellsThePup I.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from limited to nonexistent. "Visited early June. Very quiet and clean campground... No cell service at all - a blessing!!!" writes Matt M. about Sinnemahoning State Park.
Seasonal popularity: Certain times see full bookings. "Limited sites. Vaulted toilets... Sites reserved and it was booked solid for early trout season. I imagine same in the fall for elk viewing," warns Amber W. about Hicks Run.
Tent site conditions: Many tent pads have challenging surfaces. "It's rocky and covered with gravel. Plenty of trees in the northwestern end for hammocks," notes Shayna about Sinnemahoning.
Weather considerations: The area experiences frequent rainfall. "Generic positive title... Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart. Cute little stream in the back with a log crossing. No cell service, near town with free wifi. No toilets or garbage," writes Zack B. about Medix Run.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds have facilities for children. "My kids love riding their bikes here. There are a few nice scenic trails that go to the lake and through the woods. Some are kid bike friendly. The nature center is great! Kid friendly and fun!" reports Amber N. about Sinnemahoning.
Consider water recreation options: Swimming opportunities add value for families. "The small, quiet campground features vault toilets... there's a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it!" shares Amber W. about Hicks Run.
Choose campgrounds with educational components: Nature centers enhance family experiences. "The park visitor's center has many participatory A/V camping and wildlife exhibits. The law enforcement/ranger was exceptionally helpful and friendly and he provided me with the locations of current elk sightings," notes David B. about Sinnemahoning.
Seek out pontoon boat opportunities: Some parks offer guided tours. "They offer a free pontoon boat tour of the lake, reservations needed because spots fill up fast! During the fall at the nearby dam rangers set up an elk viewing spot with binoculars," advises Amber N. about Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Tips for RVers
Choose appropriate campgrounds: Some areas have size restrictions. "40 ft max campers due to space/turning constraints. Not for class A rigs. Long campers up to that size should use south loop of lower campground," advises Cheryl W. about Lower Campground at Kettle Creek State Park.
Consider site specifics: Research site layouts and access. "Stayed in sites 36 and 37 with friends of ours. Campsites were very large. Pulled our 23 ft and 32 ft campers sideways across the sites," notes Tyler R. about his stay at Riverview Campsites in Benezette.
Check hookup availability: Electric and sewer connections vary. "The sites are fairly spaced apart and many are shaded by large pine trees... The pads are all gravel except for the handicapped pad, which is paved," reports David B. about pet friendly camping at Sinnemahoning State Park.
