Campgrounds near DuBois, Pennsylvania range from established state parks to private facilities, with options for tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. Parker Dam State Park Campground offers electric hookups, showers, and accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabins in a forested setting about 20 miles northeast of DuBois. DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA provides similar amenities closer to town with full hookup sites. Cook Forest State Park, approximately 30 miles northwest, features campgrounds with cabins nestled among ancient hemlock groves. Clear Creek State Park Campground along the Clarion River provides waterfront sites popular with paddlers and anglers. The DuBois area offers over 100 camping options within driving distance, making it an excellent base for exploring Pennsylvania's natural landscapes.
The camping season in this region typically runs from April through October, with most facilities closing for winter by mid-December. Parker Dam operates from the second Friday in April until mid-December, while the DuBois KOA is open May through October. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods when campgrounds reach capacity. Many campers note the variable weather conditions in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. A camper at Clear Creek State Park mentioned, "The Clarion River is great for kayaking. Multiple trails off of park. Biking and breweries close by. If you have RV/travel trailer do NOT recommend the non-power sites, they are not level enough."
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, with sites along the Clarion River being particularly sought after. Clear Creek and Cook Forest State Parks provide access to the river for fishing, swimming, and paddling opportunities. Several visitors highlighted the natural features of the area, including the old-growth forest in Cook Forest. One reviewer noted, "Cook Forest is absolutely gorgeous. I look forward to returning as there are a lot of hiking opportunities." Campground amenities vary significantly, with state parks generally offering clean bathhouses with hot showers, while more remote sites may have limited facilities. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region, particularly in the valleys and more remote campgrounds. Most developed campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water, though some primitive sites may require campers to bring their own supplies.
$20 - $72 / night
"There’s a little lake there, and a stream and some trails but in general it’s all pretty uninspiring."
"These two sites are shaded, surrounded by trees and pretty much private to the rest of the "Modern" campground."
"It is very close to I80, however, there is a 5 mile drive thru a housing development where the 25 MPH speed limit is enforced by an overly zealous security guard."
"Dog run is ok and have to walk a good was to the trash bin depending on campsite. Will be back. Some sites have concrete patio which I do recommend."
"We rolled through the area later than ideal and Dale welcomed us as a walk-in. Waited up for us and showed us a spot - it was perfect. Beautiful view and easy to get in and out."
$20 - $67 / night
"Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"
"There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."
$22 - $57 / night
"A must do when camping in Pennsylvania. The Clarian river is great for kayaking . Multiple trails off of park."
"There are kayak rentals nearby also. The Clarion River is full of wildlife including bald eagles hunting the river and an occasional black bear nearby."
$18 - $67 / night
"We enjoyed just walking around the cabin loop and back roads. There is wood for sale at the maitenance barn for $5 a bundle self serve honor system. Parker Dam is closeby with more to do and a store."
"There isn't a camp store, but I-80 is 2 miles down the road and there are places to shop/eat in nearby Clearfield. "
"There was a ton of trash in and around the fire ring, and there were deer entrails about 10 feet from the fire ring. Besides that, the site was great."
"This spot allows you to relax without to much concern,dogs welcome ,boating and swimming was awesome for around this area. Camping is great especially at night with boats on the water."
$40 - $245 / night
"This campground is just far enough away from home that it feels worlds away while still being convenient for forgotten items."
"The store front has anything you can think of, and the playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day"
$10 / night
"Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd."
"Have your own little driveway to park your car right next to the site. Comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart."
ScoutClean campground, water, electric. Saw a turkey upon arrival and a deer and multiple black squirrels when departing. Nice little store with arcade, snacks and pizza they will deliver to your site on Fridays! Heated pool and pretty nice bathrooms
TravelerA great place to spend some time. Very quiet plenty of hiking trails, the river is great for kayaking. Lots of big hemlock trees. Definitely will return in the fall.
RangerWhat a gorgeous area. Camp site has a path down to Medix Run (which seems quite clean) with a perfect spot to set out camp chairs and watch the water. Beautiful sounds of birds and spring wildflowers all over the site. Sites are well spaced. The road is surprisingly busy day and night, which did take away from the experience. Unfortunately that issue was dwarfed by other behavior.
Imagine you're sitting by the water on your campsite at 6pm, and a man is suddenly standing next to you. On your dispersed, state forest camp site. With a path only accessible by walking through the site. He tells you a beaver dam used to be here and goes into the water to fish. Weird things happen, but THREE different fishermen at different times used our campsite as their fishing base. Not the area next to it, the campsite. Even parked down the driveway next to our car.
Maybe you're not bothered by this. Maybe it's because you've read this and now had the chance to consider the possibility. However, I'd be willing to bet you'd rather not be surprised. Especially when there are no amenities and as a woman, you need to get partially undressed just to take a leak in the morning.
This is unacceptable behavior. There were other unoccupied campsites, turn offs and places to stop and fish. In all my life camping, no one has ever done this sort of thing. You stay off campsites when other people are there, unless you need help or want to pass on information.
If one person had done this, I wouldn't be writing such a cranky review but three instances warrants a warning for other campers. Good luck, folks.
GuideKibbes campground is a old family business located on an island on the Allegheny River. Great spot for fisherman!!!! Park roads are tore up and very muddy. Bathrooms aren't the cleanest and run down. Shower house doesnt work. But they do have a nice indoor recreation room with darts, slot machines, pool tables, and nice seating. While it wouldn't be my pick of destinations, I am glad I found it. It has a old school charm and the owners are super nice!
TravelerWe arrived mid week for Memorial Day camping. No hookups obviously but beautiful large site with room for probably up to 30’ RV. The sites are WAY further apart than you think they are. Like spread more than 10 miles.
GuideMedium sized campground. All the sites are large and private ish. Not a bad or uneven site anywhere. Showers and bathrooms are clean. Ice and firewood available at the host. Easy access to the shoreline for fishing or boating. Their are 2 trading posts 1.6 miles outside the campground going towards Kane, PA. They are well stocked and have everything you forgot plus live bait.
GuideIf your coming here off of Rt. 666 the access gate is closed and has been for years. Continue to Crary Ave. Rt.6 in Sheffield and head East. About 6 miles ahead turn right onto Mill Ln., then Right on Curtis Rd., left onto Curtis Road extended, then turn right onto Forestry Rd. There are posted private property signs everywhere, just keep going as this is the only access to this area. I asked the locals and it is fine. Do not come here if you have a car or low riding vehicle. SUV, Jeeps, and trucks only. The access road is fine, but getting to campsite takes a higher frame vehicle. It is a perfect place for peaceful Boondocking. This area can accommodate 2 camp sights. Maybe 3.
TravelerM9, short RVsM6 under 25’ or less big drop off. M8 tents only, M7 parking spot filled with gravel (for maintenance?), M6 short RVs under 22’ with tent area behind, M5 gravel again, M3 & M4 are together with one side good for RVs and a tent site that is a significant hike through the woods. M2 tents only, M1 good size for RV but it’s shaped like a T so you need to maneuver it in.
TravelerShort term area was basically an open field with a few trees. Restrooms were large but plumbing has a lot to be desired. Friendly staff, quiet and lots of amenities to include a snack shop with panini’s, pizza, tacos and more. Super good WiFi
Campsites near DuBois, Pennsylvania range from primitive forest sites to developed campgrounds with electric hookups and cabin options. Located in the Pennsylvania Wilds region at elevations between 1,300-1,600 feet, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with summer nights often dropping below 55°F even when daytime temperatures reach 80°F. The Moshannon and Elk State Forests surround much of the region, creating a dense woodland camping environment.
Wildlife viewing at Parker Dam State Park: Located about 20 miles from DuBois, the park offers opportunities to see various wildlife including elk. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds... Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal. During the eight months the timber rattler is a common site along the roads and in the trails. Keep your eyes open and respect them," notes Travis S. from Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds in the area feature disc golf courses for campers. "I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so i played more game then fished," reports Daniel S. about his experience at Curwensville Lake Campground.
Hiking the forest trails: The region offers numerous hiking options through old growth forests. The Quehanna Wild Area borders Parker Dam State Park with "lots of history and hiking," according to Travis S. Many campgrounds connect directly to trail systems.
Rock crossing at Clear Creek: The park features unique natural formations for exploration. "Love hopping the rocks at the spillway, hiking, looking for crayfish, and swimming in the dam," mentions Angela about her experiences at Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Primitive forest campsites: Free dispersed camping options exist in the state forests near DuBois. "This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve. Nice site with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it," explains Joann about Medix Run Camping Area.
Wildlife encounters: The Pennsylvania Wilds region delivers frequent wildlife sightings. "Deer came up to campsite every morning. Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette," shares Shirley M. from Parker Dam State Park.
Swimming areas: Many campgrounds feature swimming beaches or pools. "The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day," notes Ashley S. about the pool at Campers Paradise. Clear Creek has "a great little beach at the entrance of the campground," though Angela warns "water is always cold."
Quiet camping environments: Many campers note the peaceful settings. At Medix Run, one camper observed, "It was incredibly quiet, no cell service, and I couldn't hear any of the neighboring campsites even though they were all full."
Reservation timing: State parks in the region require advance planning, especially for summer weekends. According to Gary P., "We arrived on a Thursday and, in advance, reserved one of the few remaining sites" at Parker Dam State Park.
Variable site conditions: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven sites requiring preparation. At Simon B. Elliott State Park, Casey L. reports: "We stayed in site 6. It was a very small site and had no established spot to put our tent so we actually had to encroach on site 7... Everywhere else was unlevel/uneven/rocky/rooty/muddy/etc. They should put in tent pads."
Limited amenities at some locations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground, "There isn't a camp store, but I-80 is 2 miles down the road and there are places to shop/eat in nearby Clearfield," according to Danielle S.
Cell service issues: Connectivity varies throughout the region. At Parker Dam, Shirley M. notes "limited cell service." Many of the forest campgrounds have no service at all.
Educational programs: State parks offer nature learning opportunities. "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" recommends Laura C. about Clear Creek State Park.
Water activities: Many campgrounds offer child-friendly water recreation. Angela remembers, "Love hopping the rocks at the spillway, hiking, looking for crayfish, and swimming in the dam. They have pavilions to have picnics... Rent paddle boats or canoes."
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds have play areas and activities. At DuBois Treasure Lake KOA, "They had a huge pool that was advertised as heated but was so cold it felt like they dumped ice cubes in it. I wish they had more planned activities for the kids," notes Jessica.
Bear awareness: Bears are present in the region. Caitlyn H. reported, "I did have two separate run in with bears" at Clear Creek State Park, though she still rated it 5 stars.
Site selection is critical: Research RV sites carefully before booking. At Parker Dam, Travis S. advises: "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. Parker Dam "has added many full hookup sites," according to J K., with "nice clean sites."
Site leveling: Many RV campers note issues with uneven sites. Isaac R. warns about Clear Creek: "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Big rig accessibility: The DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA accommodates larger RVs, with Bill B. noting, "This KOA is way back in the woods. Love it. Rock sites mostly level. Most sites are huge." However, he adds that "Some sites have concrete patio which I do recommend."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there RV hookups available at DuBois campgrounds?
Yes, several campgrounds near DuBois offer RV hookups. Woodland Campground provides spacious sites that can accommodate large rigs, with a beautiful park-like setting featuring a lake and trails. Cook Forest State Park Campground offers sites with picnic tables and fire rings with grills, including some with electrical hookups. For RV camping, avoid non-powered sites at Clear Creek State Park as they tend to be uneven. DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA also offers water and electric hookups that can accommodate big rigs. When booking, be sure to specify your RV size and hookup requirements to ensure an appropriate site.
What campgrounds are available near DuBois, PA?
The DuBois area offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Clear Creek State Park Campground is highly recommended, featuring tent sites, RV spots, rustic cabins, and yurts along the scenic Clarion River. For a unique experience, Austin Campground provides clean facilities with running water and showers in a beautiful setting between mountains along a creek. Other nearby options include Clearview Campground, Simon B. Elliott State Park, and several campgrounds in the Allegheny National Forest. Most locations offer a mix of recreational activities including hiking trails, fishing, and water activities, making the DuBois region a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
What is Treasure Lake KOA in DuBois and what amenities does it offer?
DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA is a well-equipped campground offering multiple access options including drive-in, walk-in, and even boat-in sites. This family-friendly destination features full amenities including clean water facilities, restrooms, and sites designed to accommodate big rigs. The campground is situated near recreational waters, making it ideal for fishing and boating activities. For those seeking additional outdoor experiences nearby, Red Bridge Recreation Area in the Allegheny National Forest is within driving distance. Treasure Lake KOA is reservable in advance, making it a convenient option for planning family camping trips in the DuBois area.
Keep Exploring
