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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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."
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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."
