Ford City, PA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Ford City is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Ford City camping trip.
The 1,200-acre Keystone State Park is great for day-trips and family vacations year round. Camping, modern cabins, many trails, and a lake are all within walking distance, providing an ideal setting for wildlife watching or outdoor adventures.
The park is within easy driving distance from the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, the Laurel Highlands, and their many attractions.
About 100 tent and trailer sites are available from the first Friday in April to the third Sunday of October.
Lakeside Campground is adjacent to the lake. Hillside Campground is in a more remote area of the park and accommodates those camping with pets.
Both campgrounds have a modern bathhouse. A sanitary dump station is available. Shower facilities may not be available after October 1.
The 11 modern cabins are available year round. They are located near the breast of the dam between the two campgrounds.
Three cottages, located in Lakeside Campground, sleep five people in bunk beds.
Two yurts are located in Lakeside Campground.
These round, canvas, and wood-walled tents have a wooden deck and sleep five people in bunk beds.
$15 - $166 / night
$26 - $35 / night
Authorized by the Flood Control Acts of 1936 and 1938, Crooked Creek Lake is one of 16 flood control projects in the Pittsburgh District. An important link in a system of flood control projects, Crooked Creek provides flood protection for the lower Allegheny and Ohio rivers. The construction cost of over $4 million appears small when compared to the giant saving which have resulted. Since its completion in 1940, the project has prevented flood damages estimated to be in excess of $548 million. Crooked creek also stores water and releases it downstream during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, navigation, recreation, aesthetics and aquatic life.
The lake and its miles of scenic shoreline provide unlimited opportunities for water-based recreation. A boat launch with ample trailer parking is available for boating and waterskiing enthusiasts. Swimmers and sunbathers will especially appreciate the lake's sandy, peninsula beach.The great variety and abundance of fish found in the lake have lured many fishermen to its waters. Crooked Creek Lake has yielded many fine catches of bass, muskie, sunfish and crappie.Picnicking is well liked at Crooked Creek. There are several picnic areas maintained by the Corps that are provided with tables and charcoal grills. There are six picnic shelters with picnic tables and grills, along with a 46 site family campground Crooked Creek Lake also offers a 9 hole disc golf course located at the Justice Pavilion.
Nestled among the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania, Crooked Creek Lake is an ideal setting for year round outdoor activities. Located only 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to discover the scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding countryside at the Crooked Creek project.
The long distance hiker will enjoy the 141-mile Baker Trail which crosses Crooked Creek Lake on its course through western Pennsylvania. The Crooked Creek Outdoor Discovery Center is operated by the Armstrong Center for Community Learning. It is used by groups and agencies interested in environmental stewardship and offers a variety of educational programs. To learn more, please visit: www.armstrongcenter.org/environmental-learning-center/ . Approximately two miles away from the park, Crooked Creek Horse Park, operated by the Fort Armstrong Horsemen's Association, offers horse staging facilities, stalls, and miles of horseback riding trails.
$15 / night
If you want to go to a campground with a swimming pool, a bingo game, and an ice cream social, then we probably are not your ideal campground. There are wonderful campgrounds in the area that offer that type of experience. However, if you are looking for a campground that offers quiet moments around a fire, beautiful sunsets, and a peaceful walk through the woods, then you should probably make a reservation today.
$48 / night
Bear Run Campground is a full-service family vacation destination operated by the Wehr Family since 1975. This top-rated Good Sam and Trailer Life Park offers a wide range of accommodations; select from RV and pull-thru sites, rustic to deluxe cabins, or tent and backpacking and walk-in sites. Of course, Bear Run Campground has all the amenities to make your stay convenient and easy going. In addition, Bear Run Campground offers an array of activities for adults and children to enjoy.
Nestled into the beautiful Western Pennsylvania countryside and bordering Moraine State Park and a wealth of natural treasures in the surrounding area, Bear Run Campground is truly a gem that offers an unparalleled family camping experience near Pittsburgh. Learn all about what's waiting for you in Butler County!
COME FOR THE FUN OF IT!
Silver Canoe Campground is a fun place to play for young and old alike. We are located on 40 acres on State Route 210 on the upper end of the very picturesque Keystone Lake in a serene wooded valley in western Pennsylvania.
Wildlife abounds all around you, from the deer frolicking along the waters edge to the bear wondering in the woods, to the lonely fox walking across the meadows. Take the time to enjoy the sites and sounds of the Dayton/ Smicksburg area and see what all we have to offer. From the quaint shops to the tantalizing aromas coming from the restaurants, to the clippety-clop of the Amish horse and buggies.
$8 - $51 / night
At Breakneck, we offer camp sites that will please any type of camper, from remote primitive sites to fully enclosed cabins with electricity. Refer to the Camp Site Overview below for our current rates and amenities for each type of site. For more information and photographs, or if you have any additional questions, please fill free to contact us anytime.
$10 - $20 / night
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest is rated as one of the best, set under the tall trees in the prettiest parts of Butler County in Western Pennsylvania. From basic tenting & RV's, to BIG RIG pull-thru sites, They have what you need. Rental cabins, basic to full service, and Yurts are available. The group camping area with a picnic pavilion is great for clubs and family reunions. With scheduled activities, & family fun, Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest is a great delight for the entire family. This campground has 170 shaded sites with 20/30/50 amp service, laser tag, gaga ball, RC car tracks, bike track, swimming pool, game room, store, playground, fire rings, full schedule of activities and games. 10 miles from Grove City Prime Outlets and Moraine State Park, near Amish country, 60 miles north of Pittsburgh and 90 miles south of Erie. Very conveniently located close to Interstate 79 and Interstate 80. Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest is an award winning park. In 2011/2014/2015/2017/2020 they were recognized as ARVC National "Park of the Year". In addition, The Yogi Bear Franchise has awarded them "2021 Franchise System Camp-Resort of the Year - Eastern Region", 2014 "Facility of the Year", 2013 "Entrepreneur of the Year", and in 2012 "#1 Inspection Rating". The restrooms are some of the best in the country.
$41 - $750 / night
From the website:
Primitive tenting not allowed, only group camping as described below. Backpacking site (shelter) with permit.
Update 9/14/2020: All state park day-use and overnight lodging facilities are open according to standard seasons and hours. Group cabin camps remain closed for 2020.
Modern Cabins
Eleven modern cabins are available for rent year round. These cabins sleep six people and have:
Two bedrooms
Bathroom with shower
Kitchen
Dining/living area
Electric heat
Dock on Lake Arthur during the summer seasonRenters must provide:
Linens
Towels
Cookware
TablewarePlay equipment for children is in a central area.
This activity or structure is ADA accessible.
Dogs are permitted in Cabins #7 and #11 for a fee.
Moraine State Park Cabin Map (PDF)
GPS DD: Lat. 40.96586 Long. -80.11389 No Camping
Camping is prohibited in the park. Private campgrounds nearby offer camping. Information is available at the park office. Backpacking
The Link Road Overnight Shelter on the North Country National Scenic Trail is available to backpackers by reservation only. Organized Group Tenting
There are two tent camping areas available for organized groups:
Muskrat Cove
Five PointsThese rustic camps have:
Restrooms
Picnic tables
Cooking grills
Water, but no showersAdvance reservations are required. To reserve a group tent campsite, call 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday to Saturday, 7:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. except on the Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day holidays.
Smith Grove Campground is family owned and operated on 56 acres of woodland, accommodating all styles of camping. Enjoy camping at affordable rates. We are open from April 15th - October 15th, weather depending. All sites include a fire ring and picnic table. We are AAA affiliated and our clean modern restrooms with hot showers are handicap accessible. Only 40 minutes from Pittsburgh and 10 minutes from Lernerville Speedway! Smith Grove offers a safe family and pet camping experience.
$30 - $95 / night
The 1,200-acre Keystone State Park is great for day-trips and family vacations year round. Camping, modern cabins, many trails, and a lake are all within walking distance, providing an ideal setting for wildlife watching or outdoor adventures.
The park is within easy driving distance from the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, the Laurel Highlands, and their many attractions.
About 100 tent and trailer sites are available from the first Friday in April to the third Sunday of October.
Lakeside Campground is adjacent to the lake. Hillside Campground is in a more remote area of the park and accommodates those camping with pets.
Both campgrounds have a modern bathhouse. A sanitary dump station is available. Shower facilities may not be available after October 1.
The 11 modern cabins are available year round. They are located near the breast of the dam between the two campgrounds.
Three cottages, located in Lakeside Campground, sleep five people in bunk beds.
Two yurts are located in Lakeside Campground.
These round, canvas, and wood-walled tents have a wooden deck and sleep five people in bunk beds.
$15 - $166 / night
$26 - $35 / night
Authorized by the Flood Control Acts of 1936 and 1938, Crooked Creek Lake is one of 16 flood control projects in the Pittsburgh District. An important link in a system of flood control projects, Crooked Creek provides flood protection for the lower Allegheny and Ohio rivers. The construction cost of over $4 million appears small when compared to the giant saving which have resulted. Since its completion in 1940, the project has prevented flood damages estimated to be in excess of $548 million. Crooked creek also stores water and releases it downstream during dry periods to improve water quality and quantity for domestic and industrial use, navigation, recreation, aesthetics and aquatic life.
The lake and its miles of scenic shoreline provide unlimited opportunities for water-based recreation. A boat launch with ample trailer parking is available for boating and waterskiing enthusiasts. Swimmers and sunbathers will especially appreciate the lake's sandy, peninsula beach.The great variety and abundance of fish found in the lake have lured many fishermen to its waters. Crooked Creek Lake has yielded many fine catches of bass, muskie, sunfish and crappie.Picnicking is well liked at Crooked Creek. There are several picnic areas maintained by the Corps that are provided with tables and charcoal grills. There are six picnic shelters with picnic tables and grills, along with a 46 site family campground Crooked Creek Lake also offers a 9 hole disc golf course located at the Justice Pavilion.
Nestled among the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania, Crooked Creek Lake is an ideal setting for year round outdoor activities. Located only 30 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to discover the scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding countryside at the Crooked Creek project.
The long distance hiker will enjoy the 141-mile Baker Trail which crosses Crooked Creek Lake on its course through western Pennsylvania. The Crooked Creek Outdoor Discovery Center is operated by the Armstrong Center for Community Learning. It is used by groups and agencies interested in environmental stewardship and offers a variety of educational programs. To learn more, please visit: www.armstrongcenter.org/environmental-learning-center/ . Approximately two miles away from the park, Crooked Creek Horse Park, operated by the Fort Armstrong Horsemen's Association, offers horse staging facilities, stalls, and miles of horseback riding trails.
$15 / night
If you want to go to a campground with a swimming pool, a bingo game, and an ice cream social, then we probably are not your ideal campground. There are wonderful campgrounds in the area that offer that type of experience. However, if you are looking for a campground that offers quiet moments around a fire, beautiful sunsets, and a peaceful walk through the woods, then you should probably make a reservation today.
$48 / night
Bear Run Campground is a full-service family vacation destination operated by the Wehr Family since 1975. This top-rated Good Sam and Trailer Life Park offers a wide range of accommodations; select from RV and pull-thru sites, rustic to deluxe cabins, or tent and backpacking and walk-in sites. Of course, Bear Run Campground has all the amenities to make your stay convenient and easy going. In addition, Bear Run Campground offers an array of activities for adults and children to enjoy.
Nestled into the beautiful Western Pennsylvania countryside and bordering Moraine State Park and a wealth of natural treasures in the surrounding area, Bear Run Campground is truly a gem that offers an unparalleled family camping experience near Pittsburgh. Learn all about what's waiting for you in Butler County!
COME FOR THE FUN OF IT!
Silver Canoe Campground is a fun place to play for young and old alike. We are located on 40 acres on State Route 210 on the upper end of the very picturesque Keystone Lake in a serene wooded valley in western Pennsylvania.
Wildlife abounds all around you, from the deer frolicking along the waters edge to the bear wondering in the woods, to the lonely fox walking across the meadows. Take the time to enjoy the sites and sounds of the Dayton/ Smicksburg area and see what all we have to offer. From the quaint shops to the tantalizing aromas coming from the restaurants, to the clippety-clop of the Amish horse and buggies.
$8 - $51 / night
Scout
Cooks forest is absolutely gorgeous. I look forward to returning as there are a lot of hiking opportunities we missed. We stayed in the pet friendly area, which was nice. There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground. Our site was right next to a drinking water spigot and a path to the bath house. The sites near ours were in a wooded area, which felt more private than many of the other sites we saw. There was a fore pit and a picnic table. Our fire pit was behind where the camper was parked, which also felt more private. There is no alcohol permitted in PA state parks, so alcohol is prohibited in the campground as well. It was a great spot, and we look forward to returning.
Scout
I came up for an event at the farm show grounds(yes the event you’re thinking of). I made a reservation and paid in full the day after it was announced 6 days beforehand. I got a call the day before Friday stating that I wasn’t able to check in until 1PM and the latest was 8PM. I asked if I could park there before the event and deal with it later. The owner reluctantly agreed, however said that my vehicle would be towed if I came after 8. He also stated that I couldn’t check in early or wait a little. Gates closed at 1; and was over at 8 and couldn’t leave the parking lot until 10. Needless to say I just drove home 3 hours instead. Mind you the“campground” is a quarter mile from the farm show grounds. I honestly just wanted somewhere to rest my eyes for a couple of hours in my car before I left early on the morning. I understand that places like this have policies, however this was probably the largest congregation of people Butler and the Farm Show has ever hosted. There was 10s of thousands of people in town and as a bonus the rounds were closed to due construction. If you lean even a little right, caveat emptor. The guy knew exactly what was doing. This will be the most expensive$35 this guy ever stole.
Guide
Any worker over the age of 20 was super rude and they did NOT Re-Book Our Reservation For Next Year The Website sates that it is now being managed by a company called Oasis Marianas. There Are Signs Falling Apart And They Pool Was Water Orange! The Arcade was completely broken the showers were tiny and the entire place is in disrepair. The Gate was taken off the Opener And thrown into the weeds DISAPPOINTING And This Place was NOT CHEAP And Was Super RunDown.
Scout
Happy to as soon as I get to stay
Scout
Great staff great place.
Guide
Wolf's Camping Resort Is The Perfect Campground For Family's To Stay At With Its large Swimming Pool And It's Large Game room It is prefect for kids young and old! It has a large store with helpful employees and it sits on a large plot of land that includes a small mini golf corse and a full sized 18 hole golf course with many activities and themed weekends that you can find on their Facebook it is the perfect place to come!
RangerMany disbursed spots along the river over several miles. Size od camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road
We came in on a Saturday and found one of the road side sites open. Not much traffic and very friendly people in the area.
The river was basically brown like pudding the only signs of life were insects. While a very beautiful area, the river was king of yucky looking.
Scout
This is our second time staying here - once in Electric site on Lakeside and this time non electric site on Hillside. Love this side of Hillside - quiet and shaded. Very clean park and shower house does not have the timed showers of Lakeside. Both times very much appreciated the presense of DCNR - on foot this time. Very nice park to hike, swim, walk, bike, and kayak. The little store has drinks and snacks. Because the beach was closed we had considered going to Deery Community Pool 7 miles away - another option in the area.
Traveler
I took my 7yo son last year for his first time camping. He absolutely loved it!!! Everyone was very nice & the heated pool & campstore are great. He especially enjoyed the “rock mining”. He keeps wanting to go back to get the motherload bag to mine!
Scout
Nice campground with full hook ups. Close to a large recreational lake with hiking trails and a boat launch. Sites were fairly level no issues with power fluctuations and sewer worked great!
ScoutWe stayed here for a week in June 2024 in our 42-foot fifth wheel. Overall the campground is clean and well-maintained. The owner is friendly and helpful. Amenities include a heated, in-ground pool, a recreation center, a pavilion, and swing sets.
The current owners have had the campground since ~2014 and have made many repairs and improvements. Water, electric, and sewage lines have been replaced or upgraded in the past few years. We had stable electric and good water.
Unfortunately no WiFi is available, but there was a good AT&T cell phone signal.
Scout
This campsite was close to an archery tournament for me. It is a huge campsite that is remote and peaceful. I will try to get this place again next year.
Traveler
Lots to do. Very convenient. Huge pool (indoor/outdoor).
GuideIf you are looking for lots of amenities - swimming pool, organized activities, mini golf etc. and don’t mind being stacked together with other campers, this is the place for you. Camp sites have no privacy, lots of golf carts going by regularly. There is a large quantity (100s) of permanent sites. Bath houses certainly not designed for lots of people in terms of size, but the showers were free, hot, clean and had good water pressure. Here for a gathering of 50 or so campers. Nice pavilion area. Would probably only return for a similar event.
Traveler
First time staying at Clear Creek State Park and had a spot just below where the Creek empties into the River. We were able to turn the RV so the door/awning faced the River. We saw a two different Merganser mamas with young, a green heron fishing, and a bald eagle go up the River. We were right across from the showerhouse but noise was minimal. Our dog had the riverbank to explore on her camp leash of course. Hiking above the campground was very nice and we did an easy loop of almost 6 miles. Mountain Laurels were in bloom. Very clean park. Showerhouse was well-kept. Bringing the kayaks next time.
Guide
We live in Oregon and our son and family live in Zelienople. We have stayed here in 2019, 2021, 2023 and now 2024. The owners and staff are wonderful, right on top of things. We enjoy spending time with our son and his family in Zeli and Harmony as well as the other Villages around. Highly recommend IBCG to everyone (until we can't get a spot!)
ScoutThis campground was perfect for what we needed to accomplish! As first time travel trailer owners, they helped us accomplish our first trip away! Upon calling to book a site, we mentioned this was our first trip, they made the utmost effort to accommodate us with all of our needs. They escorted us to our campsite (which was larger than most) and made sure we had plenty of help getting backed in and set up! The front office and store was tiny but had a few essentials in case you forgot or didn’t have things. The site was quiet and even though you were close to your neighbors it didn’t feel like it to us! The atmosphere seemed friendly among the other campers and they were all willing to lend a helping hand where needed. They definitely made our first trip a huge success!
Scout
Was a relaxing 4 days at a tent site. Would absolutely recommend this campground!
ScoutWe love staying here when we visit family in Butler it’s a quiet family run park . It is very affordable and bathrooms are clean
Guide
Everything Was Perfect
The Day before they Called us to make sure that we were still coming and to confirm the reservation and offered us a FREE site upgrade! it is the little thing that count and we said yes! It was one of their deluxe patio sites ,super nice patio with concrete pad and Nice Picnic Table! Site was Super Large And Was Perfect For A larger rig! Our Rig is only about 34 feet long but still perfect.
Halloween Events
ScoutThis place was awesome! We were there for one of the first weekends of the season, and we enjoyed every bit of our trip. Not only were the staff super friendly and helpful, but we were lucky enough to get a full-hookup site right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, everything you want on a spring trip. We really got to witness the owners' kindness when we left for a hiking trip and a sudden windstorm caught our awning and broke one side of it, sending most of the awning itself up on the roof. The owner and his son got right to work fixing it: One got up on the roof and the other worked from the bottom to set it right and wire the broken arm to the side of the trailer so we could drive home. They also folded up our chairs and put everything we had outside in a neat little pile. I've been camping for nearly 40 years and have never witnessed that kind of pro-activeness. It's exactly what you SHOULD(but don't often) get. We will absolutely be back.
Guide
Mountain Top was off the beaten path and very quiet. The check in process was easy and our site was flat. We had the most amazing views from our site. Water and electricity were easy to access and hook up. Bathhouse was clean. Only disappointment was that the showers were coin operated, so you not only needed cash on hand but then had to turn those into special coins for the shower. They had both ice and firewood available that was self service.
Scout
Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn.
Ranger
This is truly one of my favorite state parks to camp at. The whole campground is mostly wooded with hardly a bad site. They have primitive, electric only and full hookups available. This is definitely a family friendly campground. If you're into hiking there's lots to see here. There's no camp store in the campground, who is something they could improve upon, but you can get supplies nearby.
GuideThis Campground Is Well Used But Is Still Nice
ScoutCampground is very nice. A lot of sites with plenty of room at each site. Bathrooms were very clean as well.
Scout
This place will literally scam you out of every dollar they can! Don't use the hot tubs....and you'll still be charged for dirty water. Also, watch for cameras. Pretty bad that the cabin was cleaner when I left then when I showed up. Yet they charged$100 for dirty hot tub water when I made sure the filter was clean and no foam existed when I left. After stating they were getting a bad review for scamming me out of money they threatened to post some bullshit video of a dirty hot tub filter, which I find hilarious considering it could not have been the same filter since I checked it before I departed. I am not the only one complaining about this nonsense...read all reviews from all sources and take pictures to prove everything cause it seems they like to dirty shit themselves just to make a quick dollar. They will be nice to your face, then scam you out of your money, and after they charge your card they become ignorant liars.
Camping near Ford City, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Ford City, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ford City, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ford City, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 91 campgrounds and RV parks near Ford City, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ford City, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ford City, PA is Keystone State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 20 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ford City, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Ford City, PA.
What parks are near Ford City, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Ford City, PA that allow camping, notably Crooked Creek Lake and Tionesta Lake.
