Campsites near Meadville, Pennsylvania provide access to several northwestern Pennsylvania lakes and rivers. Located in Crawford County at around 1,400 feet elevation, the area features a mix of woodlands and wetlands with multiple reservoir lakes created in the 1930s. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during the day and fall into the 50s at night, while spring and fall camping requires extra layers for temperature swings of 30-40 degrees in a single day.
What to do
Fishing at Pymatuning Lake: The spillway area at Linesville Campground — Pymatuning State Park offers a unique wildlife experience. "We took our bikes out of the grounds and through town a little to the Pymatuning Spillway trail. The trail head was a bit of a challenge to find. We entered behind the church in town," writes Joni P., who discovered this local attraction just a short ride from camp.
Birdwatching opportunities: The marshlands around Meadville host diverse bird species. "We have seen the most beautiful sunsets here that you won't see anywhere else. There is an eagles nest on one of the islands. If you take your boat or rent one at the marina you can go out on the lake and you will see eagles for sure!!" reports AnnaMarie S. about her experiences at Pymatuning.
Biking trails: Several campgrounds offer access to regional trails. At Jamestown Campground — Pymatuning State Park, Leah L. recommends: "Bringing our bikes was a blast as we were able to bike down to the beach for swimming and we took our bikes to Meadville to do the Ernst bike trail (recommended - a paved, flat, easy 6.3 mile cycling trail through the woods and along the river)."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many campers appreciate the clean bathhouses available at most campgrounds. At Erie KOA, Kelly F. notes that "Showers were excellent and very clean. The park was very well maintained," while also mentioning that "On site pizza is very convenient and they deliver to your site."
Lake views and access: Waterfront sites provide convenient boat access at several parks. Patience W. recommends: "If you are looking to stay at a small state park campground and bring your boat near your site or launch your canoe and paddle board look no further. We loved our stay site 208 (electric only) it was big and near the water."
Family-friendly activities: Beyond hiking and swimming, many campgrounds offer recreational amenities. Jennifer L. from Pymatuning State Park Campground shares, "If you have younger kids, this site is for you. The playground is right there as is the beach. We didn't look at section 1, but already decided next time, we will go to section 3 as that seemed more shaded and no playground."
What you should know
Site variations within campgrounds: Campground loops differ significantly in shade, privacy, and amenities. Casey S. explains: "We went on a holiday weekend and so the campground was PACKED and a little too close for my liking, but for a holiday understandable. We stayed on the pet end and got a spot near the lake. But also this meant people were walking through our site to go walk to the water."
Limited shower privacy: Some campground shower facilities lack private changing areas. Leah L. mentions: "The showers do not have a changing area within the shower unit or an area to store your towel/clothes within the shower unit. There is a central dressing room with towel hooks and 4-5 showers connected to the central dressing room."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. At Jeffco Lakes Campground, Wyndie G. cautions: "There's also train tracks close by that blare the horn at all hours and for a longer duration than normal," providing insight into noise factors that might affect your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near playgrounds: For families with younger children, site selection matters. Jennifer L. advises: "If you have younger kids, this site is for you. The playground is right there as is the beach," referring to section 2 at Pymatuning State Park Campground.
Consider pet policies and beach access: Not all campground sections allow pets near recreation areas. Jeani B. warns: "I didn't like that pets are not allowed in the non-pet area as that was where the playground and swimming beach was. Made it difficult to swim and play as a family since you can't leave dogs alone at the campsite."
Seek out kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer structured recreation for different age groups. At Goddard Park Vacationland Campground, Suzan R. notes: "It was Halloween themed weekend and the extent of planning they do for the patrons was outstanding," highlighting special event weekends that can enhance a family camping trip.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites in the region require leveling equipment. Leah L. explains: "The site was not level, but we were able to get the tent trailer level without too much effort," showing that preparation is key even for smaller camping units.
Utilities placement issues: At some campgrounds, RV sites may have utilities in unexpected locations. One camper at Goddard Park Vacationland shares: "They show us on the map our full hookup. We get there and learn from other campers that we have to pull through but backwards all utilities are on the wrong side. Even our fire ring and picnic table was on the wrong side."
Off-season considerations: Weather patterns affect RV camping comfort. Mary S. advises: "We tent camped here in early June. GPS had a hard time as there are so many locations referred to as 'Pymatuning State Park.' Campsite was fine other than trying to find room to put our big tent. The showers were great--roomy and well maintained."
