168 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The forested landscapes surrounding Frenchville, Pennsylvania provide a range of camping options within Moshannon State Forest and nearby state parks. Established campgrounds like Black Moshannon State Park, Parker Dam State Park, and Woodland Campground offer accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabins, with several sites featuring electric hookups, shower facilities, and reservable spots. Most developed campgrounds in the region maintain modern amenities including showers, flush toilets, and picnic tables, while more primitive options exist for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Camping season in the region typically runs from mid-April through mid-December, with most campgrounds closing during winter months. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and fall foliage season. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures reaching the 80s while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. Cell phone coverage is limited in many areas, particularly at more remote sites like Medix Run Camping Area in Moshannon State Forest. Visitors should prepare for limited connectivity, as one camper noted: "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites."
Many campgrounds in the area feature waterfront locations, with access to lakes and streams for fishing, swimming, and boating activities. Parker Dam State Park Campground provides access to hiking trails and water recreation, while Woodland Campground offers spacious sites with drinking water and electric hookups. Campers frequently mention the peaceful surroundings and wildlife viewing opportunities. The region appeals to visitors seeking outdoor activities with convenient amenities. A camper at Black Moshannon described the experience: "We have tented and RV'd at Clear Creek. A must do when camping in Pennsylvania. The Clarian river is great for kayaking. Multiple trails off of park." The proximity to fishing streams, hiking trails, and other recreational opportunities makes these campgrounds popular destinations during the warmer months.
"Electric motorboats are permitted on Moshannon Lake. Boat rentals are available in season."
"Great hiking and a beautiful lake for kayaking. Site 22 is a full hookup. Utilities worked nicely. However, our picnic table had seen better days. "
from $20 - $87 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $20 - $72 / night
Check Availability"Woodland campground in Woodland, Pennsylvania is a friendly family-owned campground. The grounds are a beautiful park-like setting with a lake and trails."
"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."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"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. "
from $18 - $67 / night
Check Availability"A standard Ford Explorer handled the drive without trouble, though bringing a trailer would likely only be practical if it is set up for overlanding conditions."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Step inside to view elk bear birds and other wildlife! Learn about the building of the dam and the early days of the CCC camps."
"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!"
from $22 - $29 / night
Check Availability"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."
"Only one shower house in the mountain view entrance so it would be a short drive if you do not use your camper bathroom."
from $35 - $55 / night
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TravelerThey have 30 amp sites. No water but there is a dump station. Bring your Starlink there is no cell signal. Bathrooms are decent. Good Stargazing(head to nearby Cherry Springs). This is one of the most “out of the way” places in the eastern US. Not quite boon docking but close. There is a guy on the corner that sells firewood. Download maps to get in and out. Listen for the Elk. Watch for Bears.
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.
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.
GuideThe campground was decent enough, but I would probably skip it next time and stay in the state forest instead. The campsites are not especially private and while they are not directly on top of each other, you are definitely aware of nearby campers. That said, it is a great location for stargazing and the pit toilets are convenient if you prefer at least some amenities.
The biggest downside was the lack of firewood. None was available on site and there was little opportunity to gather any from the surrounding woods. After one night, I felt like I had gotten the experience. For my money, I would rather camp nearby in Susquehannock State Forest where you can find far more private and secluded spots for less cost. You give up amenities like toilets, but if privacy and a quieter camping experience matter more, the state forest feels like the better option while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the dark skies near Cherry Springs State Park.
One nearby spot that is absolutely worth the short drive is the Water Tank Vista overlook. The view alone makes the trip worthwhile, especially around sunset or on a clear day. If you are camping in the area, it is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem and adds a lot to the overall experience.
GuideThe campsite is located about three miles down from Cherry Springs State Park and Campground, just off the road. It is visible from the road, so if complete privacy is important to you, keep that in mind. That said, the setting itself is beautiful, especially the drive in through the tall pine forests which immediately gave the area a peaceful feel.
The site has two good level tent spots and one semi level spot, all within view of where you park, which made unloading and setup easy. It took me roughly an hour to get camp fully set up. One thing to know going in: there is absolutely no cell service at least with T mobile, which can either be a huge positive or a dealbreaker depending on what you’re looking for.
One of the best features of the site is a nice trail leading back to a creek that you can hear flowing from camp. I spent some time walking along it and tossed a fishing line in a few times. The current was moving pretty fast and I did not see signs of fish during my visit, but it was still a relaxing place to explore.
Firewood was a mixed bag. There are plenty of fallen trees around, but much of it was surrounded by poison ivy, so gathering wood took a little caution. Bugs were present enough that I ended up using a head net in the evening, especially after dark.
For stargazing, the location was solid. I stayed up late and managed to catch three shooting stars. I brought a telescope but the angle of the sky from my setup made it harder to use than expected. If astronomy is your main goal, you may still want to head up to Cherry Springs proper for the best viewing experience.
Overall, this is a peaceful, simple campsite with good access to nature and a quiet atmosphere. Best suited for people who are okay disconnecting completely, enjoy creekside wandering and do not mind a more rustic experience. I would camp here again, especially for a quick getaway near Cherry Springs.
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.
GuideThis is a full service RV campground with nightly and seasonal stays. I was tent camping and, unlike most RV campgrounds, the dedicated tent area was very nice and right on the river. There’s a camp store, laundromat, showers and many different boats available for rent right in the campground. Very well run place and everything looked well kept.
The sites face a small mountain wall with the river at the base so very scenic. The river is fairly fast running so boating and swimming are for older kids/adults in this area or put in someplace calmer.
For those riding the MABDR, this is only 5 mins off the trail and a good place to relax before the final 70 miles through the PA Grand Canyon.
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
TravelerThis campground (now named "Orchard Station Campground" is under new management, and is open all year (I think). They are in the process of upgrading sites with new utility lines and level gravel pads.
Owner was very friendly & helpful.
Allowed me to charge my Rivian onsite (I paid him for the extra power).
Adjacent huge cemetery site is accessible via a goat path at the back of the campground and provided a great place to walk our dog every day.
We were attending the Alleghany Ukulele Soiree at the Altoona Grand Hotel, and this was a perfect spot (less than 5 minutes away).
Will definitely return!!
Camping near Frenchville, Pennsylvania offers diverse options within the Pennsylvania Wilds region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months and cooler nights even in summer. The region's sandstone geology creates varied terrain with stream-carved valleys throughout the camping areas.
Elk viewing opportunities: Located near Parker Dam State Park Campground, the elk herds provide memorable wildlife encounters. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal," reports one camper.
Water recreation: The streams and lakes support multiple activities at most campgrounds. "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat. Several picnic shelters are for rent if your looking for a place to have your reunion or annual company picnic," notes a visitor to Parker Dam.
Disc golf courses: Available at select recreation areas including Curwensville Lake Campground where a visitor shared, "Solo with my dog and my canoe. Had a great time I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so i played more game then fished."
Swimming spots: Natural swimming areas exist throughout the region. At Hicks Run, a camper noted, "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it! Also the river is just down on 555 with a kayak launch."
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote locations provide excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Sinnemahoning State Park Campground mentioned it was "a quiet sleep with dark skies for stargazing."
Educational facilities: Some campgrounds feature interpretive centers. "Adults and Children alike will love the park office/Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. Learn about this buildings green construction (LEED) geo thermal heat, rain water harvesting system, recycled materials and more!" writes one visitor.
Diverse site configurations: Campgrounds offer varied setups for different preferences. At Woodland Campground, a guest found "very nice park in a wooded setting. Hosts are very helpful, small store with essentials at a reasonable price. Sites are well spaced and gravel."
Peaceful surroundings: Many campgrounds provide quiet environments. "We stayed on a primitive site in our van, it was only for one night but we wished we'd booked more, the facilities are great and everyone is friendly. It feels homey," shared a Woodland Campground visitor.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. At Hicks Run, "You're down in a hollow, so not the best reception."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. For Hicks Run, a camper advised, "Sites reserved and it was booked solid for early trout season. I imagine same in the fall for elk viewing."
Variable amenity levels: Facilities range from basic to full-service. "The campground is very small, and cell service is non-existent, but that's what we were looking for - a quiet getaway," notes one Sinnemahoning visitor.
Navigation challenges: Some locations require careful navigation. For Hicks Run, a visitor warned, "When we were there last year there was a road closed sign on the left turn. If still there ignore it! The campground is before where the bridge is out!"
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs. At Black Moshannon State Park Campground, "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc."
Child-friendly water features: Various swimming areas cater to families. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," shares a Black Moshannon visitor.
Playground access: Select campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park. Spaces are clean and spacious, bath house is very well kept," reports another Black Moshannon camper.
Cabin alternatives: For families not tent camping, cabins provide comfort. "My family and I stayed here one night during a motorcycle trip. We rented 1 of the cabins they have on the property and it was great all of us fit comfortably we were able to have a campfire out front and sit at a picnic table."
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies across campgrounds. At Riverview Campsites, "Campsites were very large. Pulled our 23 ft and 32 ft campers sideways across the sites."
Limited full hookup availability: Some parks offer only partial hookups. "Parker Dam State Park has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available also. Nice clean sites," reports one RVer.
Varied access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. One camper at Black Moshannon advised, "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds close during winter months. At Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground, "A dingy place. The ground was swampy the only dry places are the gravel pads in the sites. I wouldn't tent camp here."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Frenchville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Frenchville, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 168 campgrounds and RV parks near Frenchville, PA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Frenchville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Frenchville, PA is Black Moshannon State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Frenchville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Frenchville, PA.
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