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.
What to Do
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."
What Campers Like
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.
What You Should Know
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!"
Tips for Camping with Families
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."
Tips from RVers
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."
