The Frenchville region of Pennsylvania offers camping options in the Allegheny Mountains, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet. The area contains part of the Moshannon State Forest and connects to the West Branch Susquehanna River watershed. Weather patterns include rainfall averaging 41 inches annually and winter snowfall that can impact seasonal campground access.
What to do
Kayaking launch points: Hicks Run Campground provides direct access to water recreation. "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," notes Amber W., who mentions an elk viewing plot located just across from the launch site.
Hiking trail access: Black Moshannon offers extensive trail networks directly from campground areas. "Tons of hiking along the whole park. Spaces are clean and spacious," reports Lisa L., who appreciated that the park runs classes for different outdoor activities including fly fishing and guided hikes.
Wildlife viewing: Fall months bring prime elk spotting opportunities in the region. "Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground," reports Danielle after staying at Hicks Run. The Benezette area contains multiple designated viewing areas where visitors frequently spot herds during September and October.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Riverview Campsites receives praise for generous camping spots. "Campsites were very large. Pulled our 23 ft and 32 ft campers sideways across the sites," explains Tyler R., who stayed at sites 36 and 37 with friends and found them spacious enough for multiple setups.
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds in the area see weekend crowds but remain peaceful midweek. "It was a wonderful place. Was there for a week. The weekend it was full, but during the week, there was just two of us," reports Danielle about her experience at Hicks Run, noting the tranquility on non-peak days.
Water features: The region's lakes and streams provide recreational opportunities. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," writes Matthew U. about Black Moshannon, while others note the distinctive color of the water bodies affected by natural iron deposits.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity remains challenging throughout much of the region. "No cell reception. Clean and very nice," notes Tyler R. about Riverview Campsites. Similar reports come from other campgrounds in the area's valleys and remote locations.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. regarding Black Moshannon, with Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends typically booked months in advance.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds require careful route planning. "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road," warns Sandi G., highlighting the importance of researching access routes before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation for children. "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it!" shares Amber W. about Hicks Run, providing a natural alternative to pool facilities that many area campgrounds lack.
On-site activities: Some rv parks near Frenchville provide recreational facilities. "They have a game room that offers free games for the kids along with a playground and basketball court," explains Nick O. about High Pines RV Park, offering options for entertainment during inclement weather.
Cabin alternatives: Families without camping gear can utilize rental accommodations. "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," reports Danielle W. about her family's motorcycle trip stay at Black Moshannon.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds in Frenchville, Pennsylvania camping areas have sloped sites requiring adjustment. "Sites are sloped a bit as most are in the mountains. We were able to decently level our motorhome with blocks," reports Clean Slate D. about their stay at The Bellefonte Campground.
Power considerations: Electrical service varies between campgrounds in the region. "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. Looks like some updates are on the way. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A," advises Nick O. about High Pines, suggesting campers with high electrical needs should verify hookup specifications before booking.
Seasonal planning: Fall and spring offer more comfortable camping temperatures for RVers. "We went for fall activities in the area," explains Nick O., noting that lack of 50-amp service makes summer heat challenging at some campgrounds without adequate power for air conditioning units.
