Tent camping opportunities near Girard, Pennsylvania include both established campgrounds and dispersed sites throughout northwestern Pennsylvania and nearby New York state. The region features a mix of forest and lakeside camping with sites located at elevations ranging from 600-1,200 feet. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though some primitive sites can be accessed year-round depending on snow conditions.
What to do
Creek exploration: Oil Creek State Park offers numerous swimming spots along the creek accessible via a 15-minute walk from Wolfkiel Run Shelters. According to camper Britt B., "It's a stunning walk with lots of small swimming spots along the way."
Wildlife watching: Lake Erie Bluffs provides opportunities to observe native birds and wildlife in their natural habitat. Jessica R. reports, "Able to watch Eagles soaring over Lake Erie listening to the waves hit the bluff below!"
Hiking network: The Gerard Hiking Trail connects to Wolfkiel Run Shelters and provides access to the broader trail system. Britt B. notes during winter camping that "The shelters are approx. 15min walk to the creek & Miller Farm Bridge, which joins the Oil Creek State Park trail."
What campers like
Privacy at walk-in sites: At Lake Erie Bluffs, tent sites are positioned away from main paths. As Jenna H. describes, "The site is enough away from the path that you have completely privacy. Really a super cool place to camp."
Shelter designs: The Adirondack-style shelters at Wolfkiel Run are constructed to maximize privacy while offering practical amenities. According to reviews, "The shelters are perfectly positioned to be private from one another, each looks out over the forest. They are a raised timber platform with a slanted roof and stone chimney with fireplace."
Complimentary firewood: Some established campgrounds provide wood as part of the camping fee. Jessica R. mentions that at Lake Erie Bluffs, "Provided firewood was great!" while Jenna H. confirms, "Fire wood and kindling were at the site waiting for us when we got there."
What you should know
Tick awareness: Insects can be prevalent, particularly at lakeside locations. Jenna H. warns about Lake Erie Bluffs, "We had two ticks on us relatively soon after getting there but didn't see any others all night. So be especially careful if you have pets!"
Dispersed camping conditions: Sites at Warner Road in North Harmony State Forest may have maintenance issues. Rose S. reports, "Kind of a gross site, the previous people who stayed at our site were messy and left litter, but it served its purpose as a free place to sleep along a longer trip."
Park event schedules: Check for special events that might affect your camping experience. One camper at Lake Erie Bluffs noted, "There was a firefly run that took place in the park starting at 8:45pm. It was a big event with music and tons of people that we could hear from our site."
Tips for camping with families
Campsite selection: When camping with children at Warner Road Dispersed Camping, be aware of potential restrictions. Denise D. cautions, "Clearly people are camping here at times but there are posted signs that say Day Use Only."
Winter shelter camping: For families wanting to camp outside summer months, Wolfkiel Run Shelters provide a good introduction to cold-weather camping. One reviewer explains, "These shelters are very peaceful in the winter and would highly recommend them if you are keen for some 'winter camping' but not keen to sleep in a tent or be completely exposed."
Swimming access: While camping at Lake Erie Bluffs doesn't provide direct water access from campsites, Jessica R. points out, "No direct access to water from sites but swimming areas and dog beach within the park!"
Tips from RVers
Big Oak Hill access: For RV campers considering Big Oak Hill, road conditions may require specific vehicles. Thomas B. advises, "The campsite is accessible by drive-in, but you may need a 4-wheel drive vehicle if there has been rain."
Compass Campgrounds amenities: RVers seeking established facilities should consider Compass Campgrounds which offers both tent and cabin options plus RV hookups. Jake C. notes, "Compass Campgrounds is more than a place to stay, they also have tons of trails so you can explore the area and search for local wildlife."
Off-season preparation: Tent campers using RV facilities during cooler months should bring extra supplies. At Wolfkiel Run Shelters, one visitor recommends, "It's wise to bring your own kindling, or an axe to cut some from the larger pieces."
