Campsites near Greenville, Pennsylvania offer outdoor experiences approximately 70-90 miles from major urban centers in northwestern Pennsylvania. The region sits at elevations between 1,000-1,600 feet, resulting in cooler summer temperatures compared to surrounding lowland areas. Most camping options in this area feature wooded environments with access to small lakes or reservoirs that support fishing and non-motorized boating activities.
What to do
Disc golf access: Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area features an on-site disc golf course. "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. The dog swimming area was pretty cool," reports one visitor to Curwensville Lake Campground.
Elk viewing excursions: Parker Dam State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for wildlife watching trips. Located about 30-40 minutes from Benezette's elk viewing areas, it allows campers to observe Pennsylvania's elk population. "Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!" shares a camper at Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Small lake recreation: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers a unique water experience on its 250-acre lake. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Beautiful facility- typical Pa mountains, abundant green trees, water...nice Campground AND cabin rentals are really nicely situated. Water was thick with weeds & lilies but ok nonetheless."
What campers like
Accessible fishing spots: Woodland Campground provides a catch-and-release pond directly on property. "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. Nice fishing pond (catch and release)," reports a reviewer at Woodland Campground.
Private pet areas: Designated dog spaces enhance the camping experience for pet owners. A visitor at Curwensville Lake Campground mentions, "The dog swimming area was pretty cool. I'll be back." Another camper praises the pet-friendly atmosphere at Prince Gallitzin State Park: "As a rule we always try to stay in parks if possible. Really like the layout here, and the k9s love it."
Multi-use trail systems: Prince Gallitzin State Park Crooked Run Campground offers extensive trail options. "So many trails so little time. Friendly crew, helpful staff," notes one visitor. Another camper adds, "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event."
What you should know
Varying cell service reliability: Connectivity varies significantly between campsites near Greenville. At Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground, a visitor reports "Strong AT&T and T-Mobile cell signals," while others mention limited service at different campgrounds. Remember that mountainous terrain can create service dead zones.
Limited shower facilities: Not all campgrounds provide shower facilities. A visitor to Simon B. Elliott notes, "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. The park is a wonderful place to go for walks as they have fields, forested areas, gravel roads and paved roads."
Site selection importance: Research campsite locations before booking. At Parker Dam State Park, one camper advises, "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving." Similarly, at Simon B. Elliott, a visitor shared, "We stayed in site 6. It was a very small site and had no established spot to put our tent so we actually had to encroach on site 7."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Select sites near recreational facilities for convenient child entertainment. At DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA, a visitor mentions, "Our kiddo loved playing at the playground right by our campsite. Clean campground, clean bathrooms, no privacy but not right on top of each other."
BMX track access: Prince Gallitzin State Park offers unique recreational opportunities. One camper shares, "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids."
Age-appropriate programs: Many state parks provide organized activities. At Black Moshannon State Park, a visitor notes, "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," making it ideal for families wanting structured activities.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and privacy: Woodland Campground accommodates larger RVs with spacious sites. "The sights are spacious and can accommodate large rigs. There are back-in and pull-thru sites with FHU 30/50 amp," reports one RVer.
Big rig accessibility: DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA provides designated areas for larger vehicles. "This KOA is way back in the woods. Love it. Rock sites mostly level. Most sites are huge. Dog run is ok and have to walk a good was to the trash bin depending on campsite. Will be back. Some sites have concrete patio which I do recommend," shares a visitor.
Full hookup locations: Parker Dam State Park offers complete utility connections. "Love it here! This is a great State Park. The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available also. Nice clean sites," reports one camper, providing useful information for self-contained camping.
