Moraine State Park offers limited camping options despite being a major outdoor recreation destination in western Pennsylvania. The park primarily focuses on day-use activities centered around Lake Arthur, with restricted overnight accommodations that require advance planning. Visitors seeking horse campgrounds near Ford City, Pennsylvania will need to look beyond Moraine's boundaries, as equestrian camping facilities are not available within the park itself.
What to do
Backpacking on North Country Trail: Hikers can access primitive camping via the North Country National Scenic Trail running through Moraine State Park. "There are three shelters which are all very mouse infested. I believe this is because the site does not have a bear pole or bear box, so I think most people probably don't hang their food like they should," notes Matt R. about the Moraine State Park shelter sites.
Paddling excursions: Danner Primitive Campground offers paddle-in access with riverside sites. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge. There are 8 sites spread out along the edge of the river, some being closer together than others," explains Casey L. about Danner Campground.
Winter recreation: When summer crowds disperse, Moraine transforms for cold-weather activities. "Moraine State Park is beautiful. It offers many camping styles including Group Tenting, Adirondack shelters for backpacking, and Cabins," says Mitchel R., who also mentions the park's "Snowmobile Trail" as a winter attraction.
What campers like
Quiet, undeveloped settings: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of primitive sites. "It was very quiet and secluded feeling, yet not far from the restrooms, bike trail, water/fishing area," says Alice M. about her experience at Moraine's group tent camping area.
Multi-use trails: The extensive trail network receives consistent praise from visitors. "This park has an awesome trail system for walking or biking," notes Jim L. about Moraine State Park, making it popular for day-use recreation even without standard campground facilities.
Remote campgrounds with amenities: Some primitive sites offer unexpected conveniences. At Danner Campground, "They are level and clear, each with a new picnic table and nice fire rings with adjustable grates. A few of the sites had stairs to the water for paddler access," according to Casey L., who adds that "There are vault toilets that were clean and well maintained, with hand sanitizer."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Standard camping is prohibited at Moraine. "Camping is prohibited in the park. Private campgrounds nearby offer camping," explains Greg K., who clarifies the exception: "The one exception is along the North Country Trail, there are 2 rustic shelters that must be reserved through the park office."
Water access challenges: Plan for water needs carefully when backpacking. At Moraine's shelter sites, there's "a rustic vault toilet but no water at the site. I asked the lady at the park office if there was water nearby and she said yes, just hike down to the access road and over to the group tenting site to fillup. I'll tell you, this is not close - easily a 2-3 mile round trip," warns Matt R.
Group camping restrictions: The park's group sites have specific qualification requirements. "In order to see if your group qualifies to use the group tenting area, go to this website," advises Brian S. about Starr Farm, explaining that Moraine's limited camping options are carefully managed.
Tips for camping with families
Check nearby private options: When traveling with children, consider commercial campgrounds with more amenities. "Lots of activities, tons of nearby attractions, fishing, hunting, and hiking. Great store and owners, a nice place to visit," says Michael L. about Big Country Campground, which offers family-friendly amenities not found in state park primitive sites.
Consider cabin alternatives: Rustic cabins provide shelter for families not equipped for tent camping. "Moraine State Park is beautiful. It offers many camping styles including Group Tenting, Adirondack shelters for backpacking, and Cabins," notes Mitchel R., highlighting alternative lodging when standard campgrounds aren't available.
Equestrian options: Horse campgrounds near Ford City, Pennsylvania are limited but available at private facilities surrounding Moraine. The equestrian camping options typically require advance reservations and offer basic amenities for horses and riders exploring the region's trail systems.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Large RVs face limitations in the region's campgrounds. While Moraine doesn't accommodate RVs, Big Country Campground is "big-rig friendly" and offers "electric-hookups" and "sewer-hookups" according to their amenity listings.
Alternative boondocking: Self-contained RVs may find options on surrounding public lands. "This campsite was close to an archery tournament for me. It is a huge campsite that is remote and peaceful," mentions Daniel about his stay at Starr Farm, suggesting that some less developed sites can accommodate certain RVs despite limited amenities.
Seasonal considerations: RV campers should note access limitations. Most equestrian campgrounds near Ford City operate seasonally, with many private facilities closing during winter months. Big Country Campground lists its season as "April 15 to December 15," making advance planning essential for RVers seeking facilities with hookups.
