Searching for the best camping near Irvine, PA? Irvine is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Irvine. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
Red Bridge Campground sits on the eastern shore of the Kinzua Arm of the Allegheny Reservoir in northwest Pennsylvania, offering a peaceful getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The campground offers swimming and bank fishing, with a boat launch nearby. For hikers, the North Country National Scenic Trail crosses SR 321 one-eighth of mile south of the campground. Over 4,000 miles long, the North Country National Scenic Trail stretches from New York to North Dakota. The Allegheny National Forest has nearly 100 miles of this trail between the New York state line and PA-66, maintained by volunteers from the Allegheny National Forest Chapter of the North Country Trail Association.
The Allegheny National Forest covers nearly half a million acres and is populated primarily with black cherry, maple and other hardwoods. The Kinzua Dam, built in 1965, impounds the Allegheny River to form the 25-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir. The campground is well wooded with mature black cherry, hemlock and birch trees. The grounds are off the Longhouse Scenic Byway, a 29-mile loop that circles the Kinzua Arm of the reservoir.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
Cancellations or changes must be made through Recreation.gov
$20 - $130 / night
$26 - $35 / night
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to__first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival__as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
$12 / night
Buckaloons Campground sits at the confluence of the Allegheny River, Brokenstraw Creek and Irvine Run in northwestern Pennsylvania. This 61-site campground offers access to the Allegheny Wild & Scenic River and opportunities for boating, fishing, wildlife watching, and relaxing in a quiet, country atmosphere.
Water activities are a big draw to Buckaloons Recreation Area, including canoing, kayaying, rafting, and boating. The boat ramp provides easy access to the river. Buckaloons is the beginning of the second designated National Wild and Scenic RIver segment of the Allegheny River. The first segment is from Kinzua Dam to the Route 6 Glade Bridge on the east side of Warren, PA. The second segment runs from Buckaloons campground to Alcorn Island just upstream of Oil City, PA, a distance of nearly 50 miles. In this segment are the 6 islands of the Allegheny Islands Wilderness as well as many other publicly and privately owned islands. Several public boat launches are located within this segment to help you decide on the length of trip that's right for you. The Allegheny is a "family-friendly" river, with little to no whitewater - perfect for beginners or a lazy day of floating. Hunting, fishing, and trapping are permitted in the areas around the campground, subject to rules of the Pennsylvania Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Fishing includes walleye, trout, and bass. There is also hiking along the Seneca Interpretive Trail within the campground or at nearby Anders Run Natural Area.
Once the site of an Indian trading post, the Buckaloons Recreation Center has numerous apple trees through the area, as well as mixed hardwoods. Water-loving species such as sycamore, willow, alder, silver maple, and butternut are frequent components of the riverine forest. Blue and green herons, bald eagles, egrets, and a variety of smaller birds can be seen along the Allegheny RIver. The Allegheny is classified as a warm-water fishery, but some cold-water species thrive as well. Freshwater mussels are abundant in species and number and indicate the high water quality of this river. Deer, bear, turkey, and squirrels are common, along with a variety of smaller mammals such as raccoon, opossum, and muskrat.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
$20 - $85 / night
Hearts Content Campground is a semi-primitive family campground bordering the Hickory Creek Wilderness Area and surrounded by native hardwoods and a patch of planted pine forest. There is a large open field and amphitheater that is suitable for other games near the campground entry, and another large field at the back of the campground that serves as both group camping sites and a helispot. Hearts Content Campground is operated under a concession permit by Allegheny Site Management.
Cross-country Ski Trail: This 6.4 mile (10.5 km) trail utilizes old railroad grades, roads and existing trails to form several loops for your skiing pleasure. The Wheeler Loop Trail goes through the campground and connects to the Tom's Run and Ironwood trails in the Hearts Content Scenic Area. These trails are marked with blue plastic diamonds on the trees. Hickory Creek Wilderness: The trailhead is located approximately 1/4 mile north of the campground entrance. This 8,663-acre area provides opportunities for solitude and a primitive and unconfined type of recreation as a refuge from our highly modified and technological world. No motorized equipment of any kind and no mechanical transports are permitted. A 13-mile loop hiking trail weaves its way through the rolling terrain, climbing in and out of the valleys. It is sparsely marked and maintained to promote a feeling of wildness and the unknown. It may not be suitable for novice hikers - please know your limitatons and do not add markings to help with way-finding. Orienteering Course: Enjoy this self-guided course that allows you or your group to follow, at your leisure. It is a permanently marked route as an introduction to the sport of orienteering. It starts in the Hearts Content Scenic Area.
North of the campground, Hearts Content National Scenic Area is located next to the picnic area across the road. Here stands the remnants of a 300 to 400 year old stand of white pine, hemlock, and beech. Time, insects, and disease are changing the look and nature of this stand. The Interpretive Old Growth Trail starts at the north end of the east side parking lot and winds about one mile through the timber stand before returning to the picnic area. All facilities in the day use area are universally accessible to people with disabilities. Facilities include a picnic area, pavilions, toilet and interpretive materials. South of the campground is Hickory Creek Wilderness, an 8,633 acre second-growth forest of dense trees and ferny undergrowth. This area is managed to let natural processes determine what it will be in the future. Wind, insects, disease, and drought are all shaping the species composition of the trees and understory, which will in turn determine what species of wildlife will inhabit this area. A roughly 13-mile trail traverses the plateau of the area, with the trailhead located approximately 1/4 of a mile north of the campground entrance. The trail is only occasionally marked and may not be suitable for novice hikers.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
Cancellations and changes must be made through Recreation.gov
$12 - $80 / night
Dewdrop Campground sits on the Kinzua Arm of the Allegheny Reservoir in northwest Pennsylvania, offering a popular getaway for boaters and families.
Water activities abound, including lake fishing, boating, and water skiing. A boat launch is available for convenient lake access for campers only. A 2.5 mile trail winds around the campground. Dewdrop is located on the Longhouse Scenic Drive, a winding loop around the Kinzua Arm of the reservoir that includes PA-59, PA-321, and Forest Road 262 (Longhouse Scenic Byway).
The Allegheny National Forest covers nearly half a million acres and is populated primarily with black cherry, maple and other hardwoods. The Kinzua Dam, built in 1965, impounds the Allegheny River to form the 25-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir. Dewdrop clings to the hillside above the water, providing a multi-level tiered campground.
The Kinzua Dam is a short drive to the west on PA-59. The Jakes Rocks Epic Mountain Bike Trail system connects to Dewdrop Campground and consists of trail loops built specifically for mountain biking on the mountain behind the campground. Hikers are also welcome on the trail but remember to keep an eye out for and give way to mountain bike riders. Kinzua Point Information Center is staffed by volunteers on most summer weekends and offers great views up the Allegheny Reservoir.
For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.
Cancellations or changes must be made through Recreation.gov
$20 - $100 / night
This rustic campground is located on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir just east of Elijah Run Boat Launch on Morrison Bay a branch off of Kinzua Bay of the Allegheny Reservoir. It is accessible by boat via the Allegheny Reservoir and/or the Morrison Hiking Trail. The closest boat launch is Elijah Run directly west of the campground (access from the Longhouse National Scenic Byway - Forest Road 262). Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Once on-site, there are fee envelopes with a pay tube availabe or you may be able to pay for your campsite(s) by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app, and the Scan and Pay feature. If this option is available, you will need to__first download the free Recreation.gov mobile app https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app prior to your arrival__as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service.
This rustic campground is located on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir just east of Elijah Run Boat Launch on Morrison Bay a branch off of Kinzua Bay of the Allegheny Reservoir.
$12 / night
Guide
Super peaceful. It was freezing, quite literally, with nights in the low teens. The melting and refreezing had made the roads and surrounding trails a little slippery so I would be cautious if traveling alone. I have stayed in the summer with my sons and it is better. Despite the cold and ice there were others out in it.
Scout
Cooks forest is absolutely gorgeous. I look forward to returning as there are a lot of hiking opportunities we missed. We stayed in the pet friendly area, which was nice. There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground. Our site was right next to a drinking water spigot and a path to the bath house. The sites near ours were in a wooded area, which felt more private than many of the other sites we saw. There was a fore pit and a picnic table. Our fire pit was behind where the camper was parked, which also felt more private. There is no alcohol permitted in PA state parks, so alcohol is prohibited in the campground as well. It was a great spot, and we look forward to returning.
Scout
Red Bridge is stunning and wonderfully maintained! Every time they drove by, site hosts would pull over and chat with you! I love watching movies and TV shows on my favorite app, Baixar Freecine Apk, and there were plenty of clean bathhouses with plenty of hot water.
Scout
This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area. Currently finish up the night and once the fire dies down I’ll head to bed. As some one has mentioned the only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum.
Guide
Beautiful State Park with friendly staff and campers. Windy, clean bathrooms w showers, flat sites. Sites on lake are not open - but sites across have good views as well. Lots more than just the campground
Ranger
Came in on a Sunday afternoon and nobody was there. Several hunters drove past but no other campers.
There is no vaulted toilet at this site any more. Repeated vandalism resulted in its closure.
Overall a nice secluded camping spot.
ScoutRed Bridge is beautiful and VERY WELL KEPT!! Site hosts were always driving around and would stop to talk with you! Numerous bathhouses were clean, and lots of hot water.
Guide
Has everything you need, amazing place to stay!
GuideWill become your go to campsite!
Traveler
We came for a quick visit and enjoyed a beautiful sunset and sunrise. Large spaces and easy access to the pier (ramps available for all to enjoy ) We would love to return and enjoy a much longer stay. FYI -several dump stations so no waiting!
Guide
Any worker over the age of 20 was super rude and they did NOT Re-Book Our Reservation For Next Year The Website sates that it is now being managed by a company called Oasis Marianas. There Are Signs Falling Apart And They Pool Was Water Orange! The Arcade was completely broken the showers were tiny and the entire place is in disrepair. The Gate was taken off the Opener And thrown into the weeds DISAPPOINTING And This Place was NOT CHEAP And Was Super RunDown.
Scout
Fun little campground with friendly staff and wide open spaces. Clean bathrooms, great pool, fun little game room. The playground got 2 thumbs up from a 4 and 6 year old. There was a movie night every night. Close to stores (15 mins). The KOA is close to Presque isle and the amusement park, which is a fantastic place for kids. Sites were a good size and comfortable to be around.
Scout
Happy to as soon as I get to stay
Legend
Although this is a KOA Holiday, we used it as a KOA Journey on our way to the Catskills. Not too far from the Interstate & there was no highway noise at the campground.
We arrived right at 5pm, which is when they close up, but Victoria went above & beyond & took us right to our site. Good thing, since we were at the back of a confusing layout.
There are sites in this section that have a partial view of the lake, but they looked like seasonal sites. All the sites looked well cared for. We had a pull through on Chestnut Drive. Y1
If you have kids, most of the activities they would be interested in are at the front entrance. If you don't have a golf cart, you may have to drive to the front for the pool, mini golf, basketball court & jumping pillow.
It doesn't look like they have many cabins.
There's another playground in the back that was getting used. There was supposed to be a splash pad, but I didn't see an evidence of that.
The bathroom/shower house are duel toilet/showers. Not my favorite, but we didn't have any trouble getting in.
We used the back exit on our way out, which was convenient. At least we didn't have to go back to the front entrance!
BTW, Victoria is a treasure! She's friendly & goes above& beyond for customer service. We really appreciated the time she took with us.
ScoutI have a 25-foot travel trailer and found several suitable spots on SF-160. Since it rains frequently here, keep your slip-on shoes handy near the door. This area offers great hiking and biking opportunities. The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time. Experience duck life right now!
Scout
What a beautiful campground with the sweetest owners, Jack and Debbie! Our 3 night stay was just not long enough. We will definitely be back! Shout out to Debbie for being highly instrumental in the creation of the High Pines App, which is absolutely amazing and chock full of useful information. Another shout out to both Jack & Debbie for warmly welcoming our South African Mastiff despite her intimidating size and appearance. We appreciated that we, the owners, would be judged. Not the dog and certainly not her breed. Thank you for a wonderful camping experience!
GuideIf you don’t mind roughing it a bit, it’s really quite nice. Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Which is a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me.
Scout
Campground is closed. Roads are a minefield! Park by the dam is nice and so are the trails across from the dam. Trails by the campground are very nice, once you get through the mine field to them.
Guide
The designated spots were easy to find. Spacious and clean.
Guide
Wolf's Camping Resort Is The Perfect Campground For Family's To Stay At With Its large Swimming Pool And It's Large Game room It is prefect for kids young and old! It has a large store with helpful employees and it sits on a large plot of land that includes a small mini golf corse and a full sized 18 hole golf course with many activities and themed weekends that you can find on their Facebook it is the perfect place to come!
RangerMany disbursed spots along the river over several miles. Size od camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road
We came in on a Saturday and found one of the road side sites open. Not much traffic and very friendly people in the area.
The river was basically brown like pudding the only signs of life were insects. While a very beautiful area, the river was king of yucky looking.
ScoutGOING LAST WEEK OF SEPTEMBER LOOKING TO GET SOME FISH FROM SHORE. HOPING FOR THE BEST! 5 STARS ON LOOKS ALONE.
Ranger
We came I to the area on a Monday and this camp was completely empty. We picked the biggest site next to the creek. The tree canopy over our site was dense enough that w3 did not get very wet when it rains.
This campground had several designated sites and most have a fire ring and picnic table.
There was a porti-poty on site that had plenty of paper was pretty clean.
We had a few hikers come through and one other camper that chose not to stay.
Guidenice little hideaway , it is however right across from where people have made a make shift shooting rang, which I thought to bea bonus.
Traveler
Like the other review, this site has a lot of litter. Clearly people are camping here at times but there are posted signs that say Day Use Only. It was quiet and dark.
ScoutWe went for a quick weekend trip with 3 people and 4 dogs. What a great spot! We were nice and secluded, which was great for the dogs to run around, be safe, and not bother other campers. It was relatively easy to find and the campsite is pretty close to Zoar Valley for a nice day trip! We will definitely be back :)
TravelerThe site was fine, fire pit, primitive spot so no services. We arrived late at night so couldn’t see so well but stopped in a clearing on the road toward the coordinates.
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.
Camping near Irvine, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping in Irvine, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Irvine, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Irvine, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 129 campgrounds and RV parks near Irvine, PA and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Irvine, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Irvine, PA is Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest with a 4.7-star rating from 24 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Irvine, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Irvine, PA.
What parks are near Irvine, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Irvine, PA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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