Prince Gallitzin State Park region sits in the Allegheny Mountains at approximately 1,600-1,700 feet elevation, creating cooler camping conditions than surrounding lower areas. The area's climate offers warm summer days typically ranging from 70-85°F, with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 50s even during peak season. Campsites near Flinton, Pennsylvania provide access to Glendale Lake's 26 miles of shoreline with multiple boat launches and fishing access points.
What to do
Disc golf opportunities: Curwensville Lake Campground features an on-site course that attracts both casual and serious players. "I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so i played more game then fished," notes camper Daniel S., who discovered this amenity during a spring visit.
BMX track for young riders: Children visiting Crooked Run Campground can enjoy the dedicated BMX track. "Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids," mentions Jackie W., highlighting this unique recreational option not found at many campgrounds.
Hiking trail variety: The region offers both easy and more challenging hiking options. "Very nice state park in PA. Huge lake for water sports, scenic trails, small dirt bike oval track," explains Judy H. about Prince Gallitzin State Park. For more extensive hiking, the Allegrippis Trails near Seven Points provide miles of maintained pathways.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds organize structured activities. Nicole F. describes her experience at Crooked Run: "Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls," referring to a Girl Scout weekend. Programs often focus on nature education and outdoor skills.
What campers like
Clean, accessible bathhouses: Campers consistently mention well-maintained facilities. "The bathhouse was clean and well maintained," explains Nicole F. about Crooked Run Campground. Bathroom cleanliness ranks as a top consideration for many visitors selecting a campsite near Flinton.
Fishing access: Seven Points Campground receives praise for its fishing opportunities. "Large public swimming are at the lake below along with fishing and boating on the huge lake," reports Travis S. Both shore fishing and boat fishing are available, with many sites offering proximity to fishing spots.
Variety of water recreation: Lakes throughout the region support diverse activities. Bob W. notes about Crooked Run Campground: "It's a very nice place to camp, people are friendly, boating-fishing-swimming-hiking. Something to do for everyone." Many campgrounds rent boats, kayaks and canoes during the main season.
Seclusion options: While some campgrounds offer social camping, others provide more isolated experiences. One camper at Ridge Top Retreat appreciated the privacy found at this single-site accommodation option north of Prince Gallitzin, ideal for those seeking complete seclusion.
What you should know
Campsite elevation variations: Many campgrounds in the region feature significant terrain changes. At Black Moshannon State Park, "Sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there,'" according to Sandi G., though she cautions: "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road."
Reservation timing: The most desirable sites book quickly, particularly waterfront options. "We wanted a waterfront site but even trying to reserve the first day we could for this weekend, they were all taken," explains Laure D. about Seven Points campground. Reservations open 11 months in advance for Pennsylvania state parks.
Water color variations: Black Moshannon State Park features uniquely colored water. "Red Mo... The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals," explains Travis S. This coloration is natural and does not impact water safety.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. Black Moshannon State Park's season runs "2nd Friday April to December 15," while Crooked Run at Prince Gallitzin operates from "2nd Fri April to last Mon October," requiring off-season camping alternatives.
Tips for camping with families
Look for group campsites: Larger family gatherings benefit from dedicated group areas. Nicole F. reports about Crooked Run: "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend... The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers."
Consider proximity to swimming beaches: Families with children often prioritize swimming access. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals," explains Jackie W., highlighting the dedicated swimming areas at Prince Gallitzin.
Find campgrounds with playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. At Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area, one camper noted, "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."
Pet-friendly loops: Many families camp with pets. "We stayed in one of the pet-friendly loops of the park," mentions a camper at Prince Gallitzin State Park. Several campgrounds designate specific pet-friendly sections, though rules regarding leashes and barking are strictly enforced.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many older campgrounds have limited space. Mark S. advises about Crooked Run Campground: "All sites are paved as are the roads... Some sites are larger than others. Have been camping here since it first opened and never had an awful experience."
Offroading opportunities: For those with appropriate vehicles, Clayworks campground offers direct trail access. "It's convenient to ride right from your camper. They also have several other campgrounds in the park that don't have any hookups but would be nice to tent or camp with a genny," explains Jason.
Leveling considerations: Given the mountainous terrain, level sites are highly valued. One camper reports about Seven Points: "We pulled into Ridge Camp and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us."
Dump station facilities: Multiple-lane dump stations at larger campgrounds reduce departure delays. At Seven Points, "The dump station had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," notes Tim J., an important consideration for RVers planning departure timing.
