The Allegheny National Forest surrounding Kane, Pennsylvania features rolling wooded terrain with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet. Winter camping options remain limited, with Twin Lakes Recreation Area being one of the few year-round destinations. Summer nights typically cool to the 50s even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, creating comfortable camping conditions with moderate humidity compared to other Pennsylvania regions.
What to do
Hiking to Hector Falls: Located near Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite, the falls require a relatively short hike. "It's about 3/4 a mile hike into the woods. The falls are really cool to look at, and has some cool rock formations. Be careful the cliffs are about a 20 ft straight drop," notes Bob J., who visited the dispersed camping area.
Fly fishing for brook trout: Minister Creek Campground offers access to native brook trout. "Several of the sites back up to minister Creek. Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for," shares Brannon M. The stream provides excellent fishing opportunities directly from camp.
Winter activities: For those seeking cold-weather adventures, Twin Lakes stays open year-round. "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," explains Ian B. about winter car camping in the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Red Bridge Recreation Area receives praise for its site layout. "This is a beautiful campground. The sites are very spacious and mostly divided with brush," notes Kevin C., who adds that "The restrooms with showers were beautiful and the whole place was well kept."
Dark night skies for stargazing: The Minister Creek area offers exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," suggests Brannon M. about the campground's prime viewing conditions.
Old-growth forests: Many campers appreciate the mature trees throughout the camping areas. "Very nice campground with some huge old trees. Large sites, good privacy between, mostly full out partial shade. Trees for hammocks," writes Gary G. about his experience at Red Bridge Recreation Area.
What you should know
Bears are active: Multiple campgrounds report bear activity. "There's black bears that live in the several caves in the area. I was meditating in my car one evening and a bear stood up and pushed against my window. Definitely be sure to pack up all food and trash at night," warns Mystic S. from Forestry Road Dispersed.
Rocky terrain challenges: Tent campers should prepare for difficult ground conditions. Many sites have rocky soil that makes tent setup difficult without proper equipment.
Cell service varies widely: Reception depends heavily on location. At High Pines RV Park, one camper noted, "I managed to get an average of 3-4 bars of 5g every day" while Chapman State Park offers "zero cell reception" according to another reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Consider Chapman for amenities: Chapman State Park Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Very nice quiet family camp ground featuring tent, camper full hook ups. On sight dump station. Fishing boating, hiking family fun all around. Weather appropriate heated/cooled indoor real bathrooms and shower rooms," shares Michelle E.
Look for sites with playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. Katie notes about Dewdrop Recreation Area: "Fun little playground nearby too!" This provides entertainment options beyond hiking and water activities.
Check swimming conditions: Water access varies seasonally. "The beach is awesome and the facilities were good," reports Scott M. about Kiasutha Recreation Area, though water levels fluctuate throughout the season.
Tips from RVers
Call ahead about electrical service: Some campgrounds advertise hookups that may not be functional. "There are several RV sites that have the electrical boxes installed but supposedly never had the wires ran and so power is not available yet," warns Sam H. about Kiasutha Recreation Area.
Secure level sites early: At High Pines RV Park, RV sites are in demand. "We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites," notes Ryan P., who adds, "The owners are super nice and accommodating and it's near a lot of great attractions."
Watch for road conditions: Access roads can deteriorate after weather events. "The ruts from water flow need filled back in," observes Sam H. about the gravel roads in Kiasutha's RV section, a common condition throughout the region after heavy rains.
