Rv campgrounds near Karthaus, Pennsylvania range from primitive sites to full-service parks throughout the northern sections of Centre, Clinton, and Clearfield counties. The region sits within Pennsylvania's Allegheny Plateau, where elevations typically range between 1,200-2,000 feet. Winter camping options are limited as most facilities close by mid-December, with only a few parks offering year-round RV accommodations.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Access Bald Eagle Lake through the tunnel near the primitive camping area at Bald Eagle State Park, which features warm, calm waters. "The lake is huge with a beautiful beach to spread out on and play in the sand! We kayaked and biked all over the park. We also fished a lot. Due to the large size of the lake we didn't feel like we were on top of other people fishing," explains one visitor.
Hiking trails: Several marked trails start directly from campgrounds. At Black Moshannon State Park, trails wind through forests and near the 250-acre lake. "Great camping area stop a mountain...nice unique lake that is incredibly dark in color. Lilly pads abound with great flowers," notes a camper. The park offers "plenty of hiking along the whole park" with trails suitable for various difficulty levels.
Wildlife viewing: Visit the elk viewing areas near Benezette. At Hicks Run Campground, campers report regular wildlife sightings. "Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground. It was nice," shares one reviewer. Another mentions, "An elk viewing plot is just across from the kayak launch site/parking lot. Not far from Benezette."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers prefer the more private tent-only areas. At Bald Eagle State Park, "The rustic campground has some parking sites, but we are most fond of the sites with a short walk in. Usually they're very private." Primitive camping areas generally offer more space between sites and natural settings.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain excellent washrooms and amenities. The Bellefonte-State College KOA receives consistent praise for its facilities. "The individual bathroom/showers were great & clean. Office facilities & firewood access were also nice," reports one visitor. Another notes they're "hotel quality and clean" with great water pressure.
Family-friendly activities: Campgrounds offer various recreation options for children. "This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park. The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc.," explains a Black Moshannon State Park visitor. The Bellefonte KOA features a "bouncy pillow, gem mining, pool" and other amenities specifically for families.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have poor connectivity. At Hicks Run, "You're down in a hollow, so not the best reception." Prepare for minimal communication options throughout your stay.
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campgrounds are built on hillsides, requiring leveling equipment. At Bellefonte-State College KOA, "Make sure you have leveling tools as the sites are not very level side-to-side. The sites are also small and tightly packed."
Water conditions: The water at Black Moshannon has distinctive coloring. "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 a camper. This coloration is natural and doesn't affect recreational activities.
Reservation requirements: During prime seasons, campsites fill quickly. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises a Black Moshannon visitor. Football weekends at Penn State create additional demand.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Riverview Campsites and other parks offer designated swimming areas. At Hicks Run, "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it!" The beach at Bald Eagle State Park is popular but "not easily walkable from the campground, 3 mile walk on a muddy overgrown path."
Educational activities: Many parks offer ranger-led programs. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc.," notes a Black Moshannon visitor. Check with park offices for current schedules.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Bellefonte-State College KOA, families appreciate the "nice play ground, bouncy pillow, gem mining, pool, etc." Sites near playgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends.
Animal interactions: Some campgrounds feature small farm animals. The Bellefonte Campground has "some animals, like goats, as well in a little farm area" which children enjoy visiting between other activities.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. "We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road," advises a Black Moshannon visitor. RVers should research specific approach routes before arrival.
Premium sites availability: The Bellefonte Campground offers upgraded RV spots. "New owners are super friendly. It's an older park they look to be putting some love and work into. Sites are sloped a bit as most are in the mountains. We were able to decently level our motorhome with blocks."
Hookup variations: Water pressure differs between parks. "Water pressure was 18psi," notes a Bellefonte KOA camper, while others mention adequate utilities at most established campgrounds. RVers should bring pressure regulators and be prepared for variations.
Site privacy considerations: The most secluded RV sites are often in primitive camping areas. "Stayed in Primitive Area with RV which is MUCH QUIETER & MUCH MORE PRIVATE with many trees than the full hookups down in the main park area." These sites typically offer fewer amenities but more natural surroundings.
