Camping near St. Marys, Pennsylvania offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet throughout the Allegheny Plateau region. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation, with particularly high humidity during summer months. Most sites near St. Marys require advanced planning for summer weekends when temperatures typically range from 55-85°F.
What to do
Elk viewing opportunities: In the Benezette area, approximately 25 minutes from St. Marys, visitors can spot Pennsylvania's wild elk population. According to one camper at Parker Dam State Park Campground, "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal. During the eight months the timber rattler is a common site along the roads and in the trails. Keep your eyes open and respect them."
Water recreation access: Kayaking, canoeing and swimming options exist at multiple locations within 30 minutes of St. Marys. At Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins, campers note the Clarion River access points. One visitor mentioned, "The Clarion river leads through the base of the camp at the bottom of the hill, and kayak and canoe rentals are available everywhere. The river is slow and serene, perfect for families."
Hiking trail networks: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the area, ranging from short accessible loops to more challenging paths. A camper at Twin Lakes Recreation Area mentioned, "There is a nice loop of well maintained trails that connects to even more expansive trails (I think going all the way out to Cooks Forest...too ambitious for me) that we enjoyed walking."
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Trout fishing is particularly productive in streams and reservoirs throughout the region. One reviewer at Red Bridge Recreation Area noted, "Nice location near the water. The reservoir is murky and had oil film from all the motor boats. Not good swimming." Despite swimming limitations, fishing remains popular.
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites with natural barriers. A camper at Clarion Heights described it as "One of the most beautiful camping spots we've ever had. Complete with a fire pit & wood available, pavilion with an upstairs lounge and all kinds of sports utilities like golf clubs, frisbees, volleyball & tether ball setup."
Wildlife encounters: Beyond elk, the region hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Parker Dam State Park Campground, one visitor shared, "Deer came up to campsite every morning. Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by location and provider. A visitor to Medix Run Camping Area reported, "You're down in a hollow, so not the best reception. Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground." Planning ahead with offline maps is recommended.
Water availability issues: Several campgrounds have reported water system problems. At East Branch Campground, a recent camper noted, "Currently issues with potable water; must bring your own." Twin Lakes has also experienced water issues: "Unfortunately, nearby gas drilling has made the drinking water unsafe."
Reservations essential: Most established sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. For Cook Forest State Park, one reviewer advised, "This is our 12th Memorial Weekend spent at this campground in the rolling green mountains of Cook Forest. You'd do best to book 8-9, yes, 8-9 months out for this particular weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly water activities: Several locations offer gentle water experiences suitable for children. A visitor to Cook Forest State Park noted, "The river is slow and serene, perfect for families. There's various park/BBQ spots near the creek and guided hikes during the day out of the ranger station."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Parker Dam State Park received this feedback: "Great place for the entire family. Great hiking trails, the beach is great for kids, good fishing, and close to the Benezette Elk Viewing Area."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs run throughout summer at several parks. At Cook Forest State Park, one camper described, "Each Memorial Saturday, a meet and greet is recreated with an American historical figure. Good fun for all."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have varying degrees of levelness and size. At Red Bridge Recreation Area, a camper advised, "Nice sites good spacing. Large sites, good privacy between, mostly full out partial shade."
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary widely between campgrounds. An RVer at Parker Dam State Park noted, "The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available also. Nice clean sites." Twin Lakes campers mentioned, "There are 50 campsites, which 23 have 20 and 30 amp electrical service."
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Regarding Red Mill Pond, one camper warned, "Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes." Another visitor to Twin Lakes advised, "If you've got a tall trailer, be sure to check the Twin Lakes page on the ANF website; there's a way in, but it's not all that easy to find."
