Dispersed camping near Kennerdell, Pennsylvania provides off-grid opportunities throughout the Allegheny National Forest, where the terrain consists primarily of rolling hills covered with second-growth hardwood forest at elevations between 1,300-1,600 feet. Winter camping requires proper cold weather gear as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with snow accumulation common. Summer nights remain cool, with temperatures typically dropping into the 50s even during July and August.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: Several primitive campsites offer excellent bird watching, particularly along forest service roads. Campers at Millstone Creek Campground report seeing a variety of wildlife. "While a very beautiful area, the river was kind of yucky looking," notes Kevin C., who still enjoyed the riverside camping despite water conditions.
Shooting activities: Some dispersed areas are near informal target shooting locations. At FR437 dispersed campsite, one camper found this an unexpected bonus, noting it is "right across from where people have made a makeshift shooting range, which I thought to be a bonus."
Water activities: The Clarion River provides opportunities for kayaking and fishing during summer months. River access varies by campsite location. According to one visitor at Clarion River Campground, "We had direct River access! Quite road - We were able to walk. There were some people kayaking in the river."
What campers like
Natural shelter and mature trees: The established forest canopy throughout the area provides natural shade and wind protection. One camper at Millstone Creek Campground appreciated the "mature forest canopy" but cautioned to "always look for widow makers above because some of the trees seem to be diseased."
Varied campsite options: Dispersed sites range from roadside pull-offs to more secluded spots deeper in the forest. According to Kevin C., Millstone Creek offers "many disbursed spots along the river over several miles. Size of camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road."
Weather experiences: The forest setting creates unique camping atmospheres even during adverse weather. At Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, one camper shared, "We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"
What you should know
Site availability considerations: Popular dispersed camping areas fill quickly during peak seasons. At Clarion River Campground, one reviewer cautioned, "Busy spot. There are various large sized spots on both sides of the road. We were lucky to snag a spot on the side of the river with our RV."
Road conditions vary: Forest service roads throughout the Allegheny National Forest range from well-maintained to rough depending on recent maintenance and weather. Scott K. who camped near Loleta Road noted, "all the roads in the forest are drivable gravel with many pull off spots for camping!"
Seasonal mud issues: Early spring camping often means dealing with wet ground conditions. Anne W. described Loleta Road as "extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else."
Tips for camping with families
First-time dispersed camping: Beginners to primitive camping should choose sites with easier access. At Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, Todd H. shared, "This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which is why I chose this area."
Advance preparation essential: With no facilities available, family camping requires thorough planning and supplies. One camper at Clarion River Campground encountered disappointing site conditions, noting, "There were chicken carcasses and popcorn, eggs, and a bag of food in a fire ring."
Information resource location: Check the information station on River Road for campsite locations. As Dani T. advises, "On the billboard you'll find a map of the designated camp spots along both River Rd and Millstone. Take a picture of it. There's no reception here but that's how you know it's a nice area!"
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites near Kennerdell accommodate only small to medium recreational vehicles. At Salmon Creek Dispersed, Scott C. warns, "The road is out tho so dont take a big rig."
Level parking considerations: Scout for proper parking surfaces before committing to a site. Tim S. found at Millstone Creek a "hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road" which worked well for vehicle-based camping.
Privacy variations: Road proximity affects campsite seclusion. Derek O. at Loleta Road Dispersed appreciated more remote options, noting "I pulled off about a half mile past the noted google maps pinpoint. Great time for the dogs and I."
