Tent camping near Kennerdell, Pennsylvania offers opportunities within Allegheny National Forest and surrounding state forests at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,600 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F, while spring and fall can bring significant temperature variations. Most dispersed sites in the area sit on hard-packed soil or rocky terrain requiring tent stakes designed for challenging ground conditions.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Several camping areas provide direct connection to trail networks. At Wolfkiel Run Shelters, campers can reach Oil Creek State Park trails with "a stunning walk with lots of small swimming spots along the way," according to visitor Britt B. The trail from shelters to Miller Farm Bridge takes approximately 15 minutes.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer access to regional waterways. French Creek Flood Plain Overlook provides a single campsite with views of French Creek, a waterway known for smallmouth bass, northern pike, and muskie. The site includes a picnic table and fire ring.
Winter camping: For cold-weather enthusiasts, some tent camping locations remain accessible year-round. Wolfkiel Run Shelters maintains winter access, though "the road in was snow covered but easily navigated," reports one visitor. The Adirondack-style shelters provide protection from elements with "hooks that allow you to hang a tarpaulin to help keep the heat in."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite being established campgrounds, many locations offer secluded spots. At Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, campers appreciate that sites are "close enough to the road to feel safe but far enough away to have privacy," as one reviewer noted. Another mentioned pulling off "about a half mile past the noted google maps pinpoint" for additional seclusion.
Rustic amenities: Basic facilities enhance the primitive camping experience without overcomplicating it. Quiet and Secluded provides clean toilets and 30-amp electrical hookups at their seven tent sites. One visitor noted it as a "beautiful spot" with "clean amenities."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. Richard C. at Mountain View Camps mentioned that campers might "even see an albino fawn" and can "explore the ruins on the game lands" near the campground's three tent sites.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Spring brings challenging conditions at many tent sites in the Kennerdell area. Anne W. described Loleta Road Dispersed as "extremely muddy" in March, noting it was "not bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else."
Roadside visibility: Without full foliage, some campsites lose privacy during shoulder seasons. One camper mentioned that at Loleta Road when camping in March, "there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us)."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. No drinking water is available at many locations, including Cow Run Shelters, which does offer toilets and picnic tables but requires hikers to bring all water supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Island camping adventure: For a unique experience with children, Private Island w/ Paddle Moor Co. offers accessible tent sites. Jessica Z. reported the island has "cleared trails to get to the campsite which seem to be maintained very well" and mentioned that "when it was dark (pitch black) you could see all the fireflies" which created "a show in itself."
Tree farm camping: Pioneer Trails Tree Farm provides an educational environment for family camping. Andrew O. noted, "The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids," though he cautioned that toilet facilities were not conveniently located, stating he "only wish toilet access was a little closer for the women."
Shelter camping: The Adirondack shelters at various locations provide a compromise between tent camping and cabin amenities. Wolfkiel Run shelters feature "a raised timber platform with a slanted roof and stone chimney with fireplace," large enough to "sleep 4 people in sleeping bags or set up a two person tent."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access limitations: Most tent camping sites near Kennerdell have restricted vehicle access. When tent camping, expect to park and walk to many sites. Todd H. noted that Loleta Road Dispersed was chosen specifically because he "was able to drive in which is why I chose this area."
Road conditions: Forest roads leading to dispersed camping can vary seasonally. Scott K. found that "all the roads in the forest are drivable gravel with many pull off spots for camping," but winter and early spring visits may require vehicles with adequate clearance and possibly four-wheel drive.
Parking space considerations: Even at drive-up sites, parking may be limited. The shelter car park at Wolfkiel Run is described as "small and was almost full the day we arrived," suggesting weekday arrival for better parking options during peak seasons.
