Best Campgrounds near Kittanning, PA
Campgrounds near Kittanning, Pennsylvania range from established facilities with full amenities to more primitive options along waterways. The area includes several mixed-use campgrounds like Crooked Creek Lake, which accommodates both tent and RV camping, and Mountain View Camps, which offers cabin rentals. Silver Canoe Campground, located in Rural Valley about 15 miles east of Kittanning, provides 100 sites for tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping options. Most campgrounds in the region feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water, with many offering electric hookups for RVs.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with several campgrounds operating only from spring through fall. Crooked Creek Lake is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, while others like Mountain Top Campground and Silver Canoe Campground remain open year-round. Many sites require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when waterfront locations fill quickly. The terrain varies from relatively flat developed campgrounds to more rugged areas along the region's waterways, including the Clarion River. Cell service can be limited in some locations, especially in more remote areas. According to one visitor, "The Clarion River is a crystal clear, shallow, rock bottom river perfect for a cool off, fishing or kayaking."
Campers report high satisfaction with sites that offer water access, with several reviewers highlighting the quality of fishing and paddling opportunities. The region's campgrounds provide varying levels of privacy, from more secluded wooded sites to open areas with community gathering spaces. Bathroom facilities range from modern shower houses to more basic vault toilets, with cleanliness generally rated positively by visitors. Several campgrounds feature playgrounds and recreational areas for families. A visitor noted that "Clear Creek runs through the campground and is a perfect spot for a BBQ or Picnic. It also has a designated swimming beach with sand." Noise levels vary significantly between campgrounds, with some reviewers mentioning that certain locations can become quite loud on holiday weekends, while others maintain a quieter atmosphere even during peak season.