Camping opportunities near Leeper, Pennsylvania center on the Allegheny National Forest region, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,300 feet and a climate featuring four distinct seasons. May through October represents prime camping season when temperatures average 65-80°F during days, dropping to 45-60°F at night. The Clarion River running through the region offers water activities at several campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterways: Clear Creek State Park Campground features multiple hiking trails including the Truby Trail. According to Sara, "Lots of space for long walks, and there are trailheads right at the campground if you want to get to explore. I took the dogs on the Truby Trail."
Fishing spots: Tionesta Rec. Area Campground provides access to excellent fishing opportunities. Brannon M. notes, "Sometimes I camp just so I can get close to flyfishing. Pennsylvania is home to some of the best wilderness trout streams that you're ever going to find. The area is just plain beautiful!"
Water recreation: The Allegheny Reservoir at Red Bridge Recreation Area offers water activities. Sheila P. explains, "Highlights include: the reservoir (beautiful and clean! You can swim with your dog from the access points at the campground)."
Wildlife viewing: Minister Creek Campground gives campers opportunities to view native wildlife. As Caitlyn H. experienced at Clear Creek State Park, "I will say that I did have two separate run in with bears but over all a great experience!"
What campers like
Quiet settings: Minister Creek Campground offers secluded sites that campers appreciate. Brannon M. says, "The smallest of all of the campgrounds in the Allegheny national Forest, this little slice of heaven is just perfect! With only six campsites, it's definitely 'first come, first served.'"
Swimming areas: Many glamping accommodations close to Leeper, Pennsylvania include swimming facilities. Mike T. reports about Clear Creek, "Clear creek is a nice quiet relaxing family camp place. Swimming was nice."
Spacious sites: Campers value the size of sites at Chapman State Park Campground. Kevin E. observed, "Sites were decently sized and some backed up to very beautiful evergreen forest."
Waterfront access: Many campgrounds offer sites near water. Lauren R. from Tionesta notes, "We had sites #46 and 48 right above the creek surrounded by tall trees. Incredibly quiet."
What you should know
Water and hookup access: Some sites have challenging utility access. At Kalyumet Campground, Ember M. advises, "Our only complaint would be the site we were in (11) and others next to it were quite far from the water and cable hookups. I ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable."
Off-season limitations: Two Mile Run County Park remains open year-round, but water services may be limited in colder months. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
Site terrain: Sites at some campgrounds may require leveling equipment. Isaac R. observes about Clear Creek State Park, "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by campground. Sara notes about Clear Creek, "None of the major carriers have service here, but I needed to 'get away' for the night so it was perfect."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Oil Creek Family Campground offers family-friendly facilities. Laura C. shares, "There's so much to do here--hiking, swimming, rafting, biking, disc golf, etc. There's also a really nice playground and a great little beach at the entrance of the campground."
Educational opportunities: Nature programs enhance family experiences. Laura C. adds, "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne--she is a wonderful teacher!"
Private sites for families: Selecting secluded sites reduces noise concerns. Bill G. reports at Clear Creek, "I got a lone site tucked half way up a hill, hidden under a dark canopy and at least 500 yards away from my nearest neighbors."
Water safety: Supervise children at water access points. Kerrie K. notes about Tionesta, "The current is strong," indicating parents should monitor water activities closely.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Red Bridge Recreation Area, Christine J. advises, "Some sites offer more shade than others. (We were at site #31 and it didn't have much shade.)"
Terrain challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven sites. Tim J. observes at Tionesta, "Reserved site 30, which was on a corner and entrance to the loop. The back of our camper was 15' from our neighbor's camper, so no real privacy."
Utility placement: Check hookup locations when booking. MickandKarla W. shares about Red Bridge, "The utilities were about 3/4 the way to the back of the site so no problems with sewer, water, or electric cord lengths."
Site dimensions: Large rigs need appropriate spaces. Britt B. recommends at Clear Creek, "The best powered-RV site is 39– private and waterfront."
