Primitive camping options abound near Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, with many sites located within the 513,000-acre Allegheny National Forest. Situated in northwestern Pennsylvania at an elevation of approximately 1,900 feet, the region features forested hillsides and access to the Allegheny Reservoir. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-80°F, while fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage displays.
What to do
Waterfront activities at Willow Bay: Access the Allegheny Reservoir directly from Willow Bay Recreation Area, where "the water is a great amenity and you can rent canoes and kayaks!!" Many campers appreciate the direct water access, with one noting their "site was right along the water. We have sites 76,77,78."
Hiking trails near Morrison: Morrison Campground offers access to multiple trail systems. "Great hiking trails and good fishing. Abundant wildlife including Bears and Bald eagles," reports one visitor. The campground requires either a boat or hike-in access, with one camper noting it's "definitely worth the 3 hours hike from nearest car parking."
Forest exploration at Allegany State Park: Just across the New York border, Quaker Area — Allegany State Park provides extensive hiking opportunities. "We camped here with one of our children, and hiked a couple of trails, that were beautiful!" Many campers note the park's size, requiring significant travel time between attractions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Kiasutha, campers appreciate the space between sites. "Sites are well spaced and most have plenty of trees in between," notes one review. Another adds that "the campsites are not on top of each other and are separated by plenty of trees and brush."
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location of Kiasutha creates ideal conditions for night sky viewing. One camper reports it was the "First place I was ever able to actually see the milky way. Night sky's are so clear."
Clean facilities: Visitors to Twin Lakes Recreation Area consistently mention the upkeep of the campground. A camper noted "sites are relatively private and they have been nicely fixed up with crushed stone pads and beautiful new fire pits." Another adds, "Camp hosts are friendly and helpful."
What you should know
Limited or no cellular service: Many campsites in the area have minimal connectivity. At Willow Bay, one camper reports, "There is no service there so make sure everyone is on the same page." Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information in advance.
Bears are common: Take proper precautions with food storage throughout the region. A Morrison Campground visitor notes: "It is bear territory so brought a bear cannister, but I didn't hear of anyone having any issues."
Seasonal water availability: Some campgrounds have limited or no water services. At Twin Lakes Recreation Area, a recent visitor noted: "there were no amenities when we stayed - no bath houses, no toilets, no water to fill up our rig with, no sanitary dump station."
Primitive camping requirements: Bring adequate supplies for backcountry sites. For Morrison Campground, one visitor advises: "Bring plenty of water and bug spray. Depending on the wind direction, the stable flies can get pretty bad."
Tips for camping with families
Game room access: High Pines RV Park offers indoor recreation options for children. "They do have a game room that offers free games for the kids along with a playground and basketball court," reports one family.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas. Kiasutha has a "large beach area for swimming" according to visitor reports, making it suitable for families with children of various ages.
Kid-friendly cabin options: For families not interested in tent camping, cabins provide comfortable alternatives. A visitor to Allegany State Park's Red House Area says, "Cabins are pretty large and have some great surrounding areas, like creeks right next to the cabins. Great place for family camping with tons of different activities offered around the park."
Weekday visits recommended: For quieter family experiences, avoid peak times. One Morrison camper advises: "This is a great place to camp except on holidays and weekends. It can get quite packed. If you want a spot for the weekend in summer show up Thursday."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: At many rv parks in Lewis Run, Pennsylvania area, uneven sites require preparation. At Willow Bay, one RVer notes their site "slopes in the front and at the back. A couple of extra tongue blocks would've been useful."
Electric service varies: Different loops offer different electrical capabilities. One visitor to Kinzua East KOA notes that while full hookups are available, sites may be close together with "little privacy." At High Pines RV Park, a camper points out: "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way... We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A."
Dump station availability: Plan your waste management accordingly. One camper at Twin Lakes reported: "It was just too inconvenient to dump elsewhere," highlighting the importance of knowing dump station availability before arrival.
