Rustic campsites and glamping options exist throughout the Allegheny National Forest region near Ludlow, Pennsylvania. Situated at elevations between 1,300 and 2,100 feet, the area features a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Early spring brings muddy conditions on unpaved campground roads, while fall offers spectacular foliage viewing from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Fishing for native brook trout: At Minister Creek Campground, campers can catch scrappy fish directly from the campground. "Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for. Such a great place to get away," notes one visitor. The creek's clear waters provide excellent visibility for spotting fish.
Stargazing after midnight: The remote location of many Allegheny Forest campgrounds creates ideal dark sky conditions. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," recommends a Minister Creek visitor. Light pollution is minimal throughout the region, with some campers reporting Milky Way visibility.
Hiking varied trail networks: Tracy Ridge Recreation Area offers multiple connecting trails right from the campground. "There are about 15 hiking trail segments accessible from this campground, so great base for hiking," explains one reviewer. Trail difficulty ranges from easy 1-mile loops to challenging 7-mile routes with significant elevation changes.
Swimming in designated areas: While some natural water features aren't suitable for swimming, designated swimming beaches provide safer alternatives. "Red House Administration building is a great central location to meet up with other camping families," mentions a visitor to Allegany State Park's Red House Area, which maintains a supervised swimming area during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Red Bridge Recreation Area earns high marks for spacious, well-separated campsites. "The sites are very spacious and mostly divided with brush," notes one camper. Another adds that "Sites are nice and cozy. Lots of very nice people here!"
Clean, modern bathhouse facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathroom facilities despite their rustic settings. "Bathrooms and shower house was below the standards of many of PA State Parks which we regard as the benchmark for campgrounds at reasonable prices," mentions one camper at Dewdrop Recreation Area, highlighting Pennsylvania's generally high standards for facilities.
Affordable pricing: Camping costs remain reasonable throughout the region. "We moved here after a night on the other side of the reservoir. This side doesn't have the family hustle and bustle," notes a Red Bridge Recreation Area camper who appreciated the value and quieter atmosphere. Most primitive sites range from $12-25 per night, with electric sites costing slightly more.
Direct water access: Many campsites provide immediate access to lakes, rivers, or streams. "We did a stop over and slept in our hammocks so it was perfect for us as there were lots of trees," explains a visitor to Dewdrop Recreation Area, which features waterfront sites. Some campgrounds even offer boat-in tent sites accessible only by water.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Be prepared for spotting communication gaps. "There is no cell service so you really get to be away from all the hustle for a weekend," mentions a Dewdrop Recreation Area reviewer. Some campgrounds report intermittent Verizon service with signal boosters, but most have minimal to no coverage.
Wildlife encounters: High Pines RV Park and surrounding campgrounds are home to black bears and other wildlife. "Shout out to both Jack & Debbie for warmly welcoming our South African Mastiff despite her intimidating size and appearance," notes one visitor about the pet-friendly policies despite wildlife presence.
Seasonal pests: Depending on timing, insect activity can impact camping experiences. "We were pelted for 4 days with droppings and leaf particles from them eating the oak trees," reports a Dewdrop visitor during a gypsy moth caterpillar infestation. Spring typically brings higher mosquito activity, while late summer sees fewer flying insects.
Reservation timing: First-come, first-served campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. "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,'" explains a Minister Creek camper. Arrive mid-week for better site selection at non-reservable campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated playground areas: Red Oak Campground offers extensive facilities for children. "This area houses a field, a little kids play area (many huge sized Legos for fort building mini-golf, horseshoes and an inflatable jump pad). This was amazing for my kids," shares one parent.
Consider cabin options for easier glamping: Several campgrounds offer alternative accommodations for families seeking glamping close to Ludlow, Pennsylvania. "We tent camped at site 76. Secluded and beautiful. We had the whole side of the upper loop to ourselves!" notes a family at Chapman State Park, which offers both traditional sites and glamping accommodations.
Select campgrounds with educational programs: Some parks offer structured activities for children. "They runs daily activities you can go to and learn about different things in nature," explains a visitor to Allegany State Park's Red House Area, referring to the ranger-led programs available throughout summer.
Choose sites near bathroom facilities: When camping with young children, proximity to restrooms matters. "We were not far from the bathrooms. But this area, all of the camp sites are right on top of each other. It was great for the kids because they were able to find instant friends and ride their bikes around," shares a family at Allegany State Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer partial hookups at best. "Only 3 electric sites so be prepared to be self contained," warns a Dewdrop Recreation Area visitor. Make reservations well in advance for the few full-hookup sites available in the region.
Bring leveling equipment: Many campsites throughout the region have uneven terrain. "It's a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," advises a visitor to Clear Creek State Park. Bring extra leveling blocks, especially for larger RVs.
Watch for low-hanging branches: Forested campgrounds may have clearance issues. "There are about 15 hiking trail segments accessible from this campground, so great base for hiking. This campground has a rustic feeling and is not as groomed as others nearby," notes a Tracy Ridge visitor, hinting at the less manicured nature of some campgrounds.
Consider summer heat management: With limited 50-amp service, air conditioning use may be restricted. "The price was great. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A," mentions a visitor to High Pines RV Park, highlighting the challenge of summer camping with electricity limitations.
