Best Campgrounds near Marienville, PA

The Allegheny National Forest surrounding Marienville, Pennsylvania provides a range of camping experiences from primitive tent sites to full-service RV campgrounds with cabins. Forest Ridge Campground and Loleta Recreation Area offer established camping within minutes of town, while dispersed options like Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite provide more secluded alternatives. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins and Clear Creek State Park Campground, both within 20 miles, feature tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals in wooded settings along the Clarion River.

Most developed campgrounds in the Marienville area operate seasonally from May through October or December, with limited winter accessibility. "We stayed here on a busy weekend. The sites are good sized, have a picnic table and fire ring with grill," noted one visitor about Cook Forest State Park. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and holiday periods, particularly at state park facilities which can fill months in advance. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage at developed campgrounds closer to town and limited or no service in more remote forest locations. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer thunderstorms and significant snowfall possible in winter months.

Campers consistently rate waterfront sites along the Clarion River among the most desirable in the region. Clear Creek State Park receives particularly high marks for its river access, swimming areas, and hiking trails. Several campgrounds feature electric hookups, shower facilities, and sanitary dump stations for RVs, while more primitive sites appeal to those seeking solitude. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, Minister Creek Campground offers a mix of established spots and dispersed sites with easy access to hiking trails. Forest Ridge Campground stands out for its cabin options and proximity to forest recreation areas. The region's mixed-use campgrounds accommodate various camping styles, with some facilities permitting pets in designated areas and others maintaining alcohol-free environments in accordance with state park regulations.

Best Camping Sites Near Marienville, Pennsylvania (120)

    1. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins

    51 Reviews
    Cooksburg, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 744-8407

    $20 - $67 / night

    "Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"

    "There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."

    2. Clear Creek State Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 752-2368

    $22 - $57 / night

    "A must do when camping in Pennsylvania. The Clarian river is great for kayaking . Multiple trails off of park."

    "There are kayak rentals nearby also. The Clarion River is full of wildlife including bald eagles hunting the river and an occasional black bear nearby."

    3. Minister Creek Campground

    15 Reviews
    Sheffield, PA
    11 miles
    Website

    $12 / night

    "Easy access to hiking trails right from camp. Not a ton of distance between sites but everyone around us was quiet and chill."

    "Whether you're staying at the campground itself or on the trail off the parking lot, you really can't get much better than this."

    4. Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

    9 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    4 miles

    "Great little roadside campsite to get away. We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"

    "Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area. Currently finish up the night and once the fire dies down I’ll head to bed."

    5. Loleta Recreation

    6 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 927-6628

    $16 - $80 / night

    "The site we picked was off the beaten path so we had nice privacy. The site was large with plenty of space for 6 people and 4 tents. The views were gorgeous. The bathroom was clean."

    "We really enjoyed walking around the recreation area constructed by CCC. Beautiful. Easy to get to."

    6. Rvino - Campers Paradise

    9 Reviews
    Clarington, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 752-2393

    $40 - $245 / night

    "This campground is just far enough away from home that it feels worlds away while still being convenient for forgotten items."

    "The store front has anything you can think of, and the playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day"

    7. Kalyumet Campground

    14 Reviews
    Lucinda, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 744-9622

    "We enjoyed the pool the walking/hiking trails, a trip into Cooks Forest, and even spent some time at the arcade (costs money)."

    "A short path through the woods leads you to their mini-golf/pizza/ice cream shop."

    8. Forest Ridge Campground

    3 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 927-8340

    "The campground is well kept, the bathrooms are clean (a bit of a walk from this cabin), and the pool is inviting. Being tall, the bunkbeds were a challenge, so maybe have the kids stay in this one."

    9. Kelly Pines Campground

    2 Reviews
    Marienville, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 368-4158

    $15 - $30 / night

    "There is a hiking trail that follows the river around the campsite. There are free showers and potable water stations."

    "The area is usually damp so don’t count in being able to find much dry wood - we stop before driving in for wood.

    Trails galore! Mushrooms everywhere! Quiet and no cellular to distract."

    10. Tionesta Rec. Area Campground

    11 Reviews
    Tionesta, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (814) 755-3512

    $30 - $46 / night

    "So I’ll be honest: Sometimes I camp just so I can get close to flyfishing. This particular review has less to do with the specifics of the site (although this campground is great!)"

    "From I-80, take the exit for PA-36 then follow the signs to Tionesta and once you get near you'll see the Tionesta Recreation Area Signs."

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Recent Reviews near Marienville, PA

463 Reviews of 120 Marienville Campgrounds


  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Redbank Valley Municipal Park

    Mid September No one around

    We came here after finding this campsite on the dirt app. When we arrived, there was no one around. There are no rules or payment stations. There are a lot of RVs that seem to be set up in a permanent location. We camped on a field and haven’t seen anyone. There are bathrooms and showers and they are open. It looks like this is the site of the fairgrounds and maybe it is a hopping place in the summer? I will update this review if anyone comes by.

  • Daniel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Curwensville Lake Campground

    Amazing

    Having PTSD and serious anxiety. This spot allows you to relax without to much concern,dogs welcome ,boating and swimming was awesome for around this area. Camping is great especially at night with boats on the water.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest

    Not bad for 20 bucks

    Not bad at all for 20 bucks , spots with electricity cost more. Came on a week night without a reservation and was almost unable to get a spot , host was nice though! Quiet area

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    Don’t recommend

    Apple Maps brings you way far away, follow the pin and it will bring you. Way too grown in as of August . Didn’t end up staying here. May be a good spot in the fall once the grass dies. Secluded spot though

  • Dani T.
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Clarion River Campground

    Possibly 5 Stars IF...

    This camp area could be 5 Stars if you get lucky. We got here very late, and almost all the sites were full... the one nice one that was available had food everywhere. Don't do this! There were chicken carcasses and popcorn, eggs, and a bag of food in a fire ring. Having seen racoons & other wildlife on the road in, obviously we couldn't tent there. We car c(r)amped at another site. M7(?). There was no place for a tent & no fire ring at that spot. The river view in the morning was nice though. Had we arrived earlier or gotten lucky, this area is probably an awesome camp spot! There's an information station along River Rd with a pit toilet house. On the billboard you'll find a map of the designated camp spots along both River Rd and Millstone. Take a picture of it. There's no reception here but that's how you know it's a nice area!

  • Sienna L.
    Jul. 22, 2025

    Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins

    Great Getway

    This campground was great! Throughout the week in the summer it is pretty quiet. Very close to the fire tower and other things to see around it. The Knotty Pine bar and restaurant was right down the road and had great food and drink.

  • Erik W.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Wolfs Camping Resort

    Absolutely beautiful

    Super friendly staff, great location. stocked lake with catch and release fishing. Loved it.

    Stayed in May 2017

  • Casey L.
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Kiasutha

    Wooded sites

    Our campsite was waterfront and beautiful, but the majority were just a wooded setting. They all seemed decently spaced apart, or at least felt that way because they had trees between. Driveways had old pavement, some were not very level but wouldn’t be a problem if you can level. Our site didn’t have a good spot for a tent but some had grassy areas. Bathrooms were outdated but mostly clean, no paper towels or hand dryers. Didn’t see any rangers or park staff drive through, quiet hours were not enforced and we had a loud neighbor. Close to some nice trails.


Guide to Marienville

Dispersed camping near Marienville, Pennsylvania offers several options in the Allegheny National Forest, which covers over 517,000 acres and sits at elevations between 1,300 and 2,300 feet. The forest's mixed hardwood terrain creates distinct camping experiences across seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Marienville serves as a gateway to both primitive backcountry sites and established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities.

What to Do

Fishing in native brooks: Minister Creek Campground provides access to small stream fishing. "Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for. Such a great place to get away," notes one visitor. The creek runs directly behind several campsites.

Night sky viewing: Dark skies make stargazing excellent throughout the area, particularly in less developed areas. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," suggests a camper at Minister Creek Campground. The limited light pollution creates viewing conditions rarely found in more populated regions.

Seasonal swimming: The water recreation areas provide cooling options during summer months. Clear Creek State Park Campground features "a designated swimming beach with sand" and "Clear Creek runs through the campground and is a perfect spot for a BBQ or picnic," according to one reviewer.

Mountain biking: The trail systems surrounding Marienville accommodate multiple skill levels, with connections to the larger Allegheny trail network. Forest roads provide easier options while dedicated single-track offers more technical riding experiences.

What Campers Like

Creek-side sites: The sound of moving water adds to the camping experience at several locations. At Tionesta Rec. Area Campground, visitors appreciate "sites #46 and 48 right above the creek surrounded by tall trees. Incredibly quiet." These waterfront sites tend to book quickly during peak season.

Rustic solitude: The smaller, less developed campgrounds provide a more isolated experience. "Smallest PA campground. Less than 10 sites. Run-of-the-mill pit bathrooms. Nice creek with some shallow pools," notes one camper about Minister Creek Campground, highlighting its minimal development.

Hiking trail access: Direct connections to trail systems make several campgrounds particularly appealing. "There are multiple hiking trails leaving the campground," mentions a visitor to Clear Creek State Park. The interconnected trail system allows for day hikes of varying difficulty from many camping locations.

Reasonable site spacing: Unlike more crowded campgrounds in popular tourist areas, many sites around Marienville provide adequate separation. "The sites are well proportioned (not right on top of each other), and perfectly situated at the base of the trailhead," reports a camper at Minister Creek.

What You Should Know

Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely but is generally poor throughout the region. At Kelly Pines Campground, a visitor notes "no cellular to distract," indicating complete absence of service. Plan navigation and communication accordingly.

Variable site conditions: Terrain can affect camping comfort at certain locations. At Clear Creek State Park, one camper mentions "most of the spots will require leveling blocks," which is particularly important for RV campers.

Water availability: Potable water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "There is no potable water but there is a river and a non-potable pump," reports a Kelly Pines visitor, highlighting the need to bring drinking water to some locations.

Road access considerations: Some forest roads present challenges. At Tionesta, a camper warns about "3 dirt speed bumps with no signs. You hit them pulling a camper and it was horrible." Forest roads may require reduced speeds and careful navigation.

Tips for Camping with Families

Playground access: Rvino - Campers Paradise provides dedicated play areas. "The playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day," mentions one family camper. Structured recreation options keep children engaged.

Educational opportunities: Nature programs at several parks add learning experiences for children. At Clear Creek State Park, a visitor recommends: "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 really great teacher!"

Water safety awareness: River currents can be stronger than they appear. One Clear Creek visitor cautions, "The Clarion is a crystal clear, shallow, rock bottom river perfect for a cool off, fishing or kayaking... but the current is strong."

Activity variety: Multiple recreation options prevent boredom during longer stays. At Forest Ridge Campground, "the bathrooms were extremely clean, the pool is amazing and clean, and the campsites are comfortable and well kept," providing diverse options for family enjoyment.

Tips from RVers

Hookup logistics: Site layout affects connection ease. At Tionesta, a camper notes "The utilities were about 3/4 the way to the back of the site so no problems with sewer, water, or electric cord lengths. The water pressure was okay at about 42 psi."

Site length accuracy: Verify site dimensions before booking. "We arrived on a Sunday afternoon around 3:00 PM and the COE entrance building was not manned, so we took a picture of the CG map and proceeded to back-in site 100 with 50 AMP FHUs. There were no obstacles so our back-in was one and done," reports a Tionesta visitor.

Backing challenges: Some sites present maneuvering difficulties for larger rigs. "After watching a 40' 5th wheel struggle to back into site 113, we decided this site is not a good choice for rigs over 35 feet or for someone with below-average backing abilities due to the obstacles getting into the site," warns an experienced RVer at Tionesta.

Satellite reception variability: Tree cover affects connectivity. "Most of the sites in the CG have mature trees so the satellite is iffy. We got 2 bars on Verizon," notes a Tionesta camper, highlighting communication challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available in Marienville, PA?

Marienville offers diverse camping experiences within the Allegheny National Forest region. Forest Ridge Campground provides drive-in and hike-in options with water and toilet facilities. For a more rustic experience, Kelly Pines Campground offers boat-in and drive-in access near Marienville. Nearby, you'll find Loleta Recreation with reservable sites that accommodate RVs with water and toilet facilities. For a unique farm stay experience, consider the magical Double Rainbow Farm where you can swim in the pond and hike in the National Forest surrounded by friendly farm animals.

Are there RV rental services in Marienville, Pennsylvania?

Marienville itself doesn't have dedicated RV rental services, but several nearby campgrounds accommodate RVs and may offer rental options. Clear Creek State Park Campground has RV sites with good facilities, though their non-powered sites aren't recommended for RVs due to uneven terrain. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins offers good-sized sites with picnic tables and fire rings suitable for RVs. For rentals, you may need to check with providers in larger nearby towns or contact these campgrounds directly to inquire about on-site rental options or partnerships with local rental companies.

What camping is available near Marienville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Marienville, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 120 campgrounds and RV parks near Marienville, PA and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Marienville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Marienville, PA is Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins with a 4.5-star rating from 51 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Marienville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Marienville, PA.

What parks are near Marienville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 parks near Marienville, PA that allow camping, notably Tionesta Lake and Allegheny National Forest.