Camping options near McClure, Pennsylvania extend through state forests and private campgrounds with elevations ranging from 600 to 2,000 feet across central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley topography. The region features a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making camping viable from April through October when temperatures average 45-85°F. Road access varies dramatically with many forest roads becoming challenging during wet conditions.
What to do
River recreation: Buttonwood Campground offers direct river access for water activities. "Large grassy sites right on the Juniata River. Tubing, canoeing, swimming. Nice pool. GORGEOUS landscaping. Very friendly," reports Darcy S. The campground provides tubing shuttles with an activity wristband system.
Hiking trails: Numerous interconnected trail systems run through the camping areas. At Raymond B. Winter State Park Campground, trails connect directly from campsites. "The trails here feel like the pacific northwest. Gorgeous," writes Greg S. Trail difficulty varies from flat lakeside paths to steep mountain ascents.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies offer fishing for native and stocked trout. Penn's Creek is noted for quality fishing spots with creek-side camping access. One visitor noted the convenience: "Though mixed with camper trailers, small RVs and camper residents, it was easy to find a site where we had privacy and great river access."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with natural screening. At Poe Valley State Park Campground, campers appreciate the secluded feel. "Lovely area with many shaded spots. Electric hookup but no sewer or water hookups," notes Taylor V. Most primitive sites offer even greater separation.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, bathhouses are typically well-maintained. A camper at Little Buffalo State Park Campground observed: "Bath houses were very clean. It is nice and dark at night!" Some campgrounds feature newer shower facilities while others use vault toilets.
Natural water features: Creeks, rivers, and lakes provide focal points for recreation. A visitor to Penns Creek Campground shared: "Nestled in by a creek (perfect for kids or dogs), the campground was quiet and we could sit outside and hear the bugs (not our neighbors)." Water access varies by campsite location.
What you should know
No cell service: Many campgrounds have zero connectivity. At Poe Paddy State Park Campground, a camper warned: "There is NO cell service and park rangers do 'rounds' but aren't stationed at the site." Prepare for offline navigation and emergency planning.
Reservation systems vary: State parks require advance booking through Pennsylvania's reservation system, while forest camping requires permits. Private campgrounds have different policies. Some state parks use an honor system for check-in: "Pay by honor system at the park office."
Site conditions: Terrain varies significantly across campgrounds. One visitor to Bald Eagle State Forest noted: "Picture a lovely large, round grassy meadow surrounded by trees at the end of a long gravel road. Picnic table, fire ring, one pretty tree in the center, and a babbling brook down below the site."
Seasonal access: Most campgrounds operate April through October with limited winter options. Water systems typically shut down by mid-December. "Most state park campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with several closing by mid-December."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Shallow creeks provide safe play areas. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, a family mentioned: "There's a creek along the outside and a nice easy hiking trail that follows it." Look for gradual entry points and calm water sections.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds include play structures. "The campground is divided by a local road and has 2 different feels. The lower section is right by the river with several riverfront sites and many river view sites. The upper side has the playground and kids activities and feels more set out in the country," explains Bryan S. about Buttonwood Campground.
Activity planning: Sunsational Family Campground offers organized events. "The Campground had a Pig Roast FREE for everyone," noted Irene G. Most state parks have ranger-led programs during summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many forest and state park campgrounds have size restrictions. "I wouldn't recommend big campers as most of the spots would be a pain to back into," warns Jolene J. about Poe Paddy State Park. Check site dimensions before booking.
Hookup availability: Services vary widely across the region. A visitor to River's Edge RV Park observed: "There are water and electric hookups with sewer to be added (currently, a honey wagon comes through to pump out anyone who needs it on Saturdays)." Plan accordingly for limited or no hookups at many sites.
Level pads: Site preparation varies significantly. Some visitors report challenging leveling situations: "Sites are good sized, mostly shaded, and grassy." Pack leveling blocks and stabilizers for uneven terrain common throughout the region.
