Tent camping options near Mercer, Pennsylvania include both backcountry and established sites within a 30-mile radius. The region features forested landscapes with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,300 feet, creating varied camping environments from riverside flats to wooded hillsides. Winter camping is available at select locations, though most facilities operate seasonally from April through October with reduced services during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing access: Mountain View Camps provides proximity to quality fishing spots while offering basic amenities. According to Richard C., the location is "close to hiking trails and fishing spots" where visitors might "even see an albino fawn" while exploring the surrounding game lands.
Hiking trails: Wolfkiel Run Shelters connects to the larger Oil Creek State Park trail system. "The shelters are approx. 15min walk to the creek & Miller Farm Bridge, which joins the Oil Creek State Park trail. It's a stunning walk with lots of small swimming spots along the way," notes Britt B.
Water recreation: Headwaters Park offers lakefront camping with water activities. Rebecca G. mentions "Various watercraft rentals available, but look at availability before you go if that is included in your plans. Best for relaxation, chill kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, and shorter walks."
What campers like
Shelter privacy: The layout at Oil Creek State Park provides separation between camping units. Katherine T. confirms site preferences: "I agree with the other reviewer that Site G is the one with the best view in this campground," noting that "the noise carries from other sites so, your neighbors will make or break how well you sleep here."
Winter accommodations: Wolfkiel Run Shelters offers protected camping during colder months. Britt B. explains: "The shelters have hooks that allow you to hang a tarpaulin to help keep the heat in your shelter... The shelter fireplaces have hooks for hanging pots and pans over the flames."
Level tent sites: Danner Primitive Campground provides well-maintained sites with river access. Casey L. describes: "There are 8 sites spread out along the edge of the river, some being closer together than others. They are level and clear, each with a new picnic table and nice fire rings with adjustable grates."
What you should know
Access limitations: Danner Primitive Campground requires significant effort to reach. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge, but there are other trailheads throughout the tract also," explains Casey L.
Permit requirements: Several primitive sites have stay limitations. Casey L. notes that Danner Primitive Campground "is meant more to be a stop along a paddling or hiking trip than a destination camping trip - you must get a permit to stay more than one night."
Water sources: Bring adequate water or purification methods. At Wolfkiel Run Shelters, "Water is available in the summer months" according to Britt B., while Danner Primitive Campground has "a spring for water which says to boil before drinking."
Tips for camping with families
Simple accommodations: Pioneer Trails Tree Farm Campground offers a unique setting suitable for children. Andrew O. reports, "My family and I had a great time. It was very easy and relaxing. The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids."
Bathroom accessibility: Consider proximity to facilities when selecting sites. Andrew O. cautions about Pioneer Trails Tree Farm: "Only wish toilet access was a little closer for the women."
Winter shelter camping: Adirondack shelters can extend camping seasons for families. Britt B. recommends: "These shelters are very peaceful in the winter and would highly recommend them if you are keen for some 'winter camping' but not keen to sleep in a tent or be completely exposed."
Tips from RVers
Accessible options: Quiet and Secluded provides drive-in access with hookups for small to medium RVs. Tom J. describes it as a "Beautiful place. Host was very accommodating."
Limited RV services: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Mercer lack comprehensive RV facilities. Frederick B., while bicycle touring, found Pioneer Trails Tree Farm provided "Office to charge electronics and a campsite with firepit," but notes the campground has reduced services.
Alternative considerations: Tent campers converted from RVing appreciate the simplicity. Clyde A. describes Quiet and Secluded as having "Clean amenities!" despite rolling in "on the later side," suggesting flexibility with arrival times not typically found at larger RV parks.
