The Allegheny National Forest region surrounding Mount Jewett sits at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet and receives approximately 42 inches of precipitation annually. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, making it ideal for tent camping. Forest conditions vary dramatically by season, with spring bringing muddy access roads while fall delivers stunning foliage displays from late September through mid-October.
What to do
Hiking trails at Jake's Rocks: Located near Dewdrop Recreation Area, these trails offer technical terrain for experienced hikers. The area includes several unmarked paths requiring navigation skills. "The sites are maintained well. They also allow 'vicious' breeds, we have a rottie mix and it can be a hassle trying to find campgrounds that allow her in. You are literally in the mountains and it is so peaceful!" reports a camper.
Fly fishing Minister Creek: This creek contains native brook trout populations and requires a Pennsylvania fishing license ($22.97 for residents, $52.97 non-residents). "The smallest of all of the campgrounds in the Allegheny national Forest, this little slice of heaven is just perfect! Several of the sites back up to Minister Creek. Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for," notes an experienced angler from Minister Creek Campground.
Star-gazing opportunities: The Allegheny region offers exceptional dark skies with minimal light pollution, especially during new moon phases. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," advises a visitor. Summer months provide clearest viewing, while winter offers extended night hours but colder conditions.
Swimming at Chapman State Park: The park maintains a designated swimming beach with changing facilities open from late May through Labor Day. "The lake was off limits due to the dam reconstruction, but is a big draw when open. This campground is also only 20 minutes from the Kinzua Dam and 1 hour from the Kinzua Skywalk," explains a visitor to Chapman State Park Campground.
What campers like
Riverside campsites: Sites directly adjacent to water features are highly sought after, particularly during summer months. At Tracy Ridge Recreation Area, "The sites a beautiful, but there are little to no amenities. The only water was from a hand pump at the far end of the loop, near the pit toilets. Loved this place."
Spacious sites with natural separation: Most campgrounds in the region maintain significant distance between sites. "The sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space. The ground is quite rocky though, so bring plenty of heavy duty tent steaks," advises a regular visitor to the area.
Cell phone disconnection: Limited connectivity throughout the forest creates opportunities for digital detox. "There is no cell service so you really get to be away from all the hustle for a weekend," notes a camper from the region, while another mentions, "Little bit of Verizon coverage" at Tracy Ridge.
Walk-in tent sites: For traditional tent campers seeking privacy, several campgrounds offer hike-in options. A camper at Red Oak Campground reports, "I wanted to have a solo get away with the new travel trailer, and this place was exactly what I was looking for. I booked a site during the off season, so I had the entire area to myself."
What you should know
Vault toilets at primitive sites: Most primitive campgrounds offer only basic pit toilets without running water. "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," notes a camper.
Gypsy moth infestations: Seasonal caterpillar populations can affect camping experience. "We were not told of the spray block to be used to treat that part of the forest for Gypsy Moth caterpillars that filled our campsite. We were pelted for 4 days with droppings and leaf particles from them eating the oak trees," warns a visitor from June.
Bears are present: Food storage precautions are essential throughout the region. "Coming from out of state, even though I am an avid nature explorer, I had never thought twice about encountering bears... AND I now will not do that, luckily no bears came for a nighttime snack, but a mom and two cubs ran directly through our camp while having breakfast one morning."
Limited firewood availability: Not all campgrounds sell firewood on-site. "No firewood on site, so bring it with ya. Really good, cold water from the well!" advises a Tracy Ridge visitor. Others mention purchasing firewood from local vendors at significantly better prices than park-provided options.
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly activities: Allegany State Park Quaker Area provides structured recreation options. "Great for kids. The park has a lot to do in the summer but a group can still have a blast in the winter. We enjoyed the hiking trails and the beach with a new modern beach house. There were lots of nature programs put on by the park."
Playground access: Several campgrounds include designated play areas for children. "It was great for the kids because they were able to find instant friends and ride their bikes around. But if you are looking for a little more space, I would try to find a slightly larger site in the park," recommends a parent.
Noise considerations: Family campgrounds can become lively, especially during peak season. "We could hear people laughing and carrying on all night long," notes one visitor, indicating variable enforcement of quiet hours across different sites.
Water activities: Many families appreciate the mix of land and water recreation options. "The kayaks and small water craft rentals are a little pricy. But if you are looking for something to do, it's not terrible. Overall it is a nice experience."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should come prepared with leveling blocks. "The pulls ins are a bit of a draw on levelness, but none are horribly unlevel," notes an RV owner at High Pines RV Park. "I was in the 'B1' and it's a bit larger than the others as it's on the corner. It had a nicely level spot on a gravel drive for my 21 ft travel trailer."
Limited full hookup availability: Reserve early for sites with complete services. "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. Looks like some updates are on the way. The price was great. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A," advises an experienced RVer.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dumping facilities, so plan accordingly. "Very nice owners were able to get us in even though we didn't have a reservation. We had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites."
Travel distances to services: The remote location means planning for supplies. "Nearest town for groceries is 30 mins, but it was on my way to Allegheny State Park and Kinzua dam, so not a bad drive," explains one RVer exploring glamping options near Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania.
