Pennsylvania's Appalachian Plateau surrounds Olanta with dense forests and rocky outcroppings at elevations between 1,800-2,300 feet. The region's four distinct seasons create varied glamping conditions, with peak temperatures in July averaging 82°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most glamping sites remain open from April through October, though availability and amenities change significantly with the seasons.
What to do
Kayaking on Glendale Lake: The 26-mile shoreline at Prince Gallitzin State Park offers numerous paddling routes suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. "Very nice state park in PA. Huge lake for water sports, scenic trails, small dirt bike oval track," notes Judy H.
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: Access world-class single-track directly from campgrounds in the Seven Points area. The trail system provides full days of fast-flowing routes designed to IMBA standards. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," explains Travis S.
Fishing at multiple access points: Lake Raystown Resort provides both shoreline fishing and boat launch facilities for anglers. The lake supports multiple game fish species including bass, pike and catfish. "Absolutely amazing camp grounds. Clean and amazing fishing," reports Justin J., though he notes some sites don't have sewage hookups.
Winter activities: While most glamping operations close by late October, Black Moshannon State Park maintains cabins and yurts through December 15. Winter visitors can access cross-country skiing trails and ice fishing opportunities. "This campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Unlike the cramped setting mentioned in existing reviews, Seven Points Campground offers more spacious options in certain loops. "Large picnic table had a new seat on one side and was in great shape. Our pad was limestone and very flat and level," reports Tim J., who particularly recommends sites #6-24 in Ridge loop for shade and separation.
Clean bathroom facilities: Most glamping sites provide access to well-maintained shower houses. At Prince Gallitzin, Nicole F. reports, "The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with."
Variety of accommodation types: Beyond traditional glamping tents, visitors appreciate the range of options. "We used the ground tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend," shares Nicole F. about Prince Gallitzin, while Danielle W. enjoyed Black Moshannon's cabins: "We rented one of the cabins on the property and it was great. All of us fit comfortably."
Environmental education opportunities: Several parks offer naturalist-led programming throughout the season. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc.," notes Lisa L. about Black Moshannon State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality issues: Several lakes in the region have distinctive water characteristics. At Clear Creek State Park, the water has a reddish tint. "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why it's called the Red Mo with the locals," explains Travis S.
Reservation requirements: Unlike the information in the existing description, booking priorities vary significantly by site. For Black Moshannon, Denise D. advises: "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early."
Elevation and weather considerations: The region's topography creates microclimates affecting comfort levels. "Despite the cold wet weather this trip, we had a wonderful weekend," reports James B. about Black Moshannon, highlighting the need for appropriate clothing and gear.
Navigation challenges: GPS directions to some sites may be unreliable. Regarding Black Moshannon, Sandi G. reports: "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Bald Eagle State Park offers child-friendly layouts with playground access. "The kids had fun riding the bikes around the loop and taking the short cuts cut in around the loop. We had fun walking to the foot bridge to go fishing," shares Erik E.
Specialized youth activities: Several parks provide structured programming for children. Jackie W. recommends Prince Gallitzin: "Great place for kids! We love staying at Crooked Run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids."
Family-safe swimming areas: Designated beach areas with amenities make water access more convenient for parents. "The lake swimming area also had a snack bar and bathhouse," notes a reviewer, while Chris G. found Bald Eagle State Park "very beautiful, nice hiking trails and a beautiful lake."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible animal sightings. "The racoons were a fun surprise on our last night! We left the grease trap from the Blackstone out and they found it," explains Erik E. about Bald Eagle State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: When glamping in an RV near Olanta, research site configurations beforehand. At Seven Points, Tim J. advises: "Looking at some of our neighbor's sites, depending on where the camper site was located, some had their picnic table and fire ring either above or below them. Definitely worth looking at the pictures."
Loop-specific recommendations: Each campground has distinct sections with different characteristics. At Seven Points, Tim reports: "We took a drive around through the other six campgrounds and decided Point was our favorite, but obviously crowded because it is right on the lake. Senoia camp was (our) tied with Ridge, but only the lower portion."
Leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly between sites. At Clear Creek State Park, Isaac R. notes: "It's a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Utility access details: Water and electrical service points may not be positioned ideally. "I'm not sure about other sites, but we did not have a water hookup, just a spigot we could fill from. The dump station worked fine and was clean. Power pole was in rough shape but worked," reports Greg J. about Bald Eagle State Park.
