Olanta, Pennsylvania sits within the Moshannon State Forest region, where elevations range from 1,300 to 2,100 feet above sea level. The area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, with cooler nights dropping to 55-65°F. Campsites throughout this region often feature dense tree cover on uneven terrain, creating natural privacy barriers between neighboring sites.
What to do
Kayaking on dark waters: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers unusual paddling experiences on a 250-acre lake with distinctive coloration. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," notes Matthew U. The water's unique appearance comes from natural tannins released by surrounding vegetation.
BMX biking for children: Crooked Run Campground maintains a dedicated track for young riders. "Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids," explains Jackie W. This specialized amenity provides entertainment beyond traditional playground equipment.
Wildlife observation excursions: Parker Dam State Park Campground serves as a base for elk viewing trips. "Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!" shares Shirley M. The nearby elk viewing areas contain Pennsylvania's only wild elk herd, with approximately 1,400 animals.
Fishing in stocked waters: Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area maintains fishing access points for anglers. "Camp store has a decent amount of items if looking for items for camp," reports Tim W. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks these waters with trout each spring.
What campers like
Modern bathhouse facilities: DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA maintains clean restroom facilities according to multiple campers. "The bathroom was clean. You can get firewood delivered to your site which is nice," shares Casey L. These facilities include hot water and regular maintenance.
Level parking pads: Clearview Campground provides flat surfaces for setting up equipment. "Beautiful view and easy to get in and out," notes J M. The hillside location offers valley views while maintaining level camping areas through terraced construction.
Full hookup availability: Woodland Campground offers comprehensive utility connections for extended stays. "The sights are spacious and can accommodate large rigs. There are back-in and pull-thru sites with FHU 30/50 amp," explains Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure. These connections support air conditioning units during summer heat.
Scenic surroundings: Many campers highlight the natural settings throughout the region. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Quiet low tea office campground," describes Travis S. about Parker Dam State Park. The Pennsylvania Wilds designation covers 2.1 million acres of public lands across multiple counties.
What you should know
Pet restrictions vary by campground: While most facilities offer dog friendly campgrounds near Olanta, rules differ significantly. Some allow pets throughout all camping loops while others restrict them to designated sections. "We take our dog so there is a restriction on where you can camp," explains Mark S. about Crooked Run Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service remains inconsistent throughout the region. "RV spots had zero trees/shade. Verizon service horrible and WIFI did not work where we were," reports Julie K. about DuBois Treasure Lake KOA. Signal strength varies by carrier and specific location within each campground.
Campsite spacing considerations: Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground has tight arrangements in some sections. "We stayed in site 6. It was a very small site and had no established spot to put our tent so we actually had to encroach on site 7," shares Casey L. Research specific site dimensions before booking.
Seasonal operation: Most pet-welcoming campgrounds around Olanta operate from April through October, with limited winter accessibility. "SB Elliott SP is a tiny campground with quite a few flat places to take a stroll," notes Danielle S. Winter closures protect roads and water systems from freeze damage.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Consider sites near play structures for convenient supervision. "Our kiddo loved playing at the playground right by our campsite," shares AdventureStang about Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area. Parents can monitor children while maintaining camp activities.
Educational programming: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers structured learning opportunities. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," mentions Lisa L. Programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Beach access: Several facilities maintain swimming areas with amenities. "Nice clean sites. The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat," describes J K. about Parker Dam State Park. Most beaches provide changing facilities but not lifeguards.
Wildlife viewing with children: Morning hours offer optimal animal sighting opportunities. "Great place for the entire family. Close to the Benezette Elk Viewing Area," notes Kevin E. Dawn viewings increase chances of spotting elk, deer, and various bird species.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Woodland Campground accommodates substantial equipment. "Sites are well spaced and gravel. Nice fishing pond (catch and release). Military discount given," explains Paul Y. Advance reservations remain essential for these premium locations.
Navigation challenges: Some facilities require complicated routing. "This KOA is located 5 miles in the back of a gated community. Signage is lacking and it's confusing to locate once past the gate," warns Ashley L. about DuBois Treasure Lake KOA. Download offline maps before arrival.
Hookup variations: Electric service types differ between parks. "Parker Dam State Park offers something for everyone. The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available," notes J K. Verify amperage compatibility before booking sites.
Leveling requirements: Terrain throughout the region creates uneven parking surfaces. "Some sites are larger than others. Have been camping here since it first opened and never by ad an awful experience," shares Mark S. about Crooked Run Campground. Bring additional leveling blocks for stabilization.
