Dispersed camping sites around Glen Campbell, Pennsylvania provide primitive backcountry experiences in the Allegheny National Forest. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,500-1,800 feet with mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple and pine trees. These rustic camping areas typically receive modest visitation even during peak summer months, with weekday occupancy rates under 30% at most sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Clarion River Campground offers direct water access for anglers. "We were lucky to snag a spot on the side of the river with our RV. We had direct River access!" notes camper Evan. However, water quality can vary seasonally, as Kevin observed at Millstone Creek: "The river was basically brown like pudding, the only signs of life were insects. While a very beautiful area, the river was kind of yucky looking."
Hiking nearby: Several primitive hiking routes connect camping areas with forest trails. At Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite, one visitor mentioned "a couple trails" accessible from the camping area. Another camper at Loleta Road noted they "stayed a lot deeper in the woods than this road but all the roads in the forest are drivable gravel with many pull of spots for camping!"
Wildlife observation: The forest areas provide habitat for various wildlife species. Campers report seeing raccoons and other wildlife on forest roads near Clarion River Campground. One visitor warned: "Having seen racoons & other wildlife on the road in, obviously we couldn't tent there."
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: These sites offer considerable privacy, especially outside peak periods. At Millstone Creek Campground, a camper experienced "tremendous solitude, but it was a Thursday night in late March and very cold. I saw maybe 6 other cars the 12 hours I was there. Though I'm sure it's busier in warmer weather."
Budget-friendly option: All dispersed sites in the area are free to use, making them economical alternatives to developed campgrounds. One Red Mill Pond visitor appreciated the "big spot to maneuver a van" with "campfire rings" without any fees.
Vehicle accessibility: Most sites accommodate car camping without requiring hiking gear. At Loleta Road, a first-time dispersed camper chose the area because they "was able to drive in which is why I chose this area," adding that "the only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Most sites lack sanitary facilities entirely. A camper at Red Mill Pond reported "there is no vaulted toilet at this site any more. Repeated vandalism resulted in its closure." Similarly, Clarion River Campground has limited facilities: "There's an information station along River Rd with a pit toilet house."
Site availability: Competition for prime spots increases during weekends and summer months. At Clarion River, a visitor found it to be a "busy spot. There are various large sized spots on both sides of the road," while another noted "almost all the sites were full" when arriving late.
Road conditions: Access roads can become problematic depending on weather and season. Red Mill Pond received feedback that "the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," while at Loleta Road, spring conditions meant "it was also extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose sites with more level ground for family tent setups. At Millstone Creek Campground, a visitor found "hard, fairly flat parking surface right off of paved road. Rock fire ring. Sites are well spaced."
Safety considerations: Check surrounding trees for potential hazards before setting up camp. One Millstone Creek camper advised to "always look for widow makers above because some of the trees seem to be diseased."
Weather preparedness: Rain can significantly impact camping conditions and comfort. One Loleta Road camper experienced camping "during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites can only accommodate smaller RVs and vans. A visitor to Loleta Road mentioned it was "not a bad one at all" when "living in a van looking for spots to stay," noting it was a "good bit off the road."
Campsite selection: Some areas offer multiple site options with varying suitability for vehicles. At Millstone Creek, a camper observed that "size of camping spots ranges from large open fields with fire pits to spots on the shoulder of the road."
Self-sufficiency required: No hookups or services exist at rustic camping near Glen Campbell, Pennsylvania. Red Mill Pond was described as having "no amenities" but being "good for a short stay, quiet" by a camper in a van, while another noted it was "EXTREMELY rustic car camping."
