139 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Penfield, Pennsylvania serves as a gateway to numerous forested campgrounds and state parks across the Moshannon State Forest region. Parker Dam State Park Campground provides diverse accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and rustic cabins, while Simon B. Elliott State Park offers a more basic camping experience with fewer amenities. Many campgrounds in the area support multiple camping styles, with several featuring both tent-friendly sites and RV infrastructure. The region's camping areas are generally situated within heavily wooded areas, providing natural shade and wildlife viewing opportunities across both developed and primitive camping zones.
Road access to most campgrounds remains reliable throughout the camping season, which typically runs from April through October or mid-December depending on the specific location. Full hookup sites are available at several campgrounds, though visitors seeking primitive experiences can find them at locations like Medix Run Camping Area. "We love this campground and keep coming back. Zero cell signal, great sites, clean bath houses, tons of amenities, and close to the elk in Benezette!" noted one camper about Parker Dam. Winter access becomes more limited, with Parker Dam offering year-round cabin accommodations that provide indoor heating options. Most campgrounds in the Penfield area maintain modern restroom facilities with flush toilets, though shower availability varies significantly between locations.
The camping experience near Penfield is characterized by quiet forested settings and proximity to wildlife viewing opportunities. Several visitors highlighted elk viewing as a major attraction, with Benezette located approximately 30 minutes from many campgrounds. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and natural surroundings as standout features. The Parker Dam State Park lake provides swimming, fishing, and boat rental opportunities that complement the camping experience. A visitor remarked that "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat." Site privacy varies considerably across campgrounds, with some locations offering well-spaced, shaded sites while others feature more open layouts with sites positioned closer together. Most developed campgrounds in the region maintain clean facilities and paved access roads, creating an accessible outdoor experience suitable for various camping preferences.
"There’s a little lake there, and a stream and some trails but in general it’s all pretty uninspiring."
"These two sites are shaded, surrounded by trees and pretty much private to the rest of the "Modern" campground."
from $20 - $72 / night
Check Availability"It is very close to I80, however, there is a 5 mile drive thru a housing development where the 25 MPH speed limit is enforced by an overly zealous security guard."
"Dog run is ok and have to walk a good was to the trash bin depending on campsite. Will be back. Some sites have concrete patio which I do recommend."
"Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd."
"Have your own little driveway to park your car right next to the site. Comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"We enjoyed just walking around the cabin loop and back roads. There is wood for sale at the maitenance barn for $5 a bundle self serve honor system. Parker Dam is closeby with more to do and a store."
"There isn't a camp store, but I-80 is 2 miles down the road and there are places to shop/eat in nearby Clearfield. "
from $18 - $67 / night
Check Availability"We rolled through the area later than ideal and Dale welcomed us as a walk-in. Waited up for us and showed us a spot - it was perfect. Beautiful view and easy to get in and out."
"Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"
"There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."
from $20 - $67 / night
Check Availability"Woodland campground in Woodland, Pennsylvania is a friendly family-owned campground. The grounds are a beautiful park-like setting with a lake and trails."
"This spot allows you to relax without to much concern,dogs welcome ,boating and swimming was awesome for around this area. Camping is great especially at night with boats on the water."
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"A must do when camping in Pennsylvania. The Clarian river is great for kayaking . Multiple trails off of park."
"There are kayak rentals nearby also. The Clarion River is full of wildlife including bald eagles hunting the river and an occasional black bear nearby."
from $22 - $57 / night
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ScoutClean campground, water, electric. Saw a turkey upon arrival and a deer and multiple black squirrels when departing. Nice little store with arcade, snacks and pizza they will deliver to your site on Fridays! Heated pool and pretty nice bathrooms
TravelerA great place to spend some time. Very quiet plenty of hiking trails, the river is great for kayaking. Lots of big hemlock trees. Definitely will return in the fall.
RangerWhat a gorgeous area. Camp site has a path down to Medix Run (which seems quite clean) with a perfect spot to set out camp chairs and watch the water. Beautiful sounds of birds and spring wildflowers all over the site. Sites are well spaced. The road is surprisingly busy day and night, which did take away from the experience. Unfortunately that issue was dwarfed by other behavior.
Imagine you're sitting by the water on your campsite at 6pm, and a man is suddenly standing next to you. On your dispersed, state forest camp site. With a path only accessible by walking through the site. He tells you a beaver dam used to be here and goes into the water to fish. Weird things happen, but THREE different fishermen at different times used our campsite as their fishing base. Not the area next to it, the campsite. Even parked down the driveway next to our car.
Maybe you're not bothered by this. Maybe it's because you've read this and now had the chance to consider the possibility. However, I'd be willing to bet you'd rather not be surprised. Especially when there are no amenities and as a woman, you need to get partially undressed just to take a leak in the morning.
This is unacceptable behavior. There were other unoccupied campsites, turn offs and places to stop and fish. In all my life camping, no one has ever done this sort of thing. You stay off campsites when other people are there, unless you need help or want to pass on information.
If one person had done this, I wouldn't be writing such a cranky review but three instances warrants a warning for other campers. Good luck, folks.
TravelerWe arrived mid week for Memorial Day camping. No hookups obviously but beautiful large site with room for probably up to 30’ RV. The sites are WAY further apart than you think they are. Like spread more than 10 miles.
GuideMedium sized campground. All the sites are large and private ish. Not a bad or uneven site anywhere. Showers and bathrooms are clean. Ice and firewood available at the host. Easy access to the shoreline for fishing or boating. Their are 2 trading posts 1.6 miles outside the campground going towards Kane, PA. They are well stocked and have everything you forgot plus live bait.
GuideIf your coming here off of Rt. 666 the access gate is closed and has been for years. Continue to Crary Ave. Rt.6 in Sheffield and head East. About 6 miles ahead turn right onto Mill Ln., then Right on Curtis Rd., left onto Curtis Road extended, then turn right onto Forestry Rd. There are posted private property signs everywhere, just keep going as this is the only access to this area. I asked the locals and it is fine. Do not come here if you have a car or low riding vehicle. SUV, Jeeps, and trucks only. The access road is fine, but getting to campsite takes a higher frame vehicle. It is a perfect place for peaceful Boondocking. This area can accommodate 2 camp sights. Maybe 3.
GuideThe campsite is located about three miles down from Cherry Springs State Park and Campground, just off the road. It is visible from the road, so if complete privacy is important to you, keep that in mind. That said, the setting itself is beautiful, especially the drive in through the tall pine forests which immediately gave the area a peaceful feel.
The site has two good level tent spots and one semi level spot, all within view of where you park, which made unloading and setup easy. It took me roughly an hour to get camp fully set up. One thing to know going in: there is absolutely no cell service at least with T mobile, which can either be a huge positive or a dealbreaker depending on what you’re looking for.
One of the best features of the site is a nice trail leading back to a creek that you can hear flowing from camp. I spent some time walking along it and tossed a fishing line in a few times. The current was moving pretty fast and I did not see signs of fish during my visit, but it was still a relaxing place to explore.
Firewood was a mixed bag. There are plenty of fallen trees around, but much of it was surrounded by poison ivy, so gathering wood took a little caution. Bugs were present enough that I ended up using a head net in the evening, especially after dark.
For stargazing, the location was solid. I stayed up late and managed to catch three shooting stars. I brought a telescope but the angle of the sky from my setup made it harder to use than expected. If astronomy is your main goal, you may still want to head up to Cherry Springs proper for the best viewing experience.
Overall, this is a peaceful, simple campsite with good access to nature and a quiet atmosphere. Best suited for people who are okay disconnecting completely, enjoy creekside wandering and do not mind a more rustic experience. I would camp here again, especially for a quick getaway near Cherry Springs.
TravelerM9, short RVsM6 under 25’ or less big drop off. M8 tents only, M7 parking spot filled with gravel (for maintenance?), M6 short RVs under 22’ with tent area behind, M5 gravel again, M3 & M4 are together with one side good for RVs and a tent site that is a significant hike through the woods. M2 tents only, M1 good size for RV but it’s shaped like a T so you need to maneuver it in.
TravelerShort term area was basically an open field with a few trees. Restrooms were large but plumbing has a lot to be desired. Friendly staff, quiet and lots of amenities to include a snack shop with panini’s, pizza, tacos and more. Super good WiFi
Camping near Penfield, Pennsylvania offers access to the Pennsylvania Wilds region with several streams and small lakes feeding into the West Branch Susquehanna River watershed. Elevation in the area averages around 1,600 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, especially during spring and fall camping seasons. Campsites near Penfield often feature rocky, uneven terrain that requires careful tent placement and extra equipment for RV leveling.
Elk viewing opportunities: The area around Benezette is one of the top attractions for campers, located about 30 minutes from most campsites near Penfield. "We came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!" notes a visitor to Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Fishing in trout-stocked waters: Several streams and lakes in the area maintain healthy fish populations. Clear Creek State Park provides access to the Clarion River, where a camper mentions: "The Clarion is a crystal clear, shallow, rock bottom river perfect for a cool off, fishing or kayaking. There are two kayaking/tubing companies in Cook Forest to hire watercraft to float the river."
Hiking forest trails: The extensive trail system throughout Moshannon State Forest connects many campgrounds. At Medix Run Camping Area, visitors can access several paths directly from camp: "Cute little stream in the back with a log crossing. No cell service, near town with free wifi."
Disc golf: Several parks in the region maintain disc golf courses for visitors. At Curwensville Lake Campground, one camper was pleasantly surprised: "I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so I played more games than fished. The dog swimming area was pretty cool."
Complete disconnection: Many campgrounds in this area have limited or no cell service. At Medix Run Camping Area, one visitor appreciated the isolation: "This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve."
Wildlife sightings: Beyond elk, the forests house diverse wildlife. A camper at Simon B. Elliott State Park noted: "We really liked the vintage vibe the park had. The park is small with not much in regard to activities/amenities but nice for just a laidback/relaxed camping trip."
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. At Clear Creek State Park, sites CR-001 and CR-002 are particularly valued: "Both waterfront, shaded with fire rings. Excellent tent sites! Note you can only book them for 1 night at a time."
Spacious, private campsites: Many campgrounds feature well-separated sites. At Woodland Campground, "The sites are well spaced and gravel. Nice fishing pond (catch and release). Military discount given."
Reservation requirements: Many sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Parker Dam State Park, a visitor advised: "If you want to stay in September, book early. Limited cell service."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Several campgrounds offer basic facilities only. For Medix Run, one camper shared practical advice: "You need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart. Cute little stream in the back with a log crossing. No cell service, near town with free wifi. No toilets or garbage."
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. At DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA, visitors noted seasonal challenges: "Large campground right off route 80. The campground was well-taken care of and service was good. Pool looked nice but didn't open until 11 so we didn't get a swim."
Access restrictions: Some campgrounds have particular entrance requirements. One camper at Treasure Lake KOA warned: "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, especially after a long day of driving."
Dog-friendly areas: Several campgrounds accommodate pets. Curwensville Lake Campground offers specific amenities: "Having PTSD and serious anxiety. This spot allows you to relax without too much concern, dogs welcome, boating and swimming was awesome for around this area."
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs enhance camping experiences. Clear Creek State Park offers educational resources: "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!"
Swimming options: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas. At Clear Creek State Park, "It also has a designated swimming beach with sand. There are multiple hiking trails leaving the campground."
Playground access: For families with young children, play areas provide additional entertainment. A visitor to Parker Dam State Park noted: "Great place for the entire family. Great hiking trails, the beach is great for kids, good fishing, and close to the Benezette Elk Viewing Area."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require equipment for leveling. At Simon B. Elliott State Park, a visitor observed: "Site 6 was a very small site and had no established spot to put our tent so we actually had to encroach on site 7. Everywhere else was unlevel/uneven/rocky/rooty/muddy/etc."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited to specific campgrounds. At Treasure Lake KOA, RVers commented: "RV spots had zero trees/shade. Verizon service horrible and WIFI did not work where we were - we walked up pool and it worked great there."
Big rig accessibility: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles. At Cook Forest State Park, a visitor confirmed: "235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly. Good ATT & Verizon cell service."
Winter operations: Most campgrounds close seasonally. Clear Creek State Park maintains year-round options: "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Penfield, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Penfield, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Penfield, PA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Penfield, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Penfield, PA is Parker Dam State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 17 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Penfield, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Penfield, PA.
What parks are near Penfield, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks near Penfield, PA that allow camping, notably Allegheny National Forest and Tionesta Lake.
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