Parker Dam State Park Campground lies within the Pennsylvania Wilds region at an elevation of approximately 1,900 feet. The campground sits nestled in Moshannon State Forest, part of the vast 2.1-million-acre Pennsylvania Wilds area. Fall temperatures drop into the 30s overnight, making it ideal for seasonal wildlife viewing and crisp camping conditions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Benezette Elk Range: Located about 30 minutes from Penfield, this area offers exceptional opportunities to see Pennsylvania's elk herd. "Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground. It was nice. The ranger stated that they will, probably, start charging next year," notes a camper at Hicks Run.
Creek swimming spots: Several campgrounds offer natural water features for cooling off. At Hicks Run, "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it! Also the river is just down on 555 with a kayak launch," according to one visitor.
Disc golf course: Clear Creek State Park offers recreational options beyond hiking. A camper mentions, "Clear Creek State Park is an amazing little gem right outside of Cook Forest. Most of the campsites are right on the water, beautiful bridges, a great disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails."
Kayaking the Clarion River: The crystal-clear waters provide excellent paddling opportunities. "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," reports a visitor to Clear Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful, secluded atmosphere: The Penfield area campgrounds offer genuine wilderness experiences. At Medix Run Camping Area, visitors appreciate 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. Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek."
Level campsites: Many campsites throughout the region feature well-maintained surfaces. At DuBois Treasure Lake KOA, "Rock sites mostly level. Most sites are huge. Dog run is ok and have to walk a good was to the trash bin depending on campsite."
Natural water features: Access to streams, creeks, and rivers enhances the camping experience. A camper at Clear Creek State Park notes: "Clear Creek runs through the campground and is a perfect spot for a BBQ or Picnic. It also has a designated swimming beach with sand. There are multiple hiking trails leaving the campground."
Wildlife encounters: Regular wildlife sightings add to the camping experience. At Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground, the natural surroundings provide habitat for various species. The park's vintage atmosphere is noted by campers: "We really liked the vintage vibe the park had. The park is small with not much in regard to activities/amenitites but nice for just a laidback/relaxed camping trip."
What you should know
Zero cell service: Many campgrounds in the area have limited to no connectivity. At Woodland Campground, just an hour from Penfield, visitors note the well-maintained facilities despite remote location: "Very nice park in a wooded setting. Hosts are very helpful, small store with essentials at a reasonable price. Sites are well spaced and gravel."
Timber rattlesnakes present: Be vigilant when hiking trails during warmer months. At Cook Forest State Park, a camper reports, "Beautiful park with huge pine trees. 235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly. Good ATT & Verizon cell service. Nice trails and friendly campground hosts."
Seasonal considerations: Fall and spring offer distinct advantages for camping. "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, luckily no one was there the entire time," notes a visitor to Simon B. Elliott State Park.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Some campgrounds offer truly rustic experiences. At Medix Run, "Primitive sites with picnic tables and fire pits for a group. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and reservations but they are free."
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas for kids: Several parks feature designated swimming areas. At Clear Creek State Park, "There's so much to do here--hiking, swimming, rafting, biking, disc golf, etc. There's also a really nice playground and a great little beach at the entrance of the campground (water is always cold though!)"
Educational opportunities: Nature programs enhance pet-friendly camping near Penfield, Pennsylvania. "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!" recommends a family camper at Clear Creek State Park.
Playground access: Parks with play equipment provide additional recreation for children. A camper at Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins notes, "We have a group of about 20 friends who take over the back 'cul de sac' of the campground (section 180s) each year. In spite of a completely booked holiday weekend the campground is spread out, secluded and quiet."
Movies and programming: Some parks offer organized activities. "The Park offers movies on an outdoor screen, regular nature talks and walks and has an onsite museum," shares a Clear Creek State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Research specific sites before booking. A camper at Parker Dam State Park notes, "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete services. "Parker Dam State Park offeres something for everyone. The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available also. Nice clean sites."
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain. A visitor to Clear Creek State Park comments: "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks."
Big rig accommodation: Some parks can handle larger vehicles. At Parker Dam, "Both ATT & Verizon signals weren't bad. Wouldn't try to watch a movie or stream anything though. For the most part the sites were pretty level. Most pretty shaded, and there is also a pet section as well as a full hookup area. The full hookup, as normal are full sun for big rigs."
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