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The Philipsburg, Pennsylvania area supports multiple camping options across state parks and private facilities. Black Moshannon State Park Campground, located about 10 miles from Philipsburg, provides tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping opportunities. Other notable campgrounds include Parker Dam State Park, offering both tent and RV camping with cabin rentals, and Woodland Campground, which provides developed sites for tents, RVs, and cabin stays within a forested setting.
Camping seasons generally run from April to December, with most facilities closing during winter months. Black Moshannon operates from the second Friday in April through December 15, while Parker Dam remains open from the second Friday in April to mid-December. Several campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for summer weekends and holiday periods. Cell service varies significantly across the region, with many locations having limited or no connectivity. Water access points and recreational opportunities differ between campgrounds, with some offering lake swimming and boating facilities. A camper noted that "Black Mo is a unique treasure" with "clean bathhouse and convenient outdoor sink for washing up after dinner."
Most developed campgrounds near Philipsburg feature electric hookups, with some providing full hookup capabilities for RVs. Tent campers can find both primitive and improved sites throughout the area, with varying levels of privacy. Black Moshannon State Park stands out for its bog lake environment, while Parker Dam offers "a rustic feel, beautiful views and a great location for wildlife encounters." The region experiences typical Pennsylvania mountain weather patterns, with cooler temperatures at night even during summer months. Visitor reviews frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, hiking trails, and water activities as highlights. Several campgrounds accommodate pets in designated areas only, and campfire restrictions may apply seasonally. The proximity to State College (about 25 minutes from Black Moshannon) provides additional services and amenities for longer stays.
"The Moss Hanne is still a thrilling trail even in the winter months and there's been a lot of beaver activity since we last visited including a very impressive dam. "
"Electric motorboats are permitted on Moshannon Lake. Boat rentals are available in season."
from $20 - $87 / night
Check Availability"This campground is perfect for people who are looking to get away from busy city life or just want to relax next to a lake."
"The site was roomy enough, but next time I know to try to reserve on the outside perimeter for more room. Dogs are permitted in this area of the campground and honestly they were all well behaved."
from $20 - $57 / 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."
"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"Lots of trails to hike. Decent camp store."
"The site itself was fairly uneven and rocky so we had to always use caution when walking around the site but it added to the rugged experience."
"The rustic section was located around a large loop with each site ranging in a few feet from the car-friendly loop to about the 50 foot walk where our site was located."
from $16 - $18 / night
Check Availability"Easy access to camp ground. The check in process was just to drive to the site and set up which was different but very easy. The sites are private on the sides with some green space to play on."
"If you are not the camping type you can stay at the Nature Inn and enjoy the beautiful lodge in an amazing location! Definitely tops on our list of state parks in Pennsylvania!"
from $22 - $62 / 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
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ScoutWow, the weekends were fun. They were quite a bit of people there and my kids had a good time. The weekdays were different story we were told we had to be quiet. We had a lot of craziness go on
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.
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.
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
TravelerThis campground (now named "Orchard Station Campground" is under new management, and is open all year (I think). They are in the process of upgrading sites with new utility lines and level gravel pads.
Owner was very friendly & helpful.
Allowed me to charge my Rivian onsite (I paid him for the extra power).
Adjacent huge cemetery site is accessible via a goat path at the back of the campground and provided a great place to walk our dog every day.
We were attending the Alleghany Ukulele Soiree at the Altoona Grand Hotel, and this was a perfect spot (less than 5 minutes away).
Will definitely return!!
TravelerNice campground, level site, very clean. (Here early in season though!) $40/night. Lost a star for the long and steep incline walk to the bathrooms. Accessibility note: Careful if you have mobility issues. Many of the sites are terraced and require using steps.
GuideSite SS007 sits roughly two miles off pavement along a fairly rough access road. A standard Ford Explorer handled the drive without trouble, though bringing a trailer would likely only be practical if it is set up for overlanding conditions.
The location offers excellent views of the Susquehanna River and exceptionally clear night skies with strong stargazing opportunities. There was no existing fire ring on site, so we built one using nearby stones. The site does not include a picnic table or other amenities, making it a primative experience.
Cell service was limited but usable, averaging about one bar with AT&T and two bars with T-Mobile.
Overall, it is a quiet, scenic roadside site best suited for campers comfortable with minimal facilities and no other people around.
TravelerIve camped at Black Moshannon State Park many times both in a tent and our camper. The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites. It is well cared for and clean. The bathhouses are nice and well maintained. The Park itself offers a lot to do with fishing. Hiking, the beach, kayak rentals, etc. I've never had a bad time at Black Moshannon and will keep coming back.
TravelerWe camped for the first time here in June 2025 for a few nights. The lower campground is nicely situated right next to the creek, perfect for fishing. I will say some of the sites a very tight if you have a large camper. The bathhouse was very clean and modern. The state park itself is okay. Not one of my favorites.
Campers seeking a campsite near Philipsburg, Pennsylvania can explore destinations set within the Allegheny Plateau region at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal transitions with fall colors peaking mid-October and spring thaws typically occurring by mid-April. Night temperatures drop considerably even in summer, often falling 20-30 degrees below daytime highs.
Paddle dark waters: Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers a distinctive 250-acre lake for kayaking with uniquely colored water. "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding," notes Matthew U. The lake's dark color comes from past iron ore mining, as one camper explains: "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
Disc golf access: Curwensville Lake Campground provides disc golf facilities along with fishing and canoeing opportunities. "Solo with my dog and my canoe. Had a great time I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so i played more game then fished. The dog swimming area was pretty cool," reports Daniel S.
Educational programs: Black Moshannon's ranger-led activities offer learning opportunities throughout camping season. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," says Lisa L. These programs are typically available from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
Seclusion options: Woodland Campground offers park-like settings with lake access. "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. Nice fishing pond (catch and release)," writes Paul Y. The campground remains open from April 1 to November 15.
Outdoor education: Prince Gallitzin State Park Crooked Run Campground supports educational camping opportunities. "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event. The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls," explains Nicole F.
Wildlife viewing: The region near Philipsburg provides exceptional wildlife spotting opportunities, particularly at Parker Dam State Park. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Quiet low tea office campground... Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal," shares Travis S. Optimal wildlife viewing occurs during early morning and evening hours.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies significantly at camping areas throughout the region. At Bald Eagle State Park Primitive Camping Area, remote spots have limited reception. If staying connected is important, request campsites near the main entrance or bathhouse areas.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. about Black Moshannon. State park campgrounds typically accept reservations up to 11 months in advance.
Seasonal weather considerations: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "This trip was chilly at night, but gorgeous weather during the day," reports one camper about Parker Dam State Park in September. Spring camping often encounters wet conditions while fall brings earlier sunsets but fewer insects.
Beach options: Curwensville Lake Recreation Area provides family-friendly facilities. "Stayed here for a night at an electric site to charge up. Our kiddo loved playing at the playground right by our campsite. Clean campground, clean bathrooms, no privacy but not right on top of each other. Lots of trails to hike. Decent camp store," writes AdventureStang.
Child-specific amenities: Crooked Run Campground offers dedicated family recreation areas. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids," says Jackie W. The BMX track is available for use during regular park hours.
Cabin alternatives: Some locations offer cabin rentals as alternatives to tent camping. "My family and I stayed here one night during a motorcycle trip. We rented 1 of the cabins they have on the property and it was great all of us fit comfortably we were able to have a campfire out front and sit at a picnic table," shares Danielle W. about Black Moshannon. Cabin reservations should be made 6-12 months in advance.
Site selection strategy: Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground requires careful site selection. "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... They should put in tent pads," warns Casey L. Sites 11-14 typically offer the most level parking for larger vehicles.
RV access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. "Very pretty campground with a nice clean wash house.. The sites are situated nicely, your neighbors are not 'right there'. Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road," advises Sandi G. about accessing Black Moshannon.
Hookup availability: Locations offer varying degrees of RV 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," notes J K. The most recently renovated electric sites can be found in the Rhododendron Loop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I rent an RV in Philipsburg, Pennsylvania?
While there aren't RV rental facilities directly in Philipsburg, nearby options exist. Lake Raystown Resort is a good resource for RV information in the region. Woodland Campground may offer rental information as well. Many campers opt to rent from larger cities nearby like State College or Altoona and drive to Philipsburg. National rental companies like Cruise America and RVshare also serve the region, allowing you to reserve online and pick up your RV before heading to your destination campground.
What campgrounds are available near Philipsburg, Pennsylvania?
Several excellent campgrounds are located near Philipsburg. Black Moshannon State Park Campground offers both rustic and modern cabins with comfortable amenities and is known for its peaceful setting. Bald Eagle State Park provides options including the Russell P. Letterman Campground with private sites, asphalt parking pads, and electric hookups, plus a primitive camping area for a more rugged experience. Other nearby options include Hemlock Acres Camp Ground, Greenwood Furnace State Park, Prince Gallitzin State Park, and Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground.
Which is the most popular campground near Philipsburg, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Philipsburg, PA is Black Moshannon State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 25 reviews.
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