Philipsburg, Pennsylvania sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation in Centre County, providing a temperate forest camping environment with notable seasonal temperature swings. The region's campgrounds typically experience cooler nights even during summer months, with morning temperatures dropping into the 50s during peak camping season. Many campsites in this area offer direct access to state game lands and the Moshannon State Forest.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Seven Points: The Raystown Lake area provides excellent opportunities for animal observation. "The lake has lots to offer. Swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife watching and a big sky view for star gazing," notes Denise D. about Black Moshannon State Park Campground.
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: This trail system features over 36 miles of purpose-built mountain biking paths accessible from campgrounds. A visitor at Seven Points explains, "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack."
Primitive camping near water: For those wanting a more rustic experience, lakeside options exist. "This primitive campground is located a few miles from Seven Points Recreation area, but far enough away to enjoy a real camping experience without electricity," shares Deanna B. about Susquehannock Campground.
Pontoon boat tours: Free ranger-led lake excursions available with reservation. "They offer a free pontoon boat tour of the lake, reservations needed because spots fill up fast," mentions Amber N. about Sinnemahoning State Park.
What campers like
Off-grid disconnection: Many sites in the region provide a true escape from technology. "No phone service, no problem! This campground helped me finally convince my fiance that not all 'campgrounds' are actually waterpark/family fun/RV parking lots," writes Diane T. about Greenwood Furnace State Park Campground.
Historical features: Several parks preserve Pennsylvania's industrial heritage. "Very interesting history of the old furnaces. Gorgeous park - very PA-scenic!" notes Melanie Z. about Greenwood Furnace.
Secluded tent sites: For those seeking privacy while glamping close to Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, tucked-away spots exist. "These sites are very secluded and you really feel like you're away from it all," explains Diane T. about certain tent sites at Greenwood Furnace.
Clean facilities: Many reviews highlight campground maintenance. "The sites are spacious, bathhouses clean and the firewood was cheap," shares Travis S. about Seven Points campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Sinnemahoning is definitely an excellent spot for car campers to enjoy the Elk State Forest/PA Wilds region... Wish it had a nicer playground and picnic area for the kids to enjoy. We would have liked to hang around longer but it was soooo buggy," explains J K. about Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Expect minimal connectivity at most sites. "There is zero cell service/WiFi at the park, or for at least 5-10 miles from it," notes Shayna about Sinnemahoning.
Water conditions: Some lakes have distinctive characteristics. "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," explains Travis S. about Black Moshannon.
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites book quickly. "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early," advises Denise D. about Black Moshannon.
Tips for camping with families
Navigation challenges: Some areas can be difficult to find. "Our only trouble was our GPS brought us in the most difficult way. We suggest avoiding heading south from I80 on Casanova road," recommends Sandi G. about Black Moshannon State Park.
Educational opportunities: Visitor centers offer programming for children. "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc," shares Lisa L. about Black Moshannon.
Playground options: Several campgrounds include play areas. "Ridge camp...has a playground near the sites at the entrance," notes Travis S. about Seven Points.
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond standard camping, special features exist for children. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids," explains Jackie W. about Prince Gallitzin State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Not all campsite configurations work equally well for RVs. "Definitely look at pictures of your site before reserving. The distance between spots was good. Roads were a little narrow but manageable," advises Greg J. about Bald Eagle State Park.
Water hookup variations: Infrastructure differs between parks. "I'm not sure about other sites, but we did not have a water hookup, just a spigot we could fill from. The dump station worked fine and was clean," shares Greg J. about Bald Eagle.
Site leveling: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds and individual sites. "We pulled into Ridge Camp and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us," explains Tim J. about Seven Points.
Electric concerns: Some maintenance issues may arise. "Power pole was in rough shape but worked," notes Greg J. about his experience at Bald Eagle State Park.
