Oil Creek State Park and nearby campgrounds provide diverse camping options near Pleasantville, Pennsylvania. The region sits within the Allegheny Plateau at elevations ranging from 1,200-1,600 feet, creating a temperate summer climate with cool evenings even in July. Winter camping options exist throughout the area with seasonal temperature variations typically ranging from 20°F in winter to 80°F in summer.
What to do
Hike the North Country Trail: Access points near Minister Creek Campground connect to extensive trail systems. "Minister Creek is a nice quiet relaxing family camp place. Swimming was nice. There is a playground near campsites and cabins if you would like one," reports one camper.
Fish for native brook trout: The small streams throughout the region host scrappy fish. "The smallest of all of the campgrounds in the Allegheny national Forest, this little slice of heaven is just perfect! Several of the sites back up to Minister Creek. Home to some of the scrappiest brook trout I have fished for," notes a visitor to Minister Creek.
Visit Kinzua Dam and Skywalk: Located about 30 minutes from Red Bridge Recreation Area, these attractions provide educational opportunities. "Within a 30 min drive of Cook Forest State Park, where we did some terrific hiking on well marked trails. A farm stand in the open-air market right by the campground rounded out our dinner with fresh zucchini and tomatoes," shares a camper.
Try disc golf: Multiple courses available, including the extensive course at Oil Creek. "My favorite was the disc golf. Their course is really nice!" writes one visitor about their Memorial Day weekend experience.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Two Mile Run County Park offers spacious, secluded sites. "Shen staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area. The prices are good and you truly are in nature," notes a camper.
Night sky viewing: The region has minimal light pollution. "Perfect spot for star-gazing. So set the alarm for 2am and enjoy," suggests a Minister Creek visitor highlighting the astronomical opportunities.
Waterfront camping options: Clear Creek State Park Campground provides sites along the Clarion River. "There are also two very private tent sites that are waterfront (classified as Kayak In tent sites) numbered CR-001 & CR-002. Both waterfront, shaded with fire rings. Excellent tent sites!" writes one experienced camper.
Campground entertainment: Many locations offer structured activities beyond glamping in Pleasantville, Pennsylvania. "They have a large pool; a few llamas that the kids can feed and pet; a 27-hole disc golf course primarily in the woods near and around the campground property; a small pond for sunfish / bass fishing; a dog 'playground'; a well-maintained hedge maze," describes a visitor to Oil Creek Family Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation but offers solitude. "We have stayed at the park for Christmas Eve the past two years. Had the Adirondack shelters to ourselves each year. Firewood is available but you have to donate some cash, split it and haul it to your shelter," explains a winter visitor to Oil Creek State Park.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies widely by location. "No phone reception at this one!" warns a Clear Creek visitor, while another notes, "We got 2 bars on Verizon" at Tionesta.
Site terrain variations: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," advises a visitor to Clear Creek State Park.
Reservation needs: First-come, first-served sites can fill quickly, especially at smaller campgrounds. "With only six campsites, it's definitely 'first come, first served.' The sites are well proportioned (not right on top of each other), and perfectly situated at the base of the trailhead," explains a Minister Creek visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Cooling off options: The region offers swimming areas that complement upscale glamping near Pleasantville. "Lovely park and campground on the Clarion River. Lots of space for long walks, and there are trailheads right at the campground if you want to get to explore," notes a visitor to Clear Creek.
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature nature programs. "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 visitor to Clear Creek State Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Beyond standard amenities, look for unique options. "If you're camping with kiddos, try turning over the rocks in area creeks to find little aquatic insects. A little creepy, but a lot of awesome," suggests a camper at Tionesta Rec. Area Campground.
Playground accessibility: Consider proximity to play areas when selecting sites. "Every site has plenty of room. Campground overall is quiet. And most if not all of the full hookups are pull throughs. But seems many of the tent sites are on grades. Couple beautiful walk in tent sites right on the water. Plenty of nice hiking trails. Great beach for kids," reports a Two Mile Run visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup distances: Be prepared with extension cords and hoses. "The back of our camper was 15' from our neighbor's camper, so no real privacy. Our fire pit ring was also just a few feet from theirs. While we had full hookup, there was no room or privacy," warns a Tionesta visitor.
Accessibility considerations: Some sites present backing challenges. "Reserved site 30, which was on a corner and entrance to the loop. It was a very cramped space," notes another Tionesta camper.
Site selection strategy: Research specific site numbers before booking. "Site 100 with 50 AMP FHUs. There were no obstacles so our back-in was one and done. The site was just long enough for our 39' fifth wheel and we had to park our F450 diagonally in front," advises an RVer at Tionesta.
Level site availability: Look for information on grading. "Campground has three sections to it. Off to the left are two loops for tent and RV camping. Some sites offer more shade than others. (We were at site #31 and it didn't have much shade.)" explains a Red Bridge visitor.
