Tent campsites near Port Matilda, Pennsylvania range from remote forest settings to creek-adjacent spots at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet in the Appalachian highlands. The camping season typically runs April through October with limited year-round options, though winter visitors should prepare for temperatures that can drop below freezing. Most primitive sites lack cell service, creating a true disconnect from urban life.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground, multiple trail systems converge. "The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," notes Denise D. Winter visitors find "the park has some good trails" that remain accessible year-round according to Paige L.
Creek exploration: Ravensburg State Park Campground offers water activities beyond typical hiking. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," says Laura. The park's natural features make it ideal for waterside relaxation, with camping spots "right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
Stargazing opportunities: The limited light pollution at rural campgrounds creates ideal night sky viewing. At Star Lee Farm, campers appreciate "a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," according to Tiana S., who notes the farm is "perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world."
What campers like
Natural quiet: The peaceful environment tops campers' preferences at Reeds Gap State Park Campground. "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites," notes Danielle C. The rural setting creates what Rebecca G. describes as "beautiful and serene" camping conditions.
Stream access: Many campers value waterside tent sites. At Long Acres on Clover Creek, Sarah A. found "the secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality." Similarly, Laura at Ravensburg State Park appreciates camping "right by the creek" where you can set up hammocks by the water.
Primitive experience: The basic nature of facilities appeals to those seeking simplicity. Ravensburg offers "no electric but there are spots to get water even placed throughout," according to Traci F., while Becky notes "nice raised tent pads" that provide comfortable camping despite minimal amenities.
What you should know
Self-registration systems: Many campgrounds use honor-based payment. At Ravensburg, KK found "easy self-registration process, and not too many folks," while Becky noted that despite being first-come, first-served, there was still "a transaction fee which was annoying for our one night stay."
Limited services: Campers should arrive prepared. At Star Lee Farm, "there's no electricity there but the owner is working on that but there is power in the shower house," reports Tiana S. Similarly, Penn Roosevelt has "only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground" according to Denise D.
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult access routes. Sarah C. warns about Ravensburg: "make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance." Chuck M. notes Penn Roosevelt has "a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap offers family-friendly amenities. Rebecca G. points out "picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids," noting that "they used to have a swimming pool but they removed it a few years ago."
Private sites for noise control: Family groups appreciate buffer zones between campsites. At Ravensburg, Traci F. reports "there are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private," making it easier to manage children without disturbing others.
Bathroom proximity: Consider campsite location relative to facilities. At Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, waterfront spots "usually book a few weeks in advance" according to Kristen H., while at Reeds Gap, John Z. noted "bathhouses were a little far away" from certain sites.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large RVs face significant challenges in this region. Chuck M. warns about Penn Roosevelt: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Tent-only designations: Several popular campgrounds explicitly restrict RV access. Reeds Gap receives high ratings but Danielle C. notes it has "a dozen or so tent only sites," making it unavailable for RV campers. Similarly, Penn Roosevelt is described as a "beautiful primitive campground (tent only)" by Joann&WellsThePup I.
Road access concerns: Road conditions affect RV accessibility. Sarah C. describes the approach to Ravensburg: "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times," presenting challenges for larger vehicles even at campgrounds that technically permit RVs.
