The Pennsylvania Wilds region surrounding Emporium features several state park campgrounds and private facilities, with Sizerville State Park Campground located within the town limits. The area provides a mix of camping options ranging from primitive tent sites to RV-friendly spaces with full hookups. Sinnemahoning State Park Campground, approximately 12 miles southwest of Emporium, offers water access and accommodations for tents, RVs, and glamping. Austin Campground, situated north of Emporium, features cabin rentals along with traditional camping areas. Most sites throughout the region sit within forested settings, providing varying degrees of privacy and shade, with some offering electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Camping seasons generally run from mid-April through mid-December at state parks, while some private campgrounds like Austin Campground remain open year-round. Winter access becomes limited as snow accumulates on mountain roads and facilities close. A visitor commented, "The sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space. The ground is quite rocky though, so bring plenty of heavy duty tent stakes." Water availability varies by location, with some campgrounds offering drinking water while others provide only basic amenities. Cell phone reception can be spotty throughout the region, particularly in valleys and remote areas. Campers should check reservation requirements, as many popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends and fall foliage season.
Several visitors mentioned the proximity to natural attractions as a key benefit of camping near Emporium. The area serves as a convenient base for exploring Cherry Springs State Park's renowned dark skies for stargazing, approximately 20 miles east. Campers report excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including elk sightings in nearby Benezette. As one review noted, "We went to Benezette to find elk and saw a wild herd at dusk on Winslow Hill, complete with mama and baby." Fishing access on local waterways, particularly Kettle Creek and the Clarion River, attracts anglers to campgrounds throughout the region. Most campgrounds maintain clean restroom facilities, though amenities vary significantly between primitive and developed sites. The generally quiet, wooded settings provide ideal conditions for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience away from urban areas.
"Found this location while going to Elk State Forest for the elk bugling. Was very happy to find this location. Had clean bathrooms with running water and showers."
"We camped over Columbus weekend and got to see gorgeous fall leaves, brilliant night skies, and lots of elk right around the campground plus a bear that took a walk through the campground one evening."
$22 - $29 / night
"Step inside to view elk bear birds and other wildlife! Learn about the building of the dam and the early days of the CCC camps."
"There are a few nice scenic trails that go to the lake and through the woods. Some are kid bike friendly. The nature center is great! Kid friendly and fun!"
$16 / night
"Each campsite had a fire pit and a picnic table and most had trees behind them. We stayed in a drive up site that was close to the restrooms and had a clear field near us to look up and stargaze."
"A little off the beaten path, but definitely a good find away from that light pollution and with other like minded souls!"
$10 / night
"Some sites are closer together than others, campers were parked next to us and had quite a large crowd. We started on some of the hike and wished we could stay longer."
$22 - $29 / night
"Also some nice hiking trails around the park."
"A nature center to explore and trails galore! 6 pavilions and even a horseshoe pit!"
$34 - $138 / night
"There's plenty of streams to filter water from, a lush fern forest, and the best part, of course, is the lake!"
"Perfect location for us. Quiet spacious sites. Very pleasant owner allowed us to stay even though they were technically closed for the season."
$20 - $29 / night
"The surrounding area is loaded with things to do as well if you feel like venturing out. Cherry Springs Dark Park is just up the road but the view from our tent was just as good."
"Our trip was for astrophotography purposes, and Lyman Run is only a 10 minute drive away from the Cherry Springs viewing area. Totally worth it!"
$35 - $55 / night
"Only one shower house in the mountain view entrance so it would be a short drive if you do not use your camper bathroom."
$20 - $72 / night
"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."
$18 - $25 / night
"The upper campground has a rustic feel, beautiful views and is a great location for wildlife encounters."
"It would be nice if the DCNR added some walk/hike-in sites, or even Adirondack shelters along the long-distance Donut Hole Trail that cuts through the park south of the dam.)"
GuideMedium sized campground. All the sites are large and private ish. Not a bad or uneven site anywhere. Showers and bathrooms are clean. Ice and firewood available at the host. Easy access to the shoreline for fishing or boating. Their are 2 trading posts 1.6 miles outside the campground going towards Kane, PA. They are well stocked and have everything you forgot plus live bait.
GuideThe campground was decent enough, but I would probably skip it next time and stay in the state forest instead. The campsites are not especially private and while they are not directly on top of each other, you are definitely aware of nearby campers. That said, it is a great location for stargazing and the pit toilets are convenient if you prefer at least some amenities.
The biggest downside was the lack of firewood. None was available on site and there was little opportunity to gather any from the surrounding woods. After one night, I felt like I had gotten the experience. For my money, I would rather camp nearby in Susquehannock State Forest where you can find far more private and secluded spots for less cost. You give up amenities like toilets, but if privacy and a quieter camping experience matter more, the state forest feels like the better option while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the dark skies near Cherry Springs State Park.
One nearby spot that is absolutely worth the short drive is the Water Tank Vista overlook. The view alone makes the trip worthwhile, especially around sunset or on a clear day. If you are camping in the area, it is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem and adds a lot to the overall experience.
GuideIf your coming here off of Rt. 666 the access gate is closed and has been for years. Continue to Crary Ave. Rt.6 in Sheffield and head East. About 6 miles ahead turn right onto Mill Ln., then Right on Curtis Rd., left onto Curtis Road extended, then turn right onto Forestry Rd. There are posted private property signs everywhere, just keep going as this is the only access to this area. I asked the locals and it is fine. Do not come here if you have a car or low riding vehicle. SUV, Jeeps, and trucks only. The access road is fine, but getting to campsite takes a higher frame vehicle. It is a perfect place for peaceful Boondocking. This area can accommodate 2 camp sights. Maybe 3.
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.
ScoutM9, short RVsM6 under 25’ or less big drop off. M8 tents only, M7 parking spot filled with gravel (for maintenance?), M6 short RVs under 22’ with tent area behind, M5 gravel again, M3 & M4 are together with one side good for RVs and a tent site that is a significant hike through the woods. M2 tents only, M1 good size for RV but it’s shaped like a T so you need to maneuver it in.
GuideThis is a full service RV campground with nightly and seasonal stays. I was tent camping and, unlike most RV campgrounds, the dedicated tent area was very nice and right on the river. There’s a camp store, laundromat, showers and many different boats available for rent right in the campground. Very well run place and everything looked well kept.
The sites face a small mountain wall with the river at the base so very scenic. The river is fairly fast running so boating and swimming are for older kids/adults in this area or put in someplace calmer.
For those riding the MABDR, this is only 5 mins off the trail and a good place to relax before the final 70 miles through the PA Grand Canyon.
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 place is beautiful and secluded. We stayed 2 nights caught in some storm weather but the storm barely shook us. There are 2 ponds with room for large tents near them and plenty of wood around. The nearest stores are at the rez, and the people who work there are delightful.
Site conditions: not trashed, but littered with spent ammunition and some trees are damaged. A little bit of broken glass around some boulders. We picked up what we could fit in the trash.
Signal notes: 0/5 for AT&T. You have to go up the road a bit to call out.
Wildlife notes: signs of deer, raccoon and wild dog. We saw falcons, frogs, a skunk and red eft newts. In the pond are bluegill and red efts. !!! RED EFTS !!! (Eastern Newts) do secrete toxin so DO NOT TOUCH. Pests: ticks, mayfly, mosquitos
TravelerCamping in late October 25. Spot on the River. Very quiet and peaceful.
Camping near Emporium, Pennsylvania offers rustic sites in the Pennsylvania Wilds region, where elevations range from 1,000-2,300 feet throughout the surrounding mountains. The area features a mixed hardwood forest ecosystem with hemlock groves near creek beds. Spring camping often requires extra layers as nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in May.
Wildlife viewing at Benezette: Riverview Campsites provides access to prime elk territory. "We camped over Columbus weekend and got to see gorgeous fall leaves, brilliant night skies, and lots of elk right around the campground plus a bear that took a walk through the campground one evening," reports Kate A. from Austin Campground.
Stargazing at certified dark skies: Located about 30 miles from Emporium, Cherry Springs offers exceptional stargazing. "The night sky is amazing. There is a lake to do many activities, and a beach there. ATV trails, hiking, beautiful overlooks. No cell service, so you really get to get away from everything," notes Katie S. from Lyman Run State Park Campground.
Fishing local waterways: Multiple species available in streams and reservoirs. "The park is well maintained and everything was super clean! The streams have both native and stocked trout," explains Paula L. from Sizerville State Park Campground.
Kayaking and boating: The area's lakes and rivers provide paddling opportunities. "Fish right from your site and in most cases it's easy to launch your kayak also. The kids go below the overflow and swim, just watch for snakes!" advises Amber W. who stayed at Upper Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptional restrooms. "The shower houses have always been the cleanest and best maintained of any state park we have been too!" writes Amber W. about Upper Campground — Kettle Creek State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The region offers frequent animal sightings. "We visited and got to see elk grazing around homes and nicely mowed lawns. Great end to a lovely weekend," shares Shayna from Sinnemahoning State Park.
Dark skies for astronomy: The area's limited light pollution creates ideal stargazing conditions. "It's nestled within the gold level dark sky area. This means on a clear night and with a waning or new moon, one could see the arm of the Milky Way with millions of stars- more than most people see in a lifetime," explains Bill G. from Lyman Run State Park Campground.
Access to state forests: Extensive hiking trails connect to nearby public lands. "The location of the park is near Cherry Springs SP, which gets all the attention for the night sky viewing. We were able to use Lyman Run as a way station as we visited Kinzua, the PA Grand Canyon, and other sites in the PA Woods area," adds Bill G.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "There is zero cell service/WiFi at the park, or for at least 5-10 miles from it," notes Shayna from Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Rocky tent sites: Many campers report challenges with tent stakes. "It's rocky and covered with gravel. Plenty of trees in the northwestern end for hammocks," adds Shayna from Sinnemahoning State Park.
Campground size variations: Some campgrounds offer limited sites. "The campground is very small, and cell service is non-existent, but that's what we were looking for - a quiet getaway," explains Rachel B. from Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Shoulder season weather: Spring and fall camping requires preparation. "I was there in early spring and it was a bit cold at night, so make sure to bring extra blankets if camping before summer," notes a visitor to the area.
Educational opportunities: The region offers nature centers with kid-friendly exhibits. "Adults and Children alike will love the park office / Wildlife Center at Sinnemahoning State Park. Learn about this buildings green construction (LEED)geo thermal heat, rain water harvesting system, recycled materials and more! Step inside to view elk bear birds and other wildlife!" suggests Paula L. from Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer kid-specific amenities. "The playground is very nice too. We camped over Columbus weekend and got to see gorgeous fall leaves, brilliant night skies, and lots of elk," shares Kate A. from Austin Campground.
Swimming options: Summer visitors can cool off at park beaches. "There's a beach with concessions stand and paddle boats on the lake with the prettiest skyline of surrounding the lake," mentions Jennifer P. from Lyman Run State Park Campground.
Child-friendly hiking: Short trails suitable for young hikers. "There are a few nice scenic trails that go to the lake and through the woods. Some are kid bike friendly. The nature center is great! Kid friendly and fun!" explains Amber N. from Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Site selection: Research campground layouts before booking. "The sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving," advises Travis S. from Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. "We had a full hook up site. They have pet loops as well. If you want to stay in September, book early," recommends Shirley M. from Parker Dam State Park.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate larger rigs better than others. "There are 2 campgrounds, one right by the lake (larger) and one a little further away (smaller). We prefer the smaller one," notes Peggy S. from Lyman Run State Park Campground.
Reservation timing: Peak seasons require advance planning. "It was perfect. It was so quiet and peaceful, did not even notice other campers around. (I can't speak for the Daggett Run side though)," shares Michelle L. about Lyman Run State Park Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Emporium, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Emporium, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 191 campgrounds and RV parks near Emporium, PA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Emporium, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Emporium, PA is Austin Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 6 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Emporium, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Emporium, PA.
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