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The Pennsylvania Wilds region surrounding Renovo contains multiple state park campgrounds featuring varied amenities and environments. Kettle Creek State Park offers two distinct camping areas—the Lower Campground situated along the creek with electric hookups, and the Upper Campground overlooking the reservoir. Ole Bull State Park, approximately 20 miles from Renovo, provides tent and RV sites as well as a cabin option in a forested setting. Hyner Run State Park features creekside camping with modern facilities and access to hiking trails. These established campgrounds generally accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin rentals.
Most state parks in the region operate seasonally, with full services typically available from April through mid-December. Electric hookups are common at designated sites, though water hookups are limited to fill stations rather than individual site connections. Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges for larger RVs, particularly in the upper areas of Kettle Creek where space constraints exist. Visitors should be aware of the prevalent wildlife, including timber rattlesnakes observed by campers. Cell service can be spotty throughout the area, with coverage dropping in certain park locations. A camper noted: "This is in the beautiful PA mountains and not far from Elk Visitor Center. The sites we had was beautiful, it backed up to the creek and was right next to the dam."
Waterfront sites rank among the most sought-after camping locations in the region, with several reviewers highlighting creek-side spots at both Kettle Creek and Ole Bull. The proximity to fishing access directly from campsites represents a significant draw for many visitors. Sites backing to Kettle Creek allow for kayak launching and provide the soothing sounds of flowing water. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area's parks, with campers reporting elk, deer, eagles, and bear sightings. While the developed campgrounds provide amenities like electric hookups and shower facilities, the setting remains deeply immersed in nature. According to one visitor, the Upper Campground at Kettle Creek has "a rustic feel, beautiful views and is a great location for wildlife encounters," making it ideal for those seeking a more remote experience while still enjoying some conveniences.
"Large reservoir lake part of park 3 mi up from lower campground for more fishing/kayaking/electric trolling motors. Lots of wildlife; PA elk , Bald eagles. Be aware of timber rattlesnakes in area."
"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."
from $31 / night
Check Availability"There are nice trails all around and it is a worthwhile stop."
"Nice picnic areas and some trails. Worth the drive."
from $24 - $33 / night
Check Availability"Electric sites are available with water access to fill tanks but no water hookups. "
"Ole Bull State Park and the Surrounding  Susquehannock State Forest are breathtaking and certainly live up Potter County’s nickname of Gods Country."
from $24 - $43 / night
Check Availability"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!"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"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!"
from $26 - $33 / night
Check Availability"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.)"
from $22 - $29 / 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 $26 - $113 / night
Check Availability"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 $20 - $22 / night
Check Availability"Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided. Well maintained and clean. So many outdoor activities abound."
"Very nice PA State Park Campground. 30/50A pedestals, but water is available only at scattered nearby potable hydrants to fill tanks."
from $24 - $80 / night
Check Availability"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!"
from $24 - $33 / night
Check Availability
GuideIts was great, we stayed in new area, sites had ample room, not many trees at our spot so summer there wouldnt be much shade but we were next to a retention pond/drainage. We brought our dig whole loved running through there.
Not much to say besides it was clean, not crowded (in November) and decent spacing between sites
GuideIt was overall good, Nice amenities, pool was clean (3ft-5ft) Splash pad, air pillow, playground, pond, etc
It has nice wooded areas but very compact, if you have a large camper id be concerned with trying to make some turns on the upper area
ScoutMicheal met us with a welcome packet, delivered campwood at a very reasonable price (and loaned us a hatchet), clean facilities and hot shower were a bonus!
Very responsive to messages and an overall delightful experience. Great bird watching and a huge herd of deer came to visit too.
GuideStayed for 2 nights with my pup. Nice, private, walk up tent sites maybe 50 yards or so from the road. Didn’t find too much to do trails wise at the campground but the pond nearby has some lovely views and the park across the bridge has a nice beach for swimming.
RangerFabulous campground, off the beaten path. Stayed here 2 nights and enjoyed walking to the beach and hiking some of the extensive trail system. Campsites are well spaced and private. Although most are on on a slight hill, our parking spot was level and it appeared most others were as well.
ScoutQuiet spot along the river with a nice restaurant, pool, and live music regularly.
TravelerThey have 30 amp sites. No water but there is a dump station. Bring your Starlink there is no cell signal. Bathrooms are decent. Good Stargazing(head to nearby Cherry Springs). This is one of the most “out of the way” places in the eastern US. Not quite boon docking but close. There is a guy on the corner that sells firewood. Download maps to get in and out. Listen for the Elk. Watch for Bears.
TravelerLeonard Harrison State Park sits directly on the ridge of the Pine Creek Gorge, also known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Great hiking trails 800 feet down into the gorge where there is a flat rail trail of 65 miles for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The campsites are roomy and set far apart. There are only about 30 sites and just 8 of them or so have electric. Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located and very clean. No cell service whatsoever, so bring your board games and cards.
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.
Camping areas around Renovo sit within the Pennsylvania Wilds at elevations between 800-2300 feet, characterized by dense forests and frequent wildlife sightings. The camping season typically runs April through mid-December, with July temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 50-60°F at night. Cell service throughout the region remains inconsistent, with most campgrounds having limited to no coverage.
Stargazing at Cherry Springs: Located about 35 minutes from Renovo, Cherry Springs State Park offers world-class dark sky viewing. "Cherry Springs had a great campground with decent space between campsites. 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," notes Taylor K. from Cherry Springs State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing at Sinnemahoning: Approximately 25 miles northwest of Renovo, this park features a dedicated wildlife viewing area. "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!" shares Paula L. from Sinnemahoning State Park Campground.
Mountain biking events: Some parks host competitive biking events. According to Travis S. at Ole Bull State Park: "the Park Manager held a 12 hour mountain bike race from the park. The first year we camped in tents and the second year of the race we had the one and only cabin in the park. It was beautiful."
Access to quiet waterways: Campers value the ability to kayak directly from their sites. "All sites gorgeous with Lower Campground #25 the best, also 3-6 very nice, right on the water. Awesome kayaking in creek above & below reservoir as well as res itself. Great fishing too!" reports Rebecca E. from Lower Campground — Kettle Creek State Park.
Dark skies for astronomy: The region offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities beyond just Cherry Springs. Bill G. writes about Lyman Run State Park Campground: "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."
Primitive camping options: Some campers prefer the more remote sections. "Stayed in Primitive Area with RV which is MUCH QUIETER & MUCH MORE PRIVATE with many trees than the full hookups down in the main park area. The developed Campground is very 'exposed' - not private, sites close to each other, no trees," explains Rebecca E. about Bald Eagle State Park.
Seasonal wildlife hazards: Rattlesnakes are common in warmer months. A camper at Hyner Run notes: "The only downside to the area is the quantity of timber rattle snakes that we encountered, one at our site and one in the woods nearby. Something to keep in mind if you have pets or small children."
Limited supplies and services: Most campgrounds are far from stores. "There is a general store nearby, but the nearest town is almost 45+ minutes away. But hey, there's a Fox's Pizza there, so... win?" mentions Bill G. about the Lyman Run area.
Fishing access interruptions: At some parks, public fishing access may create privacy issues for campers. "The one major let down is that random people walk through all of the sites along the creek. It is frustrating because all of the fire pits are right along the creek which means you constantly have people in your site," reports Cassia M. at Lower Campground.
Playground accessibility: At Primitive Camping Area — Bald Eagle State Park, families find activities for children. "Bald Eagle State Park is a great place to camp, fish, kayak, boat, bike and hike. We camped here in the off season. Our kids loved the freedom of riding their bike and exploring the park with other kids who were camping," writes Jamie M.
Wildlife education centers: Several parks offer learning opportunities. Amber N. explains about Sinnemahoning: "Small, quiet campground. My kids love riding their bikes here. 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!"
Bug preparation: Insect activity can be intense. "We were in spot 75 right next to the bridge and not ideal," shares Jolene J. about Little Pine State Park, while another camper noted: "It was extremely buggy when we went. Our dogs wouldn't come out of the camper because there was no relief."
Size restrictions on mountain roads: Larger rigs face challenges at certain campgrounds. "40 ft max campers due to space/turning contraints. Not for class A rigs. Long campers up to that size should use south loop of lower campground," advises Cheryl W. about Lower Campground at Kettle Creek.
Upper vs. lower camping areas: At Ole Bull State Park Campground, the topography affects site selection. "The campsites are flat, some in full shade and others out in the open. Electric sites are available with water access to fill tanks but no water hookups," reports Kristen D., adding that firewood is "available 24 hours on the honor system for $6 per bundle."
Limited hookup options: Most parks offer electric but limited water connections. "Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided. Well maintained and clean," explains James P. about Little Pine State Park's accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Renovo, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Renovo, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 186 campgrounds and RV parks near Renovo, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Renovo, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Renovo, PA is Lower Campground — Kettle Creek State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Renovo, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Renovo, PA.
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