Cabin accommodations in the Renovo area typically feature three styles: rustic cabins with minimal amenities, modern cabins with electricity and plumbing, and deluxe options with full kitchens and bathrooms. Most state park cabins open in early April and close by mid-December. Reservations should be made 2-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends when occupancy reaches 85-95%. Rates range from $38-$120 per night depending on amenities and season.
What to do
Stargazing at night sky destinations: Lyman Run State Park Campground is situated near Cherry Springs Dark Sky preserve, allowing exceptional stargazing opportunities. "We decided to go mid October due to a new moon and a trip to Cherry Springs to see the stars! Ole Bull was just a short drive from Cherry Springs and they had everything we needed," reports Kelly C. The area offers designated observation fields with red-light policies during astronomical events.
Hiking accessible trails: The region features interconnected trail networks with varying difficulty levels and terrain. "The Mid State hiking trail comes right through the Campground and there are numerous other trails within the park," notes James P. about Little Pine State Park Campground. Trails range from flat creek-side paths to challenging mountain ascents with elevation changes of 300-800 feet.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The Pennsylvania Wilds region provides habitat for diverse wildlife including elk, black bears, and bald eagles. "Our first night we had a couple hundred pound bear climb the tree outside of the cabin. Park personnel came around and monitored the bear until it came down and left. It was spectacular!!!" shares one camper at Ole Bull State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campsites feature natural buffers and strategic placement for privacy. "The sites are big and spaced far apart. Its a quiet park at night, but thers plenty to do during the day," explains Graham S. about Bald Eagle State Park Russell P Letterman Campground. Sites are typically separated by 30-50 feet with vegetation providing additional screening.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently earns positive reviews. "Their bathrooms are so clean I almost swept from joy. Keep in mind you need quarters for a hot shower but I only needed 2 quarters for 6 minutes, plenty of time," reports Vanessa S. about Pettecote Junction Campground. Most facilities undergo daily cleaning with additional deep cleans weekly.
Strategic locations for outdoor recreation: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for accessing multiple regional attractions. "We used this as our base camp to visit the Pa Grand Canyon, Benezette for the Elk Bugleing, Moshannon State Park, Austin Dam Site," writes Linda S. about Austin Campground, highlighting the strategic positioning for exploring multiple destinations on single trips.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal or no cellular connectivity. "The only draw back, at least for me, was I needed to drive about 15-20 minutes from the park to get cell service," notes Andrew C. about Ole Bull State Park. Most state park offices offer WiFi near administrative buildings, but coverage throughout campgrounds remains limited.
Seasonal closures and limitations: Most park facilities operate on seasonal schedules. "Very nice park it was clean and quiet. Lots to do for all ages. We stayed here in May and went to cherry springs state park to star gaze it was amazing," shares Josh about Ole Bull State Park, highlighting the importance of timing visits to align with desired activities and facility availability.
Variable water access: Water availability differs significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "30/50A pedestals, but water is available only at scattered nearby potable hydrants to fill tanks. One is available right at the campground entrance adjacent to the dump station, but others are available amongst the campsites," explains Joel D. about Little Pine State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access considerations: Several campgrounds feature designated play areas for children of various ages. "Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages. Bathrooms/showers we're clean and well kept. There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for," describes Penny C. about Happy Acres Resort.
Kid-friendly fishing zones: Some parks designate specific fishing areas exclusively for children. "We set up camp at a site along Kettle Creek, and we saw half a dozen campers walking back to their sites with trout caught within walking distance. Next time we go back, and there will be a next time, I'm going to try and secure site #81 it seems to be the only waterfront site that isn't in the kids only fishing section," notes Andrew C.
Educational programming options: State parks offer ranger-led educational activities during peak seasons. "We discovered one of the evening talks about the eagles nesting in the park and the ranger set up binoculars for us to try and see the nest," shares Cheryl W., highlighting opportunities for structured learning experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for leveling: Campground topography presents challenges for larger RVs. "Some sites are not level at all and others are sloped such that you have to pull all the way forward into your site to get level," advises Nancy W. about Bellefonte-State College KOA. Most campgrounds post maximum RV length restrictions for each site, typically ranging from 28-40 feet.
Water pressure variations: Water systems may deliver inconsistent pressure throughout campgrounds. "Then there was the water pressure… or lack of water pressure. Saying it trickled out would be generous. Though there was a lot about the campground that I liked, I won't go back again just based on the water pressure alone," shares Gayle B., emphasizing the importance of having supplemental water storage.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance roads. "IMPORTANT— almost got killed getting just off the freeway to make the left turn towards the koa — please be careful. traffic either side does not stop or slow, and they are going extremely fast. be patient. wait for ample time," warns madeleine B., highlighting the need for caution when navigating to certain properties.
