Camping in Rockton, Pennsylvania occurs in a densely forested region where elevations range from 1,200 to 1,800 feet above sea level within the Moshannon State Forest system. Summer evenings can drop below 50°F even in July and August, requiring campers to pack extra layers regardless of season. The area's watersheds feed both the Susquehanna and Allegheny river systems, making it a unique ecological transition zone.
What to do
Hiking wildlife trails: Cook Forest State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks through old-growth forests. "Throughout the week in the summer it is pretty quiet. Very close to the fire tower and other things to see around it," notes one camper who enjoyed the park's 8,500 acres of wilderness.
Disc golf courses: Curwensville Lake Campground has an unexpected recreational option that surprises many visitors. As one camper reports, "Solo with my dog and my canoe. Had a great time I had no idea there was disc golf, I keep a couple in my truck and so I played more games then fished."
Elk viewing excursions: Sites around Parker Dam State Park Campground serve as bases for wildlife watching. "Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal. During the eight months the timber rattler is a common site along the roads and in the trails. Keep your eyes open and respect them," advises one camper.
What campers like
Spacious pull-through sites: DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA receives praise for accommodating larger rigs. One visitor noted, "Rock sites mostly level. Most sites are huge. Dog run is ok and have to walk a good way to the trash bin depending on campsite."
Lake recreation options: Campers at Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area appreciate the variety of water activities. "Our kiddo loved playing at the playground right by our campsite. Clean campground, clean bathrooms, no privacy but not right on top of each other. Lots of trails to hike."
Secluded woodland settings: Woodland Campground offers a more natural environment than many campsites near Rockton. "Very nice park in a wooded setting. Hosts are very helpful, small store with essentials at a reasonable price. Sites are well spaced and gravel. Nice fishing pond (catch and release)," states one review.
What you should know
Cell service reliability: Signal strength varies dramatically across the region. At Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground, one camper reported, "A dingy place. The ground was swampy the only dry places are the gravel pads in the sites. I wouldn't tent camp here. On the plus side, strong AT&T and T-Mobile cell signals."
Off-season camping benefits: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides a different experience. One camper at Cook Forest State Park Campground shared, "Went there off-season which I recommend everyone do. In the Fall. Beautiful colored foliage. Woke up to find I was surrounded by a huge herd of deer. Outstanding!"
Tent pad limitations: Not all sites have designated spaces for tents. A camper at Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground noted, "It was a very small site and had no established spot to put our tent so we actually had to encroach on site 7... Everywhere else was unlevel/uneven/rocky/rooty/muddy/etc. They should put in tent pads."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking at Clearfield County Curwensville Lake Recreation Area, request sites near recreational facilities. "Clean campground, clean bathrooms, no privacy but not right on top of each other. Lots of trails to hike. Decent camp store," mentions one reviewer who camped with children.
Pet-friendly zones: Crooked Run Campground has designated areas for those traveling with animals. "We take our dog so there is a restriction on where you can camp. Some sites are larger than others. Have been camping here since it first opened and never had an awful experience."
Wildlife education opportunities: Parker Dam State Park Campground offers chances to observe native species. A visitor explains, "Quehanna wilds with lots of history and hiking borders the park," making it educational for young naturalists.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA, site selection matters. "Large campground right off route 80. The campground was well-taken care of and service was good. Pool looked nice but didn't open until 11 so we didn't get a swim. RV spots had zero trees/shade."
Electrical service options: Not all parks offer the same hookups. A visitor to Parker Dam State Park Campground reported, "The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available. Nice clean sites."
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. At DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA, one camper warned, "This KOA is located 5 miles in the back of a gated community. Signage is lacking and it's confusing to locate once past the gate, especially after a long day of driving."
