Parker Dam State Park Campground sits in the heart of Pennsylvania Wilds, a region where campers can spot wildlife including elk and timber rattlesnakes. The campground provides 16 rustic cabins that accommodate pets alongside numerous tent and RV sites. Most campgrounds in the region maintain limited cell service, with some areas having no coverage at all, particularly in more remote forest locations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Benezette: Located about 30 minutes from Parker Dam State Park Campground, visitors can observe Pennsylvania's elk population. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Quiet low tea office campground... Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal," notes Travis S.
Hiking through Quehanna Wild Area: The trails bordering Parker Dam offer diverse terrain for all skill levels. "Quehanna wilds with lots of history and hiking boarders the park," mentions Travis S., while highlighting that "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."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing access, with Prince Gallitzin State Park Crooked Run Campground providing lake access. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals," writes Jackie W. The area's streams and lakes support trout fishing throughout the camping season.
What campers like
Natural settings with wildlife encounters: Cook Forest State Park Campground offers sites surrounded by tall trees. Gary P. shares, "Beautiful park with huge pine trees. 235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly." Many campers report deer sightings at dawn, with one reviewer noting, "Woke up to find I was surrounded by a huge herd of deer. Outstanding!"
Waterfront activities: Many campgrounds feature lake access for swimming and boating. At Parker Dam, J K. reports, "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat. Several picnic shelters are for rent if your looking for a place to have your reunion or annual company picnic."
Quiet, secluded atmosphere: Clearview Campground provides peaceful sites with minimal noise. J M. states, "Beautiful view and easy to get in and out. No restrooms but that's due to COVID. Would absolutely recommend!" Many campgrounds in the region maintain distance between sites, creating a more private camping experience.
What you should know
Limited services in remote areas: Medix Run Camping Area offers primitive camping with minimal facilities. "This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve. Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no water if you can filter it," advises Joann&WellsThePup I.
Weather considerations: The region experiences frequent brief rainfall even during summer months. A camper at Medix Run notes, "It rained almost every day but only for a half hour or so and went back to being sunny. Bring bug spray and tick collars for your pets."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons. For Parker Dam, Shirley M. advises, "If you want to stay in September, book early. Limited cell service." State park campgrounds typically open reservations 11 months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Woodland Campground offers facilities specifically designed for children. "Very clean, could be a bit more level. Great amenities, boat, fish, games, hike," notes Charles K. The campground includes a large play area for kids and canoes for exploring the lake.
Beach access: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas suitable for children. At Prince Gallitzin, Nicole F. shares, "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. It was a fun weekend. We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event. The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers."
Educational opportunities: Many state parks offer ranger-led programs during summer months. A Parker Dam visitor noted, "Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls. We will definitely go back."
Tips for RVers
Site selection considerations: When choosing pet friendly camping near Rockton, Pennsylvania, RVers should research specific sites. At Parker Dam, Travis S. advises, "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving."
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds require navigating through residential areas or narrow roads. At DuBois Treasure Lake KOA, Karen B. cautions, "It is very close to I80, however, there is a 5 mile drive thru a housing development where the 25 MPH speed limit is enforced by an overly zealous security guard."
Hookup availability: Full-hookup sites are limited and fill quickly at most campgrounds. Gary P. notes about Parker Dam, "Real nice park that can get pretty busy on weekends. We arrived on a Thursday and, in advance, reserved one of the few remaining sites. Never used their facilities, but they looked nice. Electric only at our site."
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