Camping sites near Russellton, Pennsylvania range from ridge-top settings to lakeside locations throughout Butler and Beaver counties. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 1,000-1,400 feet, creating varied terrain for campers. Winter temperatures typically drop to 20-30°F, while fall camping brings colorful foliage viewing opportunities from mid-October through early November.
What to do
Lakeside recreation: Raccoon Creek State Park Campground offers diverse water activities beyond basic camping. "I had the most wonderful time on my first tent camping at Racoon Creek. We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night," notes one visitor who enjoyed after-dark swimming.
Trail exploration: Trails through the region range from beginner-friendly to challenging. At Breakneck Campground, campers can access trails directly from their sites. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," reports a camper.
Winter adventures: Some locations remain accessible year-round for cold weather exploration. One visitor to Raccoon Creek State Park shared, "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop. It also was quite interesting getting to the trail. Some nice snow covered back roads."
What campers like
Mountain views: Mountain Top Campground lives up to its name with elevated sites. "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond," notes one camper about the layout.
Creek-side camping: At Breakneck Campground, certain sites provide direct water access. A visitor explained their experience: "We definitely lucked out with one of the best campsites; we were right next to the creek, it was super spacious and super private."
Clean facilities: Smith Grove maintains well-kept facilities despite its smaller size. A camper noted, "Campground is very nice. A lot of sites with plenty of room at each site. Bathrooms were very clean as well."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Operations vary by location and season, with facilities ranging from basic to full-service. At Crooked Creek Lake, one visitor observed, "Nice small, quiet campground near Crooked Creek. Affordable as well. Love the lake, there is even a little beach for the family."
Site spacing: Campgrounds differ significantly in privacy levels. A Breakneck visitor mentioned, "My husband and I camped here on a whim, after our original location got rained out. We picked a nice big lot by the dirt road. Though we had neighbors next to us, you could hardly tell they were there."
Shower facilities: Bathroom and shower access varies across locations. At Mountain Top, one camper reported, "The central bathroom, pay shower, and laundry room had ac, a couch and were quite clean."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Family-friendly water access exists at several locations. A visitor to Bear Run Campground shared, "Bear Run offers pull through sites for larger RVs. The pool is smaller but still enjoyable. Tons of activities always planned on the weekend. Family Friendly Friendly!"
Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family events. One Bear Run camper reported, "This campground is deceptively big! The nightly RV sites are close to the park entrance and are relatively flat. The campground hosts themed events, game nights and arts& crafts."
Park amenities: Facilities for children vary significantly between locations. A Mountain Top visitor noted, "The ONLY downsides at this site (which are really not downsides for anyone else without kids) are: There is no playground or activities for children."
Tips from RVers
Road navigation: Access roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. A Mountain Top camper advised, "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in."
Site layout: RV site configurations vary across the area. At Indian Brave Campground, a first-timer reported, "They escorted us to our campsite (which was larger than most) and made sure we had plenty of help getting backed in and set up!"
Hookup availability: Water and electric access differs between locations. At Mountain Top, a visitor noted, "Amazing views from this campground! Water and electric available (50 amps), grey sewer available. For the black you can dump here or have someone pump out."
