The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region near Sabinsville offers RV camping options within mountainous terrain at elevations between 1,600-2,000 feet. Fall temperatures typically range from 35-65°F with frost possible by mid-October. Winter closures affect most campgrounds, though a few offer year-round access with limited amenities during colder months.
What to do
Hike the Turkey Path Trail: At Leonard Harrison State Park Campground, this mile-long trail takes you down into the canyon with waterfalls along the way. "There is a hiking trail that will take you down into the canyon. It is a mile or so and pretty steep, but well maintained. Portions are steps. There are a few waterfalls to view on the way down," notes camper Denice S.
Visit the Fire Tower: Near Canyon Country Campground, you can climb a fire tower for panoramic views. "The whole area is beautiful. You could hike from the campground out to the Turkey trail or go check out the fire tower (It's $5 per person and credit card only)," shares Jonathan F.
Bike the Pine Creek Rail Trail: This paved trail runs through the canyon bottom and passes through small towns. "If you're a cyclist- definitely ride the nearby paved Pine Creek Trail. My husband rode a century on his own on Fathers Day while here. The trail goes through small towns and has spots to grab a bite to eat," mentions Whitney W. from Leonard Harrison.
Fish in Pine Creek: The canyon offers excellent fishing opportunities. "At the bottom you will pass the rails to trail and run into pine creek. If you walk to the left to where it gets deep. You will find some of the best fishing ever," reports Denice S.
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Stony Fork Creek Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk. All of the roads were paved and sites were very large," says Greg W.
Family-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds offers extensive children's activities. "Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly," explains B C. who adds that "The big playground is new and very nice. The small one is mainly two very big playsets (pirate ship and castle)."
Wildlife viewing: Camping in the canyon areas provides opportunities to see local wildlife. "There is a lot of wildlife around. Deer come right through the campsites. Many raccoons too so you must stow your food in the evening," warns Denice S.
Proximity to scenic areas: Campgrounds offer convenient access to viewing areas. "The campground is situated directly next to the beautiful and accessible overlook area with new restrooms and completely new outdoor area to explore the canyon views and get direct access to hiking trails," reports Whitney W.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Connectivity varies substantially throughout the region. "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," mentions Brandon W. from Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close by late October. Colton Point is open "2nd Friday April to 3rd Sunday October" according to park information.
Limited reservations at some locations: Not all parks allow advance booking. "It doesn't have modern bathrooms, and you can't pre-book your stay," notes Sadie S. about Colton Point State Park Campground.
Steep access roads: Mountain roads can be challenging. "The entry road to the campground itself is a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight," warns B C.
GPS reliability issues: Navigation systems may provide incorrect directions. "Standard GPS directions for this campground are wrong, (coming from 15N they have you turn right at the end of the ramp, you need to turn left)," cautions B C., adding "Otherwise it guides you to a gravel road with a no campers sign."
Tips for camping with families
Choose outer loop sites for convenience: At Jellystone Park, perimeter sites offer advantages. "We always get a site on the outside of the main circle by the tower slide. There's lots of shade and optimum view of both playgrounds to keep an eye on the kiddos," recommends Missy.
Look for free activities: Hickory Hill Camping Resort includes many amenities with your stay. "There is a lot to do at Hickory Hill and everything is included in your site fee. They have multiple pools, a sprayground, mini golf, crafts, clean bathrooms and dog stations throughout the grounds," notes Amy T.
Consider accessibility needs: Leonard Harrison offers family-friendly facilities. "The campground had nice & clean restrooms and shower areas. And a larger room that's perfect for camping families with little ones so you can shower & use the restroom all in a one single, larger secure room," explains Whitney W.
Visit nearby state parks: Expanding beyond your campground adds value. "100% recommend exploring this area AND driving to nearby Kolten State Park. It has amazing outlook views and trails that are fun and run along the canyon," suggests Whitney W.
Tips from RVers
Verify site measurements before arrival: Online dimensions may not match reality. "The site we booked online had bad measurements, so when we got there we found our trailer wouldn't fit. The camp map is close but not very accurate, so calling them to book if you have any questions is the way to go," advises B C.
Consider site levelness: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. While not mentioned in specific reviews for this region, several sites indicate grading challenges due to the mountainous topography.
Look for pull-through availability: Tompkins Campground offers paved sites suitable for larger rigs. "All roads and parking pads are paved. We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront. Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A)," shares Bran P.
Check for big rig accessibility: Some campgrounds have size limitations. Maple Lane RV Park can accommodate larger rigs but requires careful navigation due to the mountainous terrain.
