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Camping near St. Marys, Pennsylvania spans developed campgrounds with RV hookups and modern amenities to dispersed tent sites on national forest land within the Pennsylvania Wilds region. State parks and national forest lands dominate the area, with Parker Dam State Park Campground in Penfield offering developed sites with modern amenities approximately 20 miles southwest of St. Marys. The Allegheny National Forest extends north and east, featuring both established campgrounds like Red Bridge Recreation Area and dispersed options such as Red Mill Pond near Ridgway. Campers will find a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, rustic cabins, and yurts throughout the region, with many campgrounds situated along rivers and reservoirs for water recreation access.
Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds, particularly during the peak season from late spring through early fall. According to one visitor at Clear Creek State Park, "The sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space." Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds having limited or no coverage. The camping season generally runs from April through December, though specific opening dates vary by location. Many campgrounds in the Allegheny National Forest close during winter months, while some state parks maintain year-round operations. Rainfall can be frequent in this part of Pennsylvania, with campers noting the need for proper rain gear even during summer months.
Waterfront camping locations receive consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly those along the Clarion River. Campgrounds in the area typically feature clean bathhouses, with one reviewer noting that "Pennsylvania State Parks have them beat by a mile" when comparing to other states. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with elk sightings possible near Benezette and bald eagles frequently spotted along waterways. Fishing is exceptional throughout the region, with trout streams being particularly popular. Dark skies for stargazing are another highlight, with Cherry Springs State Park's internationally recognized Dark Sky Park located within driving distance of many campgrounds. Campers should be aware that alcohol is prohibited in Pennsylvania state parks, though this restriction doesn't apply to national forest campgrounds.
"There’s a little lake there, and a stream and some trails but in general it’s all pretty uninspiring."
"These two sites are shaded, surrounded by trees and pretty much private to the rest of the "Modern" campground."
from $20 - $72 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $35 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Loved how remote this location was, but be prepared to be a billy goat when trekking to the restroom no matter your site location. "
from $15 - $55 / night
Check Availability"Nice sit with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette and the PA elk herd."
"Have your own little driveway to park your car right next to the site. Comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Need lots of rope for setting up tarps as trees are far apart."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Some sites are closer together than others, campers were parked next to us and had quite a large crowd. We started on some of the hike and wished we could stay longer."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Twin Lakes is a beautiful spot, tucked away in a stream valley in the Allegheny National Forest. It's mainly locals who come here, since few outsiders know about it."
"Quiet are far from the highway."
from $30 - $40 / night
Check Availability"Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"
"There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."
from $20 - $67 / night
Check Availability"Only one shower house in the mountain view entrance so it would be a short drive if you do not use your camper bathroom."
from $35 - $55 / night
Check Availability
TravelerThey have 30 amp sites. No water but there is a dump station. Bring your Starlink there is no cell signal. Bathrooms are decent. Good Stargazing(head to nearby Cherry Springs). This is one of the most “out of the way” places in the eastern US. Not quite boon docking but close. There is a guy on the corner that sells firewood. Download maps to get in and out. Listen for the Elk. Watch for Bears.
ScoutClean campground, water, electric. Saw a turkey upon arrival and a deer and multiple black squirrels when departing. Nice little store with arcade, snacks and pizza they will deliver to your site on Fridays! Heated pool and pretty nice bathrooms
TravelerA great place to spend some time. Very quiet plenty of hiking trails, the river is great for kayaking. Lots of big hemlock trees. Definitely will return in the fall.
RangerWhat a gorgeous area. Camp site has a path down to Medix Run (which seems quite clean) with a perfect spot to set out camp chairs and watch the water. Beautiful sounds of birds and spring wildflowers all over the site. Sites are well spaced. The road is surprisingly busy day and night, which did take away from the experience. Unfortunately that issue was dwarfed by other behavior.
Imagine you're sitting by the water on your campsite at 6pm, and a man is suddenly standing next to you. On your dispersed, state forest camp site. With a path only accessible by walking through the site. He tells you a beaver dam used to be here and goes into the water to fish. Weird things happen, but THREE different fishermen at different times used our campsite as their fishing base. Not the area next to it, the campsite. Even parked down the driveway next to our car.
Maybe you're not bothered by this. Maybe it's because you've read this and now had the chance to consider the possibility. However, I'd be willing to bet you'd rather not be surprised. Especially when there are no amenities and as a woman, you need to get partially undressed just to take a leak in the morning.
This is unacceptable behavior. There were other unoccupied campsites, turn offs and places to stop and fish. In all my life camping, no one has ever done this sort of thing. You stay off campsites when other people are there, unless you need help or want to pass on information.
If one person had done this, I wouldn't be writing such a cranky review but three instances warrants a warning for other campers. Good luck, folks.
TravelerWe arrived mid week for Memorial Day camping. No hookups obviously but beautiful large site with room for probably up to 30’ RV. The sites are WAY further apart than you think they are. Like spread more than 10 miles.
GuideMedium sized campground. All the sites are large and private ish. Not a bad or uneven site anywhere. Showers and bathrooms are clean. Ice and firewood available at the host. Easy access to the shoreline for fishing or boating. Their are 2 trading posts 1.6 miles outside the campground going towards Kane, PA. They are well stocked and have everything you forgot plus live bait.
GuideThe campground was decent enough, but I would probably skip it next time and stay in the state forest instead. The campsites are not especially private and while they are not directly on top of each other, you are definitely aware of nearby campers. That said, it is a great location for stargazing and the pit toilets are convenient if you prefer at least some amenities.
The biggest downside was the lack of firewood. None was available on site and there was little opportunity to gather any from the surrounding woods. After one night, I felt like I had gotten the experience. For my money, I would rather camp nearby in Susquehannock State Forest where you can find far more private and secluded spots for less cost. You give up amenities like toilets, but if privacy and a quieter camping experience matter more, the state forest feels like the better option while still keeping you close enough to enjoy the dark skies near Cherry Springs State Park.
One nearby spot that is absolutely worth the short drive is the Water Tank Vista overlook. The view alone makes the trip worthwhile, especially around sunset or on a clear day. If you are camping in the area, it is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem and adds a lot to the overall experience.
GuideIf your coming here off of Rt. 666 the access gate is closed and has been for years. Continue to Crary Ave. Rt.6 in Sheffield and head East. About 6 miles ahead turn right onto Mill Ln., then Right on Curtis Rd., left onto Curtis Road extended, then turn right onto Forestry Rd. There are posted private property signs everywhere, just keep going as this is the only access to this area. I asked the locals and it is fine. Do not come here if you have a car or low riding vehicle. SUV, Jeeps, and trucks only. The access road is fine, but getting to campsite takes a higher frame vehicle. It is a perfect place for peaceful Boondocking. This area can accommodate 2 camp sights. Maybe 3.
GuideThe campsite is located about three miles down from Cherry Springs State Park and Campground, just off the road. It is visible from the road, so if complete privacy is important to you, keep that in mind. That said, the setting itself is beautiful, especially the drive in through the tall pine forests which immediately gave the area a peaceful feel.
The site has two good level tent spots and one semi level spot, all within view of where you park, which made unloading and setup easy. It took me roughly an hour to get camp fully set up. One thing to know going in: there is absolutely no cell service at least with T mobile, which can either be a huge positive or a dealbreaker depending on what you’re looking for.
One of the best features of the site is a nice trail leading back to a creek that you can hear flowing from camp. I spent some time walking along it and tossed a fishing line in a few times. The current was moving pretty fast and I did not see signs of fish during my visit, but it was still a relaxing place to explore.
Firewood was a mixed bag. There are plenty of fallen trees around, but much of it was surrounded by poison ivy, so gathering wood took a little caution. Bugs were present enough that I ended up using a head net in the evening, especially after dark.
For stargazing, the location was solid. I stayed up late and managed to catch three shooting stars. I brought a telescope but the angle of the sky from my setup made it harder to use than expected. If astronomy is your main goal, you may still want to head up to Cherry Springs proper for the best viewing experience.
Overall, this is a peaceful, simple campsite with good access to nature and a quiet atmosphere. Best suited for people who are okay disconnecting completely, enjoy creekside wandering and do not mind a more rustic experience. I would camp here again, especially for a quick getaway near Cherry Springs.
Camping near St. Marys, Pennsylvania offers varied terrain with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet throughout the Allegheny Plateau region. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation, with particularly high humidity during summer months. Most sites near St. Marys require advanced planning for summer weekends when temperatures typically range from 55-85°F.
Elk viewing opportunities: In the Benezette area, approximately 25 minutes from St. Marys, visitors can spot Pennsylvania's wild elk population. According to one camper at Parker Dam State Park Campground, "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. 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."
Water recreation access: Kayaking, canoeing and swimming options exist at multiple locations within 30 minutes of St. Marys. At Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins, campers note the Clarion River access points. One visitor mentioned, "The Clarion river leads through the base of the camp at the bottom of the hill, and kayak and canoe rentals are available everywhere. The river is slow and serene, perfect for families."
Hiking trail networks: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the area, ranging from short accessible loops to more challenging paths. A camper at Twin Lakes Recreation Area mentioned, "There is a nice loop of well maintained trails that connects to even more expansive trails (I think going all the way out to Cooks Forest...too ambitious for me) that we enjoyed walking."
Fishing opportunities: Trout fishing is particularly productive in streams and reservoirs throughout the region. One reviewer at Red Bridge Recreation Area noted, "Nice location near the water. The reservoir is murky and had oil film from all the motor boats. Not good swimming." Despite swimming limitations, fishing remains popular.
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites with natural barriers. A camper at Clarion Heights described it as "One of the most beautiful camping spots we've ever had. Complete with a fire pit & wood available, pavilion with an upstairs lounge and all kinds of sports utilities like golf clubs, frisbees, volleyball & tether ball setup."
Wildlife encounters: Beyond elk, the region hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Parker Dam State Park Campground, one visitor shared, "Deer came up to campsite every morning. Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!"
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by location and provider. A visitor to Medix Run Camping Area reported, "You're down in a hollow, so not the best reception. Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground." Planning ahead with offline maps is recommended.
Water availability issues: Several campgrounds have reported water system problems. At East Branch Campground, a recent camper noted, "Currently issues with potable water; must bring your own." Twin Lakes has also experienced water issues: "Unfortunately, nearby gas drilling has made the drinking water unsafe."
Reservations essential: Most established sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. For Cook Forest State Park, one reviewer advised, "This is our 12th Memorial Weekend spent at this campground in the rolling green mountains of Cook Forest. You'd do best to book 8-9, yes, 8-9 months out for this particular weekend."
Beginner-friendly water activities: Several locations offer gentle water experiences suitable for children. A visitor to Cook Forest State Park noted, "The river is slow and serene, perfect for families. There's various park/BBQ spots near the creek and guided hikes during the day out of the ranger station."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Parker Dam State Park received this feedback: "Great place for the entire family. Great hiking trails, the beach is great for kids, good fishing, and close to the Benezette Elk Viewing Area."
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs run throughout summer at several parks. At Cook Forest State Park, one camper described, "Each Memorial Saturday, a meet and greet is recreated with an American historical figure. Good fun for all."
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have varying degrees of levelness and size. At Red Bridge Recreation Area, a camper advised, "Nice sites good spacing. Large sites, good privacy between, mostly full out partial shade."
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary widely between campgrounds. An RVer at Parker Dam State Park noted, "The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available also. Nice clean sites." Twin Lakes campers mentioned, "There are 50 campsites, which 23 have 20 and 30 amp electrical service."
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Regarding Red Mill Pond, one camper warned, "Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes." Another visitor to Twin Lakes advised, "If you've got a tall trailer, be sure to check the Twin Lakes page on the ANF website; there's a way in, but it's not all that easy to find."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any lakeside camping options near St. Marys?
Several lakeside camping options exist near St. Marys for water enthusiasts. Lyman Run State Park Campground offers camping alongside its serene lake with easy access to water activities. The park provides everything needed for a comfortable stay while being close to other attractions like Cherry Springs Dark Park. East Branch Campground at East Branch Clarion River Lake near Wilcox is another excellent option with drive-in access and reservable sites. Red Mill Pond near Ridgway and Tionesta Recreation Area also provide water-adjacent camping experiences. These lakeside options typically offer swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating opportunities during the warmer months.
What campgrounds are available near St. Marys, PA?
St. Marys offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Clear Creek State Park Campground is a must-visit destination on the scenic Clarion River with tent sites (including paddle-in options), RV sites, rustic cabins, and yurts. Another popular choice is Austin Campground, tucked between mountains beside a creek with clean bathrooms, running water, and showers. Other nearby options include Cook Forest State Park, Ole Bull State Park, and Benezett Country Store Campground. For a unique experience, consider Double Rainbow Farm, where you can camp surrounded by friendly farm animals. The region's diverse camping options make St. Marys an excellent hub for exploring the Pennsylvania Wilds.
What are the seasonal camping options in St. Marys?
The St. Marys area offers year-round camping with seasonal variations. Ole Bull State Park Campground in Potter County features flat campsites with electric sites available, well-maintained bathhouses, and is particularly popular in summer and fall. Winter camping opportunities can be found at Red Bridge Recreation Area in the Allegheny National Forest, though amenities may be reduced during off-season. Most state parks in the region operate primarily from April through October, with limited winter access. Fall is especially popular for camping near Benezette during elk bugling season. Always check specific campground seasonal operating schedules when planning, as weather conditions in the Pennsylvania mountains can affect accessibility, particularly in winter months.
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