Parker Dam State Park offers paved campsites with electric hookups in addition to pet-friendly areas, often filling quickly on weekends and holidays. The park sits at 1,900 feet elevation within Pennsylvania's Moshannon State Forest, part of the larger PA Wilds region. Fall visitors can expect temperatures ranging from 30-65°F with colorful foliage typically peaking in mid-October.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: 30-minute drive to Benezette. A short drive from Parker Dam State Park Campground leads to prime elk viewing areas. "We came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette," reports camper Shirley M. In Benezette, some campers report exceptional wildlife encounters: "Spent time driving to Benezette - about 30 minute trip - to see the Elk. Great experience seeing approximately 100 elk. Several very large bulls."
Fishing: Trout in multiple locations. The lake at Parker Dam provides good trout fishing opportunities throughout camping season. "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat," notes camper J K. For river fishing, check areas near Hicks Run where access points are available. "The river is just down on 555 with a kayak launch. An elk viewing plot is just across from the kayak launch site/parking lot," according to Amber W.
Hiking: Multiple difficulty levels. The region contains numerous trails through old-growth forests. Red Bridge Recreation Area connects to several trail systems. "Can drive to a number of nice hiking and mountain biking trails," mentions Gary G. Some trails lead to scenic overlooks while others follow waterways. At Parker Dam, "we spent time hiking, looking for crayfish, and swimming in the dam," shares Angela, highlighting family-friendly activities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Room for multiple setups. Many campgrounds feature large campsites that accommodate various camping styles. Riverview Campsites in Benezette offers particularly generous sites. "Campsites were very large. Pulled our 23 ft and 32 ft campers sideways across the sites," notes Tyler R. This extra space provides privacy between camping parties and room for outdoor activities.
Water features: Lakes and streams. Campers appreciate the various water access points throughout the region. "Swimming and fishing a short walk from the grounds," mentions Travis S. about Parker Dam State Park. At Red Bridge, some waterfront sites include "their own short paths to the reservoir," according to Gary G., providing convenient water access directly from campsites.
Quiet atmosphere: Even on busy weekends. The region's campgrounds maintain a peaceful environment despite popularity. At Medix Run Camping Area, one camper reports: "It was incredibly quiet, no cell service, and I couldn't hear any of the neighboring campsites even though they were all full." This tranquility extends to primitive camping areas where visitors can disconnect completely.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Plan accordingly. Most campgrounds in the region have spotty or nonexistent mobile coverage. "No AT&T signal," reports one camper at Benezett Country Store Campground. At Riverview Campsites: "No cell reception. Clean and very nice." For those needing connectivity, some nearby towns offer public Wi-Fi access points.
Seasonal considerations: Wildlife activity varies. Spring through fall brings different wildlife viewing opportunities. "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," cautions Travis S. about Parker Dam State Park. Fall brings elk rutting season when bulls are most active and vocal.
Reservation requirements: Book early for peak times. Most established campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during summer and fall elk viewing season. "Make sure there is a site available," advises one camper about East Branch Campground. For primitive sites at Medix Run: "You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Clean swimming areas. Parker Dam State Park features a dedicated swimming beach with amenities. "The beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat. Several picnic shelters are for rent if you're looking for a place to have your reunion or annual company picnic," notes J K. Facilities include "a snack bar/camp store, and a large modern bath house/changing building down near the beach."
Stream exploration: Kid-friendly water play. Shallow creeks provide safe places for children to wade and explore. "Love hopping the rocks at the spillway, hiking, looking for crayfish, and swimming in the dam," shares Angela about Parker Dam. Near Hicks Run, "there is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it!"
Recreational rentals: Boats available. Several locations offer equipment rentals for water activities. "They have pavilions to have picnics, every lot that we pitched a tent was always nice. Rent paddle boats or canoes. Always a good time!" explains Angela about Parker Dam State Park. These rentals provide family recreation without needing to transport equipment.
Tips from RVers
Site selection research: Check site specifics. RV campers should research individual sites before booking. At Parker Dam, "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving," advises Travis S. Site sizes and layouts vary considerably between campgrounds and even within the same facility.
Hookup variations: Know what's available. Cook Forest State Park Campground offers various hookup options across different camping loops. "235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly," reports Gary P. For those requiring full hookups, Parker Dam has "added many full hookup sites" in recent years, though these typically have less shade than primitive areas.
Access road conditions: Prepare for rough entry. Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At East Branch Campground, one camper notes "Terrible 'slow bumps' in/out of campground... a little excessive." At dispersed sites like Red Mill Pond, "the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," requiring cautious driving with trailers or larger RVs.
Guide
