Sinnamahoning is nestled in the Pennsylvania Wilds region, where elevations range between 800-2,300 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and fall nights often dropping into the 40s. Camping options range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV campgrounds with most facilities positioned along creek valleys or on mountain ridges.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Black Moshannon State Park offers excellent bird watching around its 250-acre lake. As one camper noted, "Nice campground with quiet 250 acre lake for kayaking. Good birding." The park's unique bog ecosystem supports diverse wildlife not commonly seen in other parts of Pennsylvania.
Fishing spots: Several streams and lakes near Austin Campground provide excellent fishing opportunities. According to a camper, "We used this as our base camp to visit the Pa Grand Canyon, Benezette for the Elk Bugleing, Moshannon State Park, Austin Dam Site." Local streams contain native brook trout and stocked rainbow trout.
Hiking trail access: The Donut Hole Trail passes through Upper Campground — Kettle Creek State Park, connecting with other paths for extended hiking options. A visitor shared: "Nice day hike: you can make a 7.5 loop out of the Nature Trail that starts at the upper campground, linking with the Butler Trail to the Kettle Creek Vista and returning on the Donut Hole."
What campers like
Natural water features: The unique water color at Black Moshannon State Park Campground creates a distinctive camping atmosphere. One camper explained, "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals." The lake is also known for its extensive lily pads and dark water coloration.
Seasonal wildlife encounters: Fall camping brings special wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region. At Austin Campground, visitors reported: "We camped over Columbus weekend and got to see gorgeous fall leaves, brilliant night skies, and lots of elk right around the campground plus a bear that took a walk through the campground one evening."
Remote, quiet settings: Many campsites offer secluded spots away from crowds. At Hicks Run, a camper shared: "It was a wonderful place. Was there for a week. The weekend it was full, but during the week, there was just two of us. You're down in a hollow, so not the best reception. Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Communication can be challenging in mountain valleys. At Hicks Run, campers reported: "You're down in a hollow, so not the best reception." Similarly, at Riverview Campsites, a reviewer noted "No cell reception" throughout their stay.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during prime seasons. For Black Moshannon State Park, a visitor advised: "Make a reservation way ahead of your date as this campground is very popular and sites book early. It has sites to accommodate any R.V. and lot of tent sites."
Site leveling challenges: Many rv campgrounds in Sinnamahoning, Pennsylvania region require careful setup due to terrain. High Pines RV Park offers sites of varying flatness, with one camper noting they "had a site in the full hookup back in section, they are very nice spacious sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: High Pines RV Park offers family-friendly amenities beyond standard camping facilities. One reviewer mentioned: "There no pool but they do have a game room that offers free games for the kids along with a playground and basketball court."
Swimming holes: Natural water play areas provide alternatives to developed pools. At Hicks Run, a visitor shared: "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it! Also the river is just down on 555 with a kayak launch."
Educational programs: Black Moshannon State Park offers organized activities for children. A camper noted: "The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc." These programs typically run weekend mornings during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Amperage considerations: Some rv campgrounds near Sinnamahoning offer limited electrical options. Regarding Riverview Campsites, Benezette PA, a camper stated: "Campsites were very large. Pulled our 23 ft and 32 ft campers sideways across the sites." The campground provides 30-amp service at most sites.
Length restrictions: Many state park campgrounds have maximum length limitations. At Upper Campground — Kettle Creek State Park, visitors should note: "We stayed 2 nights in the upper campground which looks down on the lake. We got there on Thursday, stayed in a site with electric and it was really pleasant."
Seasonal operating differences: While most parks close in winter, options like Austin Campground operate year-round. A visitor commented: "Very nice campground, well maintained quiet, clean restrooms and showers, nice sized sites, very nice owners." Winter camping typically requires self-contained RVs as water systems are winterized.
