RV parks around Smethport, Pennsylvania offer access to the Allegheny National Forest region at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and mild summers, creating a seasonal camping window from April through October. Most campgrounds in this region sit on crushed stone or gravel pads rather than paved surfaces.
What to do
Hiking on National Forest trails: Twin Lakes Recreation Area connects to extensive hiking networks including the North Country National Scenic Trail. "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," notes one visitor to Twin Lakes Recreation Area.
Water activities on Allegheny Reservoir: The reservoir provides opportunities for boating, fishing and swimming at several access points. A camper at Willow Bay Recreation Area shared: "The Reservoir is a very short drive away and our walkie talkies reach back to our campsite."
Wildlife viewing: The Allegheny National Forest region offers excellent wildlife watching opportunities. At Hicks Run campground, a visitor reported: "Saw 2 elk 100 ft from campground. It was nice."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the space between camping spots at certain locations. At High Pines RV Park, visitors enjoy "very nice spacious sites" and another notes they have "a nice layout with pretty spacious lots."
Water access: Campsites along the Allegheny Reservoir are popular for their water proximity. A Riverhurst Park Campground visitor shared: "It was a lovely site situated right on the bank of the Allegheny River. It was very beautiful, relaxing and peaceful there."
Natural swimming areas: Natural water features for swimming are available at several campgrounds. At Hicks Run, a reviewer mentioned: "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited or no cellular connectivity. At Willow Bay, "There is no cel service here, and you shouldn't need it either." Similarly, High Pines RV Park visitors report: "The Hemlock loop has literally zero Verizon coverage. If you walk up to the entrance of the loop, you'll get 2 bars."
Water challenges: Some campgrounds have issues with water availability or quality. One Twin Lakes camper reported: "There were no amenities when we stayed - no bath houses, no toilets, no water to fill up our rig with, no sanitary dump station."
Infrastructure variability: Facilities vary greatly between campgrounds. At Allegany State Park's Quaker Area, visitors note "the beach with a new modern beach house" while at smaller locations like Hicks Run, "there are bathrooms with no running water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment for children. At Allegany State Park Quaker Area, "There is a nice big playground. Spot to grab some ice cream/snack."
Kid-friendly sites: Certain campground layouts are better suited for families. "It was great for the kids because they were able to find instant friends and ride their bikes around," notes one Quaker Area visitor about site 131.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs that engage children. Allegany State Park provides "lots of nature programs put on by the park."
Tips from RVers
Electrical limitations: Be aware of available amp service when planning summer stays at rv parks near Smethport, Pennsylvania. A visitor to High Pines RV Park advised: "Our site only had 30a power. Most seem to be that way. We will go back again but making sure it's not peak summer due to not having 50A."
Site leveling needs: RVers should come prepared with leveling equipment. At Willow Bay Recreation Area, one camper noted their site "is on a slight incline. A couple of extra tongue blocks would've been useful since the site slopes in the front and at the back."
Water fill strategies: When staying at campgrounds without water hookups, plan accordingly. A Willow Bay camper recommended: "If need fresh water, fill up at one of the spigots before you park."
