Kelly Pines Campground sits in the Allegheny National Forest approximately 25 miles northeast of Strattanville, Pennsylvania at an elevation of 1,600 feet. The area experiences cold winters with significant snowfall and mild summers, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season. The campground is situated along the Clarion River, providing water access for both horses and campers.
What to do
Trail exploration: Numerous hiking and horseback riding trails branch out from Hearts Content Recreation Area, offering routes through old-growth forest. "There are 3 nice hiking trails, including one all-season trail that converts to a cross-country skiing trail in the snowy months," notes Matthew, who highlights the campground's unique features.
Mushroom hunting: The forests around Two Mile Run County Park offer exceptional mushroom foraging during warmer months. "Shen staying at two mile you will find the sites are separated by trees and offer you your own little private area. The prices are good and you truly are in nature," explains John S., emphasizing the area's natural setting.
Fishing spots: Multiple access points along the Allegheny River and smaller streams provide fishing opportunities near campgrounds. "There is a small pond for sunfish / bass fishing," reports Danielle V. about Oil Creek Family Campground, adding that "Oil Creek - which is really a river - runs right down the middle of the park. It is a stocked creek and it's great for both trout and bass fishing."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds near Strattanville offer secluded camping spots separated by natural barriers. "Some are large enough for large RV's. There are no showers. Bathrooms are vault toilets. Two of the sites include Adirondack type shelters," explains Bill G. about Hearts Content Recreation Area.
Organized activities: Several campgrounds host regular events for visitors. At Oil Creek Family Campground, "They have a large pool; a few llamas that the kids can feed and pet; a 27-hole disc golf course primarily in the woods near and around the campground property," according to Danielle V., who visited with her family.
Disconnected experience: Limited cellular coverage throughout the region allows for genuine unplugged camping. "Quiet and no cellular to distract," mentions Debra D. about her stay at Kelly Pines Campground, appreciating the opportunity to focus on outdoor activities without technological distractions.
What you should know
Water availability: Most equestrian campsites offer non-potable water for horses but limited drinking water for humans. According to Casey L., at Danner Primitive Campground, "There is a spring for water which says to boil before drinking," highlighting the need to prepare for water treatment.
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets are standard at most campgrounds in the area, with varying levels of maintenance. "The campground has a couple pit toilets that have been very well maintained by campground hosts each year we've been there. Zero smell or problems here, they appear to be looked after daily," reports Matthew about Hearts Content Recreation Area.
Camping permits: Some locations require advance reservations or permits for overnight stays. At Danner Primitive Campground, "This is meant more to be a stop along a paddling or hiking trip than a destination camping trip - you must get a permit to stay more than one night. They are first come first serve," explains Casey L.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Select campgrounds with dedicated recreational facilities for children. According to Jim C., Big Country Campground offers "Lots of activities, tons of nearby attractions, fishing, hunting, and hiking. Great store and owners, a nice place to visit," making it suitable for family outings.
Easy access sites: For families with young children, choose campgrounds with drive-up sites rather than backcountry locations. Joanie B. notes that at Two Mile Run County Park, "Every site has plenty of room. Campground overall is quiet. And most if not all of the full hookups are pull throughs," providing convenient setup for families with children and gear.
Seasonal considerations: Plan family camping trips during peak season when facilities are fully operational. "My family stayed over Memorial Day weekend. It was so much fun. They have a lot of activities. My favorite was the disc golf. Their course is really nice!" shares Lydia G. about her experience at Oil Creek Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When bringing equestrian trailers or RVs to the Strattanville area, verify site dimensions before booking. Jennifer K. explains at Moraine State Park, "Limited camping... Moraine State Park doesn't allow camping within the park and there is no campground affiated with park," highlighting the importance of confirming campground policies before arrival.
Water and power: Most equestrian campgrounds lack hookups, requiring self-sufficiency. "No hookups, about 3-4 fresh water spigots, 1 dump station and dumpster. Water pressure was very low and took a while to fill tank," reports Jennifer K. about her stay at Hearts Content Recreation Area.
Pull-through availability: RVers should seek campgrounds with suitable access roads and pull-through sites. At Two Mile Run County Park, "most if not all of the full hookups are pull throughs," according to Joanie B., making it easier to position larger vehicles without difficulty.
Traveler
