Top Tent Camping near Tionesta Lake

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Tionesta Lake? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Tionesta Lake. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Tionesta Lake's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Tionesta Lake, PA (17)

    Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
    Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    2. Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

    8 Reviews
    16 Photos
    331 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park

    3. Wolfkiel Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park

    2 Reviews
    29 Photos
    31 Saves
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $8 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Private Island w/ Paddle Moor Co.
    Camper-submitted photo from Danner Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Danner Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Danner Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Danner Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Danner Primitive Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Danner Primitive Campground

    5. Danner Primitive Campground

    1 Review
    13 Photos
    20 Saves

    Primitive Camping Area; Permit required for more than one night stay.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets
    • No image available

      6. Allegheny Wild and Scenic River

      1 Review
      9 Saves

      In 1992 (Public Law 102-271) added 87 miles of the Allegheny River to the National Wild & Scenic River System classified as Recreational. The goal is to protect the existing outstanding and remarkable values and preserve a free-flowing condition for present and future generations. This designation applies to the following three sections: 7 miles from below Kinzua Dam to Route 6 bridge in Warren 48 miles from Buckaloons Campground to Alcorn Island (by Oil City), and 32 miles from south of Franklin to Emlenton. The corridor boundary runs along the plateau ridge on both sides and has extensive areas of privately owned lands with many homes and seasonal recreational residences along the shoreline. Public access is good generally from both sides and few hazards make this an ideal river for novice and family canoeing. Oak forests predominate along steep side slopes and there is wooded-riverine habitat in some of the floodplains. It contains the seven Allegheny Wilderness Islands often used by boaters for dispersed camping and fishing. The Allegheny Islands Wilderness contains seven islands stretched between Buckaloons and Tionesta along the Allegheny Wild and Scenic River. The islands are popular for dispersed camping, exploration, and viewing scenery and wildlife. They are mostly vegetated with fine riverine forests of sycamore, silver maple, shagbark hickory, and green ash. Dense grasses and other thick vegetation make access limited. There are no developed trails or other facilities on the islands. The Allegheny River is one of the primary tributaries to the Ohio River. It joins with the Monongahela River to form the Ohio River at the "Point" in Pittsburgh, PA. The Allegheny starts in Pennsylvania, near Cobb Hill, meanders into New York into Cattaraugus County, near Salamanca, before heading back into Pennsylvania northeast of Warren. The course of the river forms much of the northwestern boundary of the Allegheny National Forest before reaching Franklin where the river turns southeast. Within the borders of the Allegheny National Forest the river is fed by Kinzua Creek, Conewango Creek, Brokenstraw Creek, Tionesta Creek, Oil Creek and French Creek. The Clarion River joins the Allegheny near Kittanning.

      • Tents
      • No image available

        7. Cow Run Shelters — Oil Creek State Park

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        1 Save

        The backpacking shelter and tent sites can hold 4 people per site. A group can be no larger than 12 people and requires purchase of enough sites to accommodate your group. This shelter is an Adirondack style lean-to shelter with a stone fireplace.

        Travel Alert: As of 10/21/2022 PennDOT will be closing Petroleum Center bridge by the park office due to sever structural damage. The bridge will be closed to all vehicle traffic but is open to bicycle, and foot traffic. This closure is expected to be in effect for the foreseeable future. For anyone traveling from the south to reach the Park Office, McCrea Farm/ski trails, Egbert pavilion and the southern delayed harvest area, you will need to follow detour signs in Rouseville directing you onto Rt. 227. If traveling from the north, you will need to follow detour signs directing you to Rt. 227 into the town of Plummer. Park directional signs are located along 227 in the town of Plummer.

        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Cabins
        • Picnic Table
        • Toilets
        • No image available

          8. Beaver Meadows Rec Area - Temporarily Closed

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          5 Saves

          Currently Closed by the USFS until further notice Beaver Meadows, noted for its beautiful pine overstory, offers 38 campsites in a serene setting. Each campsite has a large parking spur, tent pad, fire ring, and picnic table. Parking spurs are level and designed for travel trailer use (no hookups). Vault toilets and hand pumps are available. No Dump Station. A small picnic area (eight units) overlooks the lake. Dead and down wood may be used as firewood or host has firewood for sale.

          • Reservable
          • Tents

          $12 / night

          • No image available
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Oak Hill
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Oak Hill
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Oak Hill
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Oak Hill
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Oak Hill
            Camper-submitted photo from Big Oak Hill

            10. Big Oak Hill

            2 Reviews
            6 Photos
            6 Saves

            This is a newly created campsite that has picturesque view of surrounding farmland and of Peek-n-Peak. Located conveniently off of Rt426 with a slight drive along a field to reach the destination. Private and out of the way. Plenty of wildlife (family of fox and usually mamma deer and her babies, can normally be seen doing what animals do. Close to Peek-n-Peak and Findley Lake and its many amenities.

            This is a little campsite on top of a hillside besides, you guessed it, a big oak. This is on a working hay farm, so depending on when you arrive you might be able to see hay being harvested. Again, this a new campsite so improvements will be made based on demand.

            To enter the property, you will use a field entrance right off Harrington Hill Road (coming from the west it will be on your left-hand side). We have the way marked for you with posts/markers so hopefully it will take you right there. Please be aware this is located on top of a hill (with a big oak, hence its name :)) and you will be going through an active hay field to reach it.

            • Pets
            • Fires
            • Reservable
            • Tents
            • Trash
            • Firewood Available

            $20 / night

          Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

          Recent Tent Reviews In Tionesta Lake

          420 Reviews of 17 Tionesta Lake Campgrounds


          • Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
            October 13, 2024

            Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

            Dispersed with a vehicle

            This is my first time dispersed camping and the spot is nice for a first go. Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area. Currently finish up the night and once the fire dies down I’ll head to bed. As some one has mentioned the only real downside is the road near by, but the traffic is at a minimum.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Kalyumet Campground
            September 7, 2024

            Kalyumet Campground

            Terrible, Run Down, Abandoned And Un Secure! GATE WAS BROKEN

            Any worker over the age of 20 was super rude and they did NOT Re-Book Our Reservation For Next Year The Website sates that it is now being managed by a company called Oasis Marianas. There Are Signs Falling Apart And They Pool Was Water Orange! The Arcade was completely broken the showers were tiny and the entire place is in disrepair. The Gate was taken off the Opener And thrown into the weeds DISAPPOINTING And This Place was NOT CHEAP And Was Super RunDown.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
            August 28, 2024

            Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

            Quiet little campground

            I have a 25-foot travel trailer and found several suitable spots on SF-160. Since it rains frequently here, keep your slip-on shoes handy near the door. This area offers great hiking and biking opportunities. The campsite next to the hiking trail has WiFi about 70% of the time. Experience duck life right now!

          • Camper-submitted photo from High Pines RV Park
            August 26, 2024

            High Pines RV Park

            High Praise for High Pines

            What a beautiful campground with the sweetest owners, Jack and Debbie! Our 3 night stay was just not long enough. We will definitely be back! Shout out to Debbie for being highly instrumental in the creation of the High Pines App, which is absolutely amazing and chock full of useful information. Another shout out to both Jack & Debbie for warmly welcoming our South African Mastiff despite her intimidating size and appearance. We appreciated that we, the owners, would be judged. Not the dog and certainly not her breed. Thank you for a wonderful camping experience!

          • Camper-submitted photo from Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite
            August 26, 2024

            Forestry Road Dispersed Campsite

            Nice, peaceful and free

            If you don’t mind roughing it a bit, it’s really quite nice. Sites are first come first serve and there is a bit of day traffic to get to Hector Falls. Which is a nice little 2 mile hike. Some good exploring. Bring tick/bug spray. Found several on my boys and me.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Wolfs Camping Resort
            August 13, 2024

            Wolfs Camping Resort

            Yet Another Perfect Trip To Wolf's!

            Wolf's Camping Resort Is The Perfect Campground For Family's To Stay At With Its large Swimming Pool And It's Large Game room It is prefect for kids young and old! It has a large store with helpful employees and it sits on a large plot of land that includes a small mini golf corse and a full sized 18 hole golf course with many activities and themed weekends that you can find on their Facebook it is the perfect place to come!

          • Camper-submitted photo from Warner Road Dispersed Camping in North Harmony State Forest
            July 7, 2024

            Warner Road Dispersed Camping in North Harmony State Forest

            fine site, messy

            The site was fine, fire pit, primitive spot so no services. We arrived late at night so couldn’t see so well but stopped in a clearing on the road toward the coordinates.

            Kind of a gross site, the previous people who stayed at our site were messy and left litter, but it served its purpose as a free place to sleep along a longer trip.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Tionesta Rec. Area Campground
            July 1, 2024

            Tionesta Rec. Area Campground

            Tionesta Recreation Campground

            Nice campground with full hook ups. Close to a large recreational lake with hiking trails and a boat launch. Sites were fairly level no issues with power fluctuations and sewer worked great!

          • Camper-submitted photo from Gaslight Campgrounds
            June 30, 2024

            Gaslight Campgrounds

            Clean, well-maintained, and quiet with friendly owner

            We stayed here for a week in June 2024 in our 42-foot fifth wheel. Overall the campground is clean and well-maintained. The owner is friendly and helpful. Amenities include a heated, in-ground pool, a recreation center, a pavilion, and swing sets. 

            The current owners have had the campground since ~2014 and have made many repairs and improvements. Water, electric, and sewage lines have been replaced or upgraded in the past few years. We had stable electric and good water.

            Unfortunately no WiFi is available, but there was a good AT&T cell phone signal.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Starr Farm
            June 20, 2024

            Starr Farm

            Very relaxing place

            This campsite was close to an archery tournament for me. It is a huge campsite that is remote and peaceful. I will try to get this place again next year.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Red Oak Campground
            June 16, 2024

            Red Oak Campground

            Super friendly and communal campground

            It was fairly full when I went, the staff was very friendly and helpful. There was a band playing in the middle of the campground at dusk which made for a great experience. Great campground overall!

          • Camper-submitted photo from Clear Creek State Park Campground
            June 2, 2024

            Clear Creek State Park Campground

            Camping right on the River with nice trails.

            First time staying at Clear Creek State Park and had a spot just below where the Creek empties into the River.  We were able to turn the RV so the door/awning faced the River.  We saw a two different Merganser mamas with young, a green heron fishing, and a bald eagle go up the River.  We were right across from the showerhouse but noise was minimal.  Our dog had the riverbank to explore on her camp leash of course.  Hiking above the campground was very nice and we did an easy loop of almost 6 miles.  Mountain Laurels were in bloom.  Very clean park.  Showerhouse was well-kept.  Bringing the kayaks next time.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Chapman State Park Campground
            May 28, 2024

            Chapman State Park Campground

            LOVE THIS PLACE!

            Hidden gem!  Love the seclusion of this campground.  Very clean restrooms.  Fantastic lake for kayaking, fishing, swimming, etc.  Currently, our favorite local escape destination!

          • Camper-submitted photo from East Branch Campground — East Branch Clarion River Lake
            May 28, 2024

            East Branch Campground — East Branch Clarion River Lake

            Enjoyed our weekend here!

            Nice quiet & small campground on a hillside.  Loved how remote this location was, but be prepared to be a billy goat when trekking to the restroom no matter your site location.  Even though it was a busy holiday weekend, it was a very peaceful weekend.  Very clean restrooms.  No signage to sites if you aren't familiar with the campground.  Terrible "slow bumps" in/out of campground . . . a little excessive.  Beautiful lake/area, but must drive from campground to water's edge.  Will likely visit again!  PS--Currently issues with potable water; must bring your own.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Red Oak Campground
            May 16, 2024

            Red Oak Campground

            Mostly Seasonal Sites

            Park is mostly for seasonal camping with family oriented activities. Pads are gravel and grass. Campground needs general upkeep. Bathhouse needs repair or replacement. Staff is friendly and accommodating.

          • Camper-submitted photo from Hearts Content Recreation Area
            May 12, 2024

            Hearts Content Recreation Area

            Peace and quiet

            Just stayed the weekend very big and private sites. Very few people so easy to show up and pick a site. Bathrooms were kept very clean for pit toilet. Water spigot throughout camp no elec

          • Camper-submitted photo from Smith Grove
            May 4, 2024

            Smith Grove

            Quit oark

            We love staying here when we visit family in Butler it’s a quiet family run park . It is very affordable and bathrooms are clean

          • Camper-submitted photo from Clarion Heights
            May 1, 2024

            Clarion Heights

            Best camping spot on our road trip yet

            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,.. to enjoy yourself while camping out there. The toilet and outdoor shower facilities are a bit rudimentary but it wouldn’t be camping without + the shower was warm & clean!

            The host & family is also very friendly and welcoming

          • Camper-submitted photo from Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
            April 10, 2024

            Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite

            Nice site, close to road and super muddy

            We stayed here in March, so there weren’t leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us). Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy. Not bad on the main track in and out but swampy everywhere else. Overall it’s a nice spot if you’re passing through but not groundbreaking



          Guide to Tionesta Lake

          Camping near Tionesta Lake, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different preferences.

          What to do:

          • Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy the water by launching your kayak or canoe right from the campground. At Red Bridge Recreation Area, one visitor shared, "The sites are very spacious and mostly divided with brush... settled right on the Allegheny Reservoir, so if you bring your kayaks you can launch right from the campground."
          • Hiking Trails: Explore the numerous hiking trails in the area. A camper at Clear Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Hiking above the campground was very nice and we did an easy loop of almost 6 miles."
          • Fishing: Tionesta Lake is great for fishing. A review from Chapman State Park Campground noted, "It attracts the friendliest people... decent fishing, miles of trails, and a small beach."

          What campers like:

          • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor at Minister Creek Campground said, "The best parts are just behind the main camping area... there is plenty of great dispersed sites passed the main campground."
          • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites that provide privacy. A review for Buckaloons stated, "The campsites are large and not crowded on top of each other... there’s a boat ramp onsite."
          • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Kozy Rest are known for their kid-friendly activities. One family shared, "The staff were polite, helpful, and great with our family."

          What you should know:

          • No Cell Service: Many campgrounds around Tionesta Lake have limited or no cell service. A camper at Dewdrop Recreation Area mentioned, "You are literally in the mountains and it is so peaceful! There is no cell service so you really get to be away from all the hustle for a weekend."
          • Reservations Recommended: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Clear Creek State Park Campground noted, "It is often challenging to reserve a site unless done far in advance."
          • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. A camper at Dewdrop Recreation Area shared, "A mom and two cubs ran directly through our camp while having breakfast one morning."

          Tips for camping with families:

          • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. At Kozy Rest, one parent said, "Tons of activities to keep the kids busy all day!!"
          • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially with kids around. A review for Tionesta Rec. Area Campground mentioned, "In the past 2-3 years there have been 'bicycle gangs' of unsupervised kids roaming."
          • Pack Outdoor Games: Bring along games that can be played outside. A camper at Chapman State Park Campground suggested, "It’s family friendly, has decent fishing, miles of trails, and a small beach."

          Tips from RVers:

          • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the sites before booking. A review for Tionesta Rec. Area Campground noted, "The site lengths vary in the CG and the lengths from the reservation site seemed to be fairly correct."
          • Be Mindful of Hookups: Some sites may not have full hookups. A visitor at Minister Creek Campground mentioned, "There is a water tap and vaulted toilets."
          • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take time to explore the local area. A camper at Red Bridge Recreation Area said, "The campground is rather hilly overall and I'm not sure it's best for kids unless they're really into fishing."

          Camping near Tionesta Lake, Pennsylvania, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Tionesta Lake?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Tionesta Lake is Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews.

          • What is the best site to find tent camping near Tionesta Lake?

            TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near Tionesta Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.