Near Trout Run, Pennsylvania, campers can explore diverse landscapes within the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region at elevations ranging from 700 to 1,900 feet. The forested valleys and ridges create natural wind breaks at many campgrounds, while seasonal temperature variations can be significant. Winter yurt camping near Trout Run remains available at select locations when most tent sites close for the season.
What to do
Hike the Turkey Trail: At Colton Point State Park, visitors access a less-crowded hiking experience along Pine Creek Gorge. "Unlike Leonard Harrison, Colton Point on the western rim of the Pine Creek Gorge isn't a tourist hub. The campsites are private and you get to hike in (varying amounts of distance). The trails aren't built up with steps," notes Emily S.
Bike the rails-to-trails: Pettecote Junction Campground provides direct access to the popular biking route. "The campground is beautifully kept. Bathrooms and sites were nice... It was walking distance to the rim of the canyon with a tower you can walk up to enjoy the view," mentions Jolene J. from Little Pine State Park.
Fish at local streams: Hills Creek State Park offers fishing opportunities that connect to the broader watershed. "Great kayaking, hiking & fishing and just miles from Pine Creek proper," reports Rebecca E., highlighting the abundant water recreation options.
Visit the fire tower: Canyon Country Campground provides a hiking trail to a local fire tower. "The whole area is beautiful. You could hike from the campground out to the Turkey trail or go check out the fire tower (It's $5 per person and credit card only)," shares Jonathan F.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Little Pine State Park Campground features larger camping areas, especially for RVs. "This is very rustic with electric options which is nice. The campsite we were at was very large probably better for a trailer but we enjoyed the space with our tent," explains Zach P., who stayed at site 3.
Private yurt accommodations: Hills Creek State Park offers year-round yurt options with amenities. "We stayed in yurts, which are round tents ($38 per night). We had a cozy wooden deck and slept four people in two bunk beds. We also had a cooking stove, refrigerator, heat and electricity," shares Joshua L.
Stream-side camping: Many campers appreciate the water access at Pettecote Junction Campground. "Our site was literally on the river, we even saw an eagle. Their bathrooms are so clean I almost swept from joy. Keep in mind you need quarters for a hot shower but I only needed 2 quarters for 6 minutes," notes Vanessa S.
Seasonal activities: Pioneer Campground hosts special events throughout their camping season. "This has become a new tradition for our family and friends. We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool... In talking with the extremely friendly owners we found out about their Halloween activities," explains Gayle B.
What you should know
Limited site privacy: Many campgrounds in the area feature open layouts. "The tent sites are huge and you can park 2 cars at each one... If you do tent camp you should know you will be out in the open, no trees around your site and NO privacy," explains Kellyann M. at Yogi At Shangri-La On the Creek.
Seasonal water issues: Some parks face periodic water quality challenges. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," reports Lee D. from Ricketts Glen.
Wildlife encounters: Expect wildlife activity, especially at night. "Our spot was clean when we arrived & we made sure to leave it clean when we left as well. The racoons were a fun surprise on our last night! We left the grease trap from the Blackstone out and they found it," shares Erik E. from Bald Eagle.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)," notes T K. from Ricketts Glen.
Tips for camping with families
Look for yurt options: Year-round yurt camping near Trout Run offers comfort for families with young children. "The modern cabins are available for a week at a time in the summer. We paid for the week but knew we could only stay for 5 nights. We were impressed with the 2 bedroom cabin. The kitchen had the usual plus a microwave, toaster and coffee pot," describes Barbara S. at Hills Creek State Park Campground.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature extensive play areas. "Playground was huge with multiple playsets suitable for all ages. Bathrooms/showers were clean and well kept. There was a basketball court, shuffleboard and carpet pool that you could borrow equipment for," shares Penny C. from Happy Acres.
Consider seasonal activities: Many campgrounds host family-focused events. "Great activities for kids. Clean. Friendly staff. This is the best campground for a family with little kids in north-central PA, hands down!" explains Henry R. from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Verify bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies across campgrounds. "The bathrooms were very clean and maintained the whole weekend. Clean grounds and bath houses," notes Chris G. from Bald Eagle State Park.
Tips from RVers
Request specific sites: Many campgrounds have varying site sizes. "Other reviewers had mentioned that sites were small, so we specifically asked for a larger site. We ended up getting a corner site right on the edge of a hill looking down on the main office and playground. It was perfect," advises Penny C. at Happy Acres Resort.
Bring leveling equipment: Even designated RV sites may need adjustments. "The sites themselves are well kept and have a big fire pit and picnic table. I would suggest getting there while it is still light out, there is plenty of room on the roads to get your rig around the campground, but there are lots of trees," recommends Gregory L. from Pioneer Campground.
Check hookup locations: Power and water access varies across parks. "I'm not sure about other sites, but we did not have a water hookup, just a spigot we could fill from. The dump station worked fine and was clean. Power pole was in rough shape but worked," explains Greg J. from Bald Eagle.
Consider seasonal timing: Little Pine State Park Campground offers different amenities depending on the season. "Beautiful setting for camping along a stream and the mountains. Electric only but water fill up is in convenient locations. Dump station is provided. Well maintained and clean," notes James P.
