Trout Run camping areas offer diverse terrain from flat riverfront sites to mountainous woodland settings. The Loyalsock Creek watershed provides seasonal fishing opportunities with peak trout runs in spring and fall. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with cooler evening temperatures typically dropping to 50-60°F, even during July and August.
What to do
Riverside swimming access: Little Pine State Park Campground provides swimming options beyond the typical pool experience. "The lake for swimming, kayaking and fishing" is available for campers, according to James P., who also notes there are "numerous other trails within the park."
Explore local waterfalls: World's End State Park features multiple waterfall hikes accessible from the campground. One camper recommends, "Do not miss the chance to check out cottonwood falls. Completely stunning location," while another suggests "the High Rock Trail (accessible from the Visitor Center) but do it in a counterclockwise direction. There is a lot of rock scrambling, but it is a beautiful trail."
Live entertainment options: Several campgrounds feature weekend entertainment. At Riverside Campground, "We enjoyed beers and live music and the next day turned out decent and we were able to enjoy the riverside camping." Another reviewer mentions "the bar is right on the property" making it easy to enjoy scheduled performances.
What campers like
Private riverfront sites: Splash Magic RV Resort receives praise for spacious waterfront camping. "Our site was right along the river, the view was amazing and the site was huge," writes Traci F., who adds, "There is so much to do. We should have looked into a pass to do more because the extras can get expensive."
Off-grid relaxation: World's End State Park Campground offers a true disconnect from daily life. A camper notes, "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing." Another visitor appreciates how "It feels like you're in another world, or at least separated from the daily hassles and vexations of society, with a wall of a mountain between you and them."
Recreation variety: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds provides extensive activities beyond normal campground offerings. As one reviewer details, "Two playgrounds, a pool, two jumping pillows, mini train, carousel, and activities. Good for bike riding although hilly." Another camper confirms "Kids had a fantastic time at this campground" with the various amenities.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Camping near Trout Run requires adaptability to changing conditions. At Riverside Campground, one visitor notes, "We unfortunately got stuck in infamous Northeast PA weather but we made the best of it. There were thunderstorms and campsite was a little flooded but we were still able to camp."
Reservation timing matters: Many campgrounds in the area fill quickly, especially during peak season. Knoebels Campground reviewers suggest to "Book early as they sell out fast" particularly for weekend stays during summer months.
Site selection considerations: Site layout and location vary significantly within each campground. At Holiday Pines Campground, campers report the "Pull thru sites are large and have plenty of space" while Indian Head Campground reviews indicate "sites weren't marked" and "the layout of the sites was odd and mostly not marked off very well."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Select campgrounds based on available kid-friendly features. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park PA Wilds, "The big playground is new and very nice. The small one is mainly two very big playsets (pirate ship and castle). My kids enjoyed both. Two jumping pillows were awesome."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer alternatives to traditional pools. One camper at Riverside Campground mentions, "Kids enjoyed the pool and swam in the river. Big huge park and tons of grassy areas."
Bathroom accessibility: For younger children, consider campsite location relative to facilities. At Little Pine State Park Campground, one reviewer suggests sites 68-70 are "prime" while others note bathroom proximity matters: "We were right next to the bath house, which was great for being able to send our 6 year-old by herself."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many RV campsites in the area require leveling equipment. At Splash Magic RV Resort, one RVer reports, "Sites were SUPER tight. We were packed in like sardines... Navigating to the site itself definitely tests your skills when you have a total rig length of 52'. Electric ran below 110 volts the entire weekend and the water had a brownish tint to it."
Tight access roads: Several rv campgrounds near Trout Run, Pennsylvania feature challenging entry roads. The access to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is described as "a very steep, narrow road with a small curve at the top. It's well-maintained but keep an eye out for campers coming down. There's space for getting by but it's tight."
GPS accuracy issues: Multiple campers report navigation problems when traveling to rv campgrounds around Trout Run. At Indian Head Campground, a reviewer cautions, "Some GPS (like mine) might take you off the beaten track to get here!" while another campground notes "Standard GPS directions for this campground are wrong, (coming from 15N they have you turn right at the end of the ramp, you need to turn left)."
