Tent camping sites near Trout Run, Pennsylvania are situated within the larger Allegheny Plateau region, with elevations ranging between 1,200-2,300 feet. This forested landscape experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with spring nights often dropping below 40°F even when days reach the 70s. Many primitive camping areas require visitors to navigate gravel forest roads that can become rutted after heavy rainfall, particularly during the April-May wet season.
What to do
Stream fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide access to quality trout fishing. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "there are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim."
Canyon hiking access: Turkey Path Trail descends 800 vertical feet over 1.7 miles. According to a camper at Colton Point State Park Campground, "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)."
Hammock camping: Several camping areas feature mature forests ideal for hammock setups. One Ravensburg visitor noted, "There are plenty of trees that are good for hammocking. And in a few sites, you can set them up right by the creek, which is my favorite part."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many primitive campgrounds offer privacy without requiring backcountry hiking. A visitor to Colton Point observed, "I loved that you can pick your own tucked away spot within the camp area but yet still close enough to other people."
Water proximity: Several sites allow camping near moving water. At Bonnell Flats Campground, sites are positioned along Pine Creek, providing both water access and natural white noise for sleeping.
Self-registration convenience: Most state forest campgrounds use self-registration systems. One Ravensburg camper mentioned, "First come first serve but still had to pay transaction fee! which was annoying for our one night stay as if rather the state parks get that."
Raised tent platforms: Several established campgrounds provide elevated tent pads to manage wet conditions. A Ravensburg visitor noted, "They have nice raised tent pads. It's very humid so many picnic tables have green moss."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS directions can be unreliable for many forest roads. A Ravensburg visitor warned, "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance."
Ambient noise factors: Road noise affects some campgrounds despite their remote feel. A camper at Grays Run Road Campsites noted that traffic on nearby forest roads can be surprisingly audible at certain sites, especially on weekends.
Weather preparedness: Valley locations can experience significant temperature drops and moisture. One Ravensburg camper observed, "The nature noise here is loud. If you camp on the sites by the river, be prepared for lots of noise from the rapids. It had been raining quite heavily all day, so this may have impacted the volume levels."
Tips for camping with families
Short hike sites: For families with young children, select walk-in sites closest to parking areas. A Colton Point visitor mentioned, "The walk in sites take a small hike so don't over pack!"
Mid-week scheduling: Weekdays offer significantly lower occupancy rates. Ravensburg State Park often has minimal visitors Monday through Thursday, with one camper reporting, "No one there but us in site 6, not even a ranger checked on us."
Trail difficulty assessment: Research trail grades before hiking with children. A Colton Point camper advised, "I highly suggest this park's Turkey trail. Unlike Lenard Harrison's trail it's not so easy for EVERYONE to access, so you won't see near as many tourists. It's a rougher climb but you follow a small stream filled with waterfalls down into the canyon."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Most camping areas near Trout Run feature uneven terrain. A visitor to Bonnell Run Road Sites recommended bringing extra leveling blocks as the natural terrain slopes throughout most designated camping areas.
Road condition awareness: Valley access roads can challenge larger vehicles. One Ravensburg camper noted, "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times."
Water availability planning: Many forest sites lack reliable water sources. Campers at primitive sites should bring 1-2 gallons of water per person per day, as most Loyalsock and Tiadaghton State Forest campgrounds have no potable water facilities.
