The Weedville area sits in Pennsylvania's Elk Country at approximately 1,800 feet elevation in the Allegheny Plateau. The region experiences cold winters with snowfall from November through March and mild summers with temperatures rarely exceeding 85°F. Most campgrounds in the area open from April through October, with some closing for hunting seasons in November.
What to do
Wildlife viewing in Benezette: Just 7 miles from Weedville, the area around Riverview Campsites provides prime elk viewing opportunities. "An elk viewing plot is just across from the kayak launch site/parking lot. Not far from Benezette," notes a camper at Hicks Run.
Swimming in local waterways: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. At Parker Dam State Park Campground, "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat. They have boat/kayak rentals, a snack bar/camp store," according to one camper.
Hiking on established trails: The region has multiple hiking options of varying difficulty. "Nice clean sites. The beach is great for kids, good fishing, and close to the Benezette Elk Viewing Area," reports a Parker Dam visitor. Many trails connect campgrounds to viewing areas.
What campers like
Secluded camping options: The area offers both developed and primitive camping experiences. At Medix Run Camping Area, one camper notes, "Nice site with fire pit, picnic table, and short walk to a beautiful creek so no need to bring water if you can filter it. Only 5-10 minutes away from Benezette."
Budget-friendly sites: Several free or low-cost options exist in the state forests. "This is a free site with no amenities but in a beautiful area. You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve," explains a Medix Run camper.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. A Simon B. Elliott State Park visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms were small but clean with flush toilets. No showers. The interstate is somewhat noisy as it's only a few miles away but not too terrible. We really liked the vintage vibe the park had."
What you should know
Variable cell service: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. A Medix Run camper reports, "No cell service, near town with free wifi." At Cook Forest State Park, visitors find "Good ATT & Verizon cell service."
Reservation requirements: Booking ahead is essential during peak seasons. "You need to contact the forestry district for availability and to reserve," advises a Medix Run camper. Another visitor notes, "Sites reserved and it was booked solid for early trout season. I imagine same in the fall for elk viewing."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Be prepared to bring essential supplies. A camper at Hicks Run shared, "Limited sites. Vaulted toilets. No water. We filled up at Parker Dam State Park."
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds close during winter. One camper noted, "Very nice park in a wooded setting. Hosts are very helpful, small store with essentials at a reasonable price," referring to Woodland Campground which operates April through mid-November.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly activities: Look for swimming areas and playgrounds. "We had a great Father's Day weekend here. Great hiking trails, the beach is great for kids, good fishing," reports a Parker Dam camper.
Consider cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, several parks offer cabins. A Parker Dam visitor mentioned, "The campground has added many full hookup sites and there are also cabins available. Nice clean sites."
Look for campgrounds with convenience stores: Some locations have on-site supplies. "There is a swimming hole in the small creek that's great! Kids loved it! Also the river is just down on 555 with a kayak launch," explains a Hicks Run visitor.
Plan for unpredictable weather: The area experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms in summer. "It rained almost every day but only for a half hour or so and went back to being sunny," notes a Medix Run camper.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: Many older campgrounds have limited space. At DuBois Treasure Lake KOA, a visitor observed, "This KOA is way back in the woods. Love it. Rock sites mostly level. Most sites are huge. Dog run is ok and have to walk a good way to the trash bin depending on campsite."
Be aware of road conditions: Access to some campgrounds can be challenging. "This KOA is located 5 miles in the back of a gated community. Signage is lacking and it's confusing to locate once past the gate, especially after a long day of driving," warns a Treasure Lake KOA visitor.
Consider hookup availability: RV services vary widely between campgrounds. A visitor to Simon B. Elliott State Park advised, "I wouldn't tent camp here. On the plus side, strong AT&T and T-Mobile cell signals."
Look for level sites: The mountainous terrain means many sites require leveling. "Very nice park with huge pine trees. 235 sites, many with electric. Most seem pretty level and big rig friendly," notes a Cook Forest State Park camper.
