Parker Dam State Park offers rustic cabin accommodations in the Pennsylvania Wilds region near Weedville. The cabin sites provide access to various hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. Campgrounds in this area are situated at elevations between 1,600 and 1,900 feet, with cabins typically available from April through December depending on the specific park.
What to do
Wildlife viewing near cabins: Parker Dam State Park sits within driving distance of elk viewing areas. "Small campground just inside of the PA Wilds. Quiet low tea office campground...Scenic Elk drive just north with high probability of spotting the majestic animal. During the eight months the timber rattler is a common site along the roads and in the trails. Keep your eyes open and respect them," notes Travis S. from Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Visit the dam and water activities: The dam area offers swimming, fishing and boat rentals during summer. "The lake has good trout fishing and the beach area offers a nice place for a relaxing summer retreat. Several picnic shelters are for rent if your looking for a place to have your reunion or annual company picnic. There are also boat/kayak rentals, a snack bar/camp store," explains J K. from Parker Dam State Park.
Hiking forest trails: The region offers numerous trail systems through old-growth forests. "There's so much to do here--hiking, swimming, rafting, biking, disc golf, etc. There's also a really nice playground and a great little beach at the entrance of the campground (water is always cold though!) Plus plenty of picnic shelters," shares Laura C. from Clear Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful woodland setting: Campers appreciate the quiet forested surroundings. "We loved it here! First time here. Very spacious site with full hook up. #76 Next to camp host who were terrific. Deer came up to campsite every morning. Came to do some elk viewing. About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!" reports Shirley M. from Parker Dam State Park.
Lakefront opportunities: Several parks feature lake access directly from camping areas. "A Pennsylvania favorite, Clear Creek State Park is a beautifully maintained, scenic park, right on the Clarion River in the Clear Creek State Park. The Park offers movies on an outdoor screen, regular nature talks and walks and has an onsite museum," writes Britt B. about Clear Creek State Park.
Clean facilities: Many cabins have access to well-maintained bath facilities. "Large campground right off route 80. The campground was well-taken care of and service was good. Pool looked nice but didn't open until 11 so we didn't get a swim," notes Julie K. about DuBois/Treasure Lake KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Plan for temperature variations during spring and fall. "This trip was chilly at night, but gorgeous weather during the day. Bathroom/shower houses are a bit outdated, but clean. We had a full hook up site. They have pet loops as well. If you want to stay in September, book early. Limited cell service," advises Shirley M. from Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Cell service varies: Reception can be spotty in more remote cabin areas. "Lovely park and campground on the Clarion River. Was impressed by the quiet campers. Folks were very friendly, but nighttime was silent...None of the major carriers have service here, but I needed to 'get away' for the night so it was perfect," mentions Sara from Clear Creek State Park.
Location planning: Some cabins require longer drives to amenities. "We visited this very well kept family owned campground last fall. Peaceful and quiet...friendly and more than accommodating. We used this as our base camp to visit the Pa Grand Canyon, Benezette for the Elk Bugleing, Moshannon State Park, Austin Dam Site," explains Linda S. from Austin Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Look for ranger programs at several parks. "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne--she is a really great teacher!" shares Laura C. from Clear Creek State Park.
Creek exploration: Children enjoy wading in the gentle streams. "Grew up going here. Day trips or weekend getaways-it was always a nice time. Love hopping the rocks at the spillway, hiking, looking for crayfish, and swimming in the dam," explains Angela from Parker Dam State Park.
Playground access: Many cabin areas have nearby play areas. "We had a great Father me Day weekend here. Great hiking trails, the beach is great for kids, good fishing, and close to the Benezette Elk Viewing Area. Will definitely go back!" reports Kevin E. from Parker Dam State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site dimensions before booking. "Sites are all paved and many overlapping with fire rings right on the line between sites. Research your site before reserving," advises Travis S. from Parker Dam State Park.
Hookup availability: Check which cabin loops have full utilities. "Real nice park that can get pretty busy on weekends. We arrived on a Thursday and, in advance, reserved one of the few remaining sites. Never used their facilities, but they looked nice. Electric only at our site. Both ATT & Verizon signals weren't bad," notes Gary P. from Parker Dam.
Winter accessibility: Some cabins remain open during colder months. "SB Elliott SP is a tiny campground with quite a few flat places to take a stroll. The sites are decently sized for the size of the campground itself, and there is a bathroom at the campground and pit toilets across the street at the picnic area," explains Danielle S. from Simon B. Elliott State Park Campground.
