Excelsior X.
Guide
GuideRed Mill Pond
Pretty place
Stayed for about a week. But it has thick snow when we went
Best Campgrounds near Ridgway, PA
Dispersed camping opportunities dot the landscapes around Ridgway, Pennsylvania, including primitive sites along the Clarion River and in the nearby Allegheny National Forest. The region includes established campgrounds like Clarion Heights with its 6-site layout, Red Mill Pond for dispersed camping, and several state park facilities within driving distance. Tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabin accommodations can find suitable options throughout the area, with Twin Lakes Recreation Area and East Branch Campground providing varied accommodation types and amenities. Several developed campgrounds offer electric hookups, while more remote areas provide a truly primitive camping experience.
Roads accessing dispersed camping areas like Red Mill Pond can present challenges, particularly after rainfall. "The road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," noted one visitor about Red Mill Pond, highlighting the importance of vehicle preparation. Camping availability follows seasonal patterns, with most established campgrounds operating from April through December, while some dispersed sites remain accessible year-round depending on weather conditions. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at many locations, creating a true disconnect from urban conveniences. The climate typically features cold winters with snow accumulation that may limit access to remote sites, while summer brings comfortable temperatures ideal for outdoor recreation. Vault toilets are available at some dispersed camping areas, though amenities vary significantly across locations.
Along the Clarion River, several primitive camping areas provide water access and scenic views. Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites, though visitors should be prepared for variable conditions. "There are various large sized spots on both sides of the road. We were lucky to snag a spot on the side of the river with our RV. We had direct River access!" shared one camper about the Clarion River Campground. The more developed campgrounds in the region typically offer amenities like showers, flush toilets, and electric hookups, with some providing cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the area, with black bears present in some locations, particularly around Twin Lakes, requiring proper food storage. Campgrounds near water features tend to fill quickly during summer weekends, while more remote forest sites often remain available even during peak periods.
Best Camping Sites Near Ridgway, Pennsylvania (147)
1. Red Mill Pond
5 ReviewsRidgway, PA5 milesWebsite+1 (814) 927-66282. Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins
51 ReviewsCooksburg, PA26 milesWebsite+1 (814) 744-8407$20 - $123 / night
"Look at the campground map before you book your site if being close to a bathroom is important; ours was across the campsite behind us but we had to step in a rock set in the stream to get to it without"
"There is a pet trail through the woods that was really great to take our dog rather than walking around the campground."
3. Clear Creek State Park Campground
20 ReviewsClarington, PA20 milesWebsite+1 (814) 752-2368$22 - $123 / night
"A must do when camping in Pennsylvania. The Clarian river is great for kayaking . Multiple trails off of park."
"There are kayak rentals nearby also. The Clarion River is full of wildlife including bald eagles hunting the river and an occasional black bear nearby."
4. Parker Dam State Park Campground
18 ReviewsMill Run, PA19 milesWebsite+1 (814) 765-0630$20 - $72 / night
"There’s a little lake there, and a stream and some trails but in general it’s all pretty uninspiring."
"These two sites are shaded, surrounded by trees and pretty much private to the rest of the "Modern" campground."
6. Twin Lakes Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest
4 ReviewsKane, PA13 milesWebsite+1 (814) 368-4158"Twin Lakes is a beautiful spot, tucked away in a stream valley in the Allegheny National Forest. It's mainly locals who come here, since few outsiders know about it."
"Quiet are far from the highway."
7. Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
9 ReviewsMarienville, PA19 miles"Great little roadside campsite to get away. We spent the night during a tropical storm and got the pleasure of hearing the rain on the tent out in this peaceful spot!"
"Was able to drive in which I why I chose this area. Currently finish up the night and once the fire dies down I’ll head to bed."
8. Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest
20 ReviewsLudlow, PA25 milesWebsite+1 (814) 368-4158$20 - $130 / night
"For the most part, there isn’t a bad site (although we didn’t see any of the walk up sites, and I recommend not booking a site immediately next to the bathrooms since the ones without showers are more"
"There are paths leading down to the reservoir throughout the campground. The pit toilets and shower houses are well-located and very clean. There is firewood available for purchase on-site. "
9. East Branch Campground — East Branch Clarion River Lake
2 ReviewsWilcox, PA12 miles+1 (814) 965-2065$15 - $55 / night
"Loved how remote this location was, but be prepared to be a billy goat when trekking to the restroom no matter your site location. "
10. Rvino - Campers Paradise
9 ReviewsClarington, PA20 milesWebsite+1 (814) 752-2393$40 - $245 / night
"This campground is just far enough away from home that it feels worlds away while still being convenient for forgotten items."
"The store front has anything you can think of, and the playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day"
Recent Camping Photos near Ridgway, PA
231 Photos of 147 Ridgway Campgrounds
Edward R.
Clarion Heights
Georgina
Kelly Pines Campground
Dan G.
Loleta Recreation
Caitlin
Loleta Road Dispersed Campsite
Travis S.
Parker Dam State Park Campground
High Pines RV Park ..
High Pines RV Park
Brian H.
Forest Ridge Campground
Ryan P.
High Pines RV Park
Horizon M.
Rvino - Campers Paradise
Casey L.
DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA
Kelly C.
Clear Creek State Park Campground
Zack B.
Medix Run Camping Area — Moshannon State Forest
Recent Reviews near Ridgway, PA
535 Reviews of 147 Ridgway Campgrounds
Graham S.
TravelerBlack Moshannon State Park Campground
Great campground at a beautiful park
Ive camped at Black Moshannon State Park many times both in a tent and our camper. The Park has tent only, electric and full hookup sites. It is well cared for and clean. The bathhouses are nice and well maintained. The Park itself offers a lot to do with fishing. Hiking, the beach, kayak rentals, etc. I've never had a bad time at Black Moshannon and will keep coming back.
- Graham S.Traveler
Lower Campground — Kettle Creek State Park
Beautiful creekside camping
We camped for the first time here in June 2025 for a few nights. The lower campground is nicely situated right next to the creek, perfect for fishing. I will say some of the sites a very tight if you have a large camper. The bathhouse was very clean and modern. The state park itself is okay. Not one of my favorites.
- IIppei T.Traveler
Austin Campground
Super nice owner and very clean bathroom
First, I highly recommend this campsite to everyone. I'm a camping beginner and don't know many other places, but at least the owner here was extremely kind and the bathrooms were super clean. It makes me worry about going to other campsites. lol I think beginners can use this campsite with peace of mind. Actually, right before I left the site this time, my car battery died. A man staying nearby noticed immediately, told the owner, and got me help. He seemed to have left for somewhere else right after, so I couldn't thank him in person. So, I'd like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude. The owner also handled everything very kindly, without a single frown. Thank you so, so much. I will definitely come back here. Next time, in a warmer season. lol Everyone, please give it a try. You won't regret it!
Casey L.
RangerCain hollow campground
Nice Campground
Lots of sites but doesn’t feel too crowded or busy. Bathrooms are clean. Nice views of the surrounding hills from some sites.
Brian B.GuideQuaker Area — Allegany State Park State Park
So many memories…
We returned to the same campsite for 10 years while our kids were growing up. They loved all of the hikes, they loved all other places, from thunder rocks to bear caves trail.
You can go to this camp at any point in time, after Labor Day you can even get firewood delivered to your door. The box wood stoves inside to keep things thirsty, warm, even on a snowy day.
James S.TravelerWillow Bay Recreation Area
Beautiful campground
Went the week of April 23 2024 and had the place just about to my self. Was peaceful and quiet. Both camp hosts were super nice and friendly folks I'd definitely recommend Willow bay to anyone. No cell service with AT&T or Verizon.
Chelsea B.RangerCain hollow campground
Come in Autumn!
Absolutely beautiful camping loop. There are many others but Cain Hollow is completely open and on the side of a hill so beautiful views of the changing colors. Also good for Starlink users. Clean bathrooms. Beautiful paved greenway. Easy and hard trails available. Restaurant, general stores, laundry, bike rentals… this park is awesome. Absolutely zero Verizon service though. Heads up!
- EElisa M.Traveler
Redbank Valley Municipal Park
Mid September No one around
We came here after finding this campsite on the dirt app. When we arrived, there was no one around. There are no rules or payment stations. There are a lot of RVs that seem to be set up in a permanent location. We camped on a field and haven’t seen anyone. There are bathrooms and showers and they are open. It looks like this is the site of the fairgrounds and maybe it is a hopping place in the summer? I will update this review if anyone comes by.
Guide to Ridgway
Camping opportunities around Ridgway, Pennsylvania extend throughout the Allegheny National Forest, with over 40 miles of river frontage and elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,300 feet. The region contains both established campgrounds and dispersed sites, particularly along Forest Roads 116, 132, and 259. Winter camping remains accessible at several locations including Twin Lakes Recreation Area and Loleta Road dispersed sites, though access roads may require four-wheel drive from December through March.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Clear Creek State Park features a complete disc golf course alongside its waterfront camping. "This is a beautiful campground with site not far from the Clarion river. There is a stream that runs down through the park and bear rocks has some beautiful views of the forest," notes Peter P. about Clear Creek State Park Campground.
Elk viewing opportunities: Wildlife viewing peaks from September through November with elk rutting season. Parker Dam State Park serves as a convenient base camp for elk enthusiasts. "About 30-40 min drive to Benezette. Already booked for next year!!" shares Shirley M. about her trip to Parker Dam State Park Campground.
Fishing access points: Multiple sites along the Clarion River and East Branch Clarion River Lake provide fishing opportunities. "Nice camping but not many sites and hilly. Nice lake if you bring any kind of boat or canoe," reports Tee J. about East Branch Campground.
Trail connections: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail networks. "There is a nice loop of well maintained trails that connects to even more expansive trails (I think going all the way out to Cooks Forest...too ambitious for me) that we enjoyed walking," writes Megan V. about Twin Lakes Recreation Area.
What campers like
Small lake settings: The smaller bodies of water throughout the region offer tranquility away from larger reservoirs. "This is a beautiful campground. You have to go through the national park website to make reservations, so I feel like that's what keeps it quiet maybe," notes Kevin C. about Red Bridge Recreation Area.
Private forested sites: Campers value separation between sites, particularly at Red Bridge. "For the most part, there isn't a bad site... The sites are private, flat, surrounded by trees, and have plenty of space," explains Sheila P.
Variety of accommodation options: Campgrounds offer everything from basic tent sites to full amenity cabins. "Great cabins and very clean! So many things for the kids to do and just float the river," says James V. about Cook Forest State Park Campground, where cabin options complement traditional camping.
Wildlife encounters: Bear and elk sightings remain common, particularly at higher elevations. "Clear Creek State Park is an amazing little gem right outside of Cook Forest. Most of the campsites are right on the water, beautiful bridges, a great disc golf course, and moderate-to-light hiking trails. I will have two separate run in with bears but over all a great experience!" shares Caitlyn H.
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Several locations have restricted or no water access. "This campground used to be run by the forest service, but was closed several years ago... there were no amenities when we stayed - no bath houses, no toilets, no water to fill up our rig with, no sanitary dump station," reports Megan V. about Twin Lakes Recreation Area.
Road conditions: Forest service roads accessing dispersed sites require careful navigation. "Pro: There was a pond, campfire rings, and a big spot to maneuver a van. Neutral: No amenities. Con: the road in was bumpy with a lot of pot holes," explains Georgia R. about Red Mill Pond.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "None of the major carriers have service here, but I needed to 'get away' for the night so it was perfect," notes Sara about Clear Creek State Park.
Seasonal site closures: Winter camping requires additional planning. "We went in March, so there weren't leaves back on the trees yet which meant we could see the road (and the road could see us). Not a huge deal, just not very private. It was also extremely muddy," warns Anne W. about Loleta Road Dispersed.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sand beaches. "Clear Creek runs through the campground and is a perfect spot for a BBQ or Picnic. It also has a designated swimming beach with sand," shares Britt B. about Clear Creek State Park.
Educational programming: Nature programming occurs regularly at certain 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!" recommends Laura C.
Playground proximity: Family-friendly sites often feature playground access. "The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day," mentions Ashley S. about Campers Paradise, which offers multiple recreation facilities for children.
Stream exploration opportunities: Children enjoy shallow water areas throughout the region. "My family has stayed here so many times throughout my lifetime. We always prefer tent camping, but there are spots for RVs, plus there are cabins and yurts available," shares Laura C. about Clear Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring preparation. "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," advises Isaac R. about Clear Creek State Park.
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer partial hookups. "Current price is $10 a bundle. Ice is only $2 a bag. Closest grocery store is in Kane," shares Christine J. about Red Bridge Recreation Area, noting the practicalities of supply availability.
Size restrictions: Several locations have limited capacity for larger units. "Nice location near the water. Campground has three sections to it. Once you come in the main entrance, off to your right are nice walk in tent sites. Off to the left are two loops for tent and RV camping," explains Christine J.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Ridgway Mills Campground located?
Where is the Ridgway Mills Campground located?
Ridgway Mills Campground is located in the scenic Pennsylvania Wilds region near Ridgway. The area is situated between two mountains in Elk County, with the campground positioned to provide easy access to both the Allegheny National Forest and Elk State Forest. Red Bridge Recreation Area - Allegheny National Forest is a highly-rated campground in this vicinity with well-maintained sites. The region is known for its proximity to the Clarion River, making it ideal for water activities like kayaking and fishing. The campground's location also serves as an excellent base for exploring the Pennsylvania Elk Range, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially during the fall bugling season.
What are the reservation requirements for camping in Ridgway?
What are the reservation requirements for camping in Ridgway?
Reservation requirements for Ridgway area campgrounds vary by location. Most public campgrounds like Cook Forest State Park Campground & Cabins require reservations, especially during peak seasons (late spring through early fall). Reservations can typically be made up to 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania state park reservation system. Austin Campground, a private facility in the area, accepts both reservations and walk-ins when space is available. For many campgrounds, holiday weekends and summer months fill quickly, so early booking is recommended. Some locations offer both reservable sites and first-come, first-served options. Always check specific campground policies, as reservation windows, deposit requirements, and cancellation policies vary by location.
What amenities are available at Ridgway campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Ridgway campgrounds?
Campgrounds in the Ridgway area offer diverse amenities for all camping styles. Clear Creek State Park Campground provides tent and RV sites, rustic cabins, yurts, and clean restroom/shower facilities. The park sits along the Clarion River with paddle-in sites available. For a more secluded experience, Upper Campground — Kettle Creek State Park offers electric hookups at select RV sites, pit toilets, a scullery area, and access to showers at the lower campground. Many area campgrounds include picnic tables, fire rings with cooking grills, access to hiking trails, and water activities. Some locations provide canoe rentals, playgrounds for children, and pet-friendly accommodations with dedicated pet trails.
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