Camping near Allegheny National Forest

99% (36 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Allegheny National Forest adventure.

Find plenty to do in this half-million-acre national forest in northwestern Pennsylvania.

Popular ways to camp

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Allegheny National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Allegheny National Forest

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Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

5 sites · Lodging, Tents93 acres · Olean, NY

Welcome to Firefly Aces where our land offers beautiful views of the valley and "Enchanted Mountains" by day and star filled skies at night. If you look long enough, you may even see some shooting stars. The property is 93 acres and offers well manicured hiking trails that can even be used for Mountain Biking enthusiasts. Wild animals such as deer, raccoons, fox, owls, hawks, humming birds, bald eagles and more have made the land their home. Fireflies tend to take over in the summer months, its a beautiful thing to see. It's the perfect place to get away and enjoy nature all while being close to restaurants and downtown Olean if needed. Enjoy cooking on our rustic fire pits or light a fire to just enjoy the crackling sounds and warmth at night. A safe place for kids to run around, enjoy family time and the simple pleasures Mother Nature has to offer. It's perfect for anyone who just wants to get away and immerse themselves in the country. We have 2 camp sites ready right now both come with a fire pit. One is more secluded which is campsite #2 and the one with the valley view is campsite #1. Showers are seasonal. The last day for shower use is Oct 15th. You’re more than welcome to bring your own portable shower hook up and use the shower house for privacy. We apologize for any inconvenience. Shower use ends Oct 15th. You’re more than welcome to bring your own portable shower hook up. You can use it inside our shower house for privacy. Apologies in advance for any inconvenience.

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Abandoned School

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Tidioute, PA

Located on the legendary Route 666, this campsite offers a one-of-a-kind experience to camp or park your RV beside an abandoned schoolhouse. Whether you're a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, this unique location blends thrills with tranquility. What’s Included: Easy-to-access Campsites: Whether you're arriving by car or any size RV, you'll find convenient parking and tent-pitching spots. Free Firewood: Available on-site, or to pick from forest. Firepits: Some spots have firepits. If unoccupied, feel free to use them; otherwise, you're welcome to create your own. Historic Backdrop: Capture the eerie ambiance of the abandoned schoolhouse in your photos. Nearby Attractions: Allegheny National Park & National Forest: Discover miles of trails and stunning natural beauty. Allegheny Outfitters (0.7 miles): Rent kayaks and canoes for a water adventure. George's Little Store (0.6 miles): Grab essentials or use the restroom. Minister Creek Trail: A scenic and challenging hike for nature enthusiasts. Pithole Ghost Town: Explore the remnants of this abandoned oil boomtown. Tionesta Dam: Enjoy breathtaking views and various recreational activities. Hearts Content Old Growth Forest: Walk among ancient trees and savor the tranquility of untouched nature. Washington Park: Perfect for picnicking, hiking, and outdoor relaxation. Minsi Bridge State Park: Discover the natural beauty and historic significance of this park. Tidioute Overlook: Take in panoramic views of the Allegheny River and surrounding landscapes. Important Information: Private Property Signs: Ignore these upon entry as they are meant to deter non-campers. Restrooms: Outhouses are not available; however, George’s Little Store nearby has facilities (24/7 Porta Potty). Hallers General Store has very nice bathrooms, but is a bit farther out (9 Minutes). If you prefer the simplicity of nature over the frills of a cabin or hotel, this place is for you. If you love exploring abandoned places, this campsite is for you. Whether you need a spot for your RV, a place to pitch a tent, or just somewhere to make unforgettable memories, the Abandoned Schoolhouse awaits. Gather your s'mores supplies, ghost stories, dog, friends, or family, and get ready for a unique adventure.

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Clarion Heights

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents53 acres · Johnsonburg, PA

The Property has been previously used for its Large stone, coal, and clay mine. The property has been virtually untouched for 60+ years. Beautiful views of the surrounding hills.Small private spot on the top of the hill.. Lots of wildlife and close to many area attractions like 4 wheeler trails fishing, hunting, boating and more...

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Neal Homestead Camp Sites

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Brookville, PA

Camp is on 50 acres with a pink marked trail to Red Bank Creek on the western border and back up through a hemlock forest along south border. A small stream runs through the property and forms a rocky delta in Red Bank Creek. All camp sites are on the eastern border and close to the main road to access property. Hike, enjoy the sound of the stream tickling through property, stargaze, or rest, watch nature's critters, read or just relax in a hammock. No hunting on property but fishing permitted along "river" aka Red Bank Creek. Please keep fires in firepit and noise levels low. Set up to be most natural, minimal mowing, and sites meant to be more private. We let you know if you have others on property. No running water or flush toilets on sites unless in your self-contained camper. A compost loo provided. Lots of kindling can be easily gathered for a fire. Consider ordering some ahead of time if it has been raining though. There is a tarp and a wheelbarrow to collect logs and kindling and move to your site.

Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Sigel, PA

This is your spot. Your own private campground on 5 acres of forest canopy that we unofficially call "Fern Gully", this site is literally adjacent to scenic Clear Creek State Park (1211 acres) and pristine "old-growth" Clear Creek State Forest (16229 acres). Accessible by RVs of any size. Tent campers welcome! Don't have an RV?? Check out RVshare.com to discover loads of options! A driveway leads to a large, flat landing where RVs can set up. Electric (50 and 20 amp) + pressurized water hook-up at sites. UPDATE: we recently added a second site for "friends/family"(full hook-ups) at the other end of the parking pad for those wishing to camp with guests. Fire pit on location. Firewood can be found on the property, but always smart to bring some. The road in can be rough, just go slow. We are working with the state to fix it. Do it your way! Come relax and unwind or get out and get active. Enjoy the serenity and solitude that nature provides at this quiet hideaway for peace and tranquility. POINTS of INTEREST: -Clear Creek State Park swimming area is minutes away, right down the road! -Only a few miles to Clarion River (2019 River of the Year) launch access! You can bring your boat and do some fishing, or rent canoes/kayaks/tubes and float away the day. -25+ miles of hiking trails within walking distance from camp. -Beartown Rocks is within hiking distance or a short drive. -The Seneca Point Overlook/Firetower is a must-see -For those looking for a leisure walk or cyclists, Rails-to-Trails paved trail is a unique experience, stop and see our friends at Lost In The Wilds brewery for a cold refreshment. -10 miles to North Country Trailhead. -10 miles to Cook Forest State Park (8500 acres), known as a National Natural Landmark for some of America's finest virgin white pine and hemlock timber stands. Cook Forest State Park was rated one of America's top 50 state parks by National Geographic Traveler magazine and was chosen by the Pennsylvania DCNR and its Bureau of Parks as one of "25 Must-See Pennsylvania State Parks". -10 miles to Allegheny National Forest. State Game Lands nearby. -Farmer's Inn restaurant has that rustic country flair, great food and a "zoo" that all ages can appreciate. -A local meat market, drive-in movie theatre and RV sales/service a short drive on Route 36 toward Brookville. *Check Out the following websites for some great, detailed information on the surrounding area: **AIRBNB - check out my "Guidebook" there and booking fees are LESS $$!!!** DCNR PAWILDS VISITPAGO

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The Highlander

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Pittsfield, PA

Rustic cabin with some creature comforts. Electric cooking range, microwave, coffee pot, small refrigerator TV and blu-ray player. Outdoor propane grill, charcoal grill and fire ring. There is no running water in the camp. There is an outhouse for toilet facilities. We provide filtered water for drinking and cooking. We also provide fire wood.

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Presidential Primitive Getaway

1 site · RV, Tent140 acres · Tionesta, PA

This property is 140 acres of private wooded land. Surrounded by approx 8000 acres of public hunting land. Endless hunting and fishing in native trout streams all within hiking distance. 3 miles from the Allegheny River. 5 miles from a public golf course. Short commute to local bike trails and grocery stores. Site could also accommodate horse back riding with miles of wilderness to explore. Some hiking trails on property for exploring. Wildlife galore. Deer, bear, turkeys, raccoons, and plenty of bird species to observe. Parking available for several vehicles. Site could accommodate for up to 2 RVS. Tent campers also welcome.

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Big Oak Hill

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · NY

This is a newly created campsite that has picturesque view of surrounding farmland and of Peek-n-Peak. Located conveniently off of Rt426 with a slight drive along a field to reach the destination. Private and out of the way. Plenty of wildlife (family of fox and usually mamma deer and her babies, can normally be seen doing what animals do. Close to Peek-n-Peak and Findley Lake and its many amenities. Has fantastic cell reception so remote working is an absolute possibility if longer stays are wanted. This is a little campsite on top of a hillside besides, you guessed it, a big oak. This is on a working hay farm, so depending on when you arrive you might be able to see hay being harvested. Again, this a new campsite so improvements will be made based on demand. To enter the property, you will use a field entrance right off Harrington Hill Road (coming from the west it will be on your left-hand side). We have the way marked for you with posts/markers so hopefully it will take you right there. Please be aware this is located on top of a hill (with a big oak, hence its name :)) and you will be going through an active hay field to reach it.

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The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Sheffield, PA

"The Nest" presents a secluded cabin nestled along Tionesta Creek, situated in the heart of Allegheny National Forest. Offering complete privacy and serenity, this retreat boasts no visible neighbors, allowing guests to unwind amidst the tranquil sounds of nature and the babbling creek. With breathtaking views from every angle, visitors can anticipate sightings of eagles, blue heron, black bear, and other wildlife while savoring morning coffee on the deck. Additionally, guests have access to two kayaks to enhance their stay. The cabin comfortably accommodates five guests and features a full bathroom equipped with an off-grid water system, ensuring continuous access to hot water.

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Ruby's Rocks

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Wilcox, PA

Learn more about this land: Our property is located near the tiny village of Glen Hazel, our unique area offers close proximity to many watersports and hiking opportunities. Visitors can watch bald eagles and osprey as you enjoy kayaking, fishing and nature at this primitive campsite. We have just one site. Our campsite is very private and includes a fire ring, a picnic table a trash can and a swing. Parking is available right at the site. It's just a 2 minute walk to the northernmost kayak launch on the East Branch of the Clarion River. Here you will find a public porta potty for use during the summer only. Several small jack dams will make your kayak experience a delight. We have a private 1 acre pond just a stones throw from the campsite that visitors can enjoy. Fishing is permitted in the pond, no license needed. Fly fishermen will enjoy the thrill of catching native and stocked trout in the most beautiful section on the East Branch of the Clarion River (PA fishing license and trout stamp required). Nearby is Bendigo State Park that offers free use of picnic areas and swimming in an immaculately kept pool. Just 1 1/2 miles away is the Dam Inn where you can stop for a beer or for a nice dinner on the deck. Adjacent to the campsite is State Gamelands #25. This enormous tract of public land is open to all for hiking, biking and fishing the pristine native trout streams, including Middle Fork, Crooked Creek and several others. Only a 3 mile drive will land you at the East Branch Lake, a seven mile long lake where you can put your boat in and fish, kayak or water ski to your hearts content.

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The Crosspatch

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Salamanca, NY

Family owned for 41 years! The Crosspatch got it's name because it is a triangular piece of land located between Route 242, Route 353 and Baker Road, the patch between the crossroads! The Crosspatch has been a working horse ranch in the beautiful Enchanted Mountains of New York for many yearsLearn more about this land:We have two camping areas, one with a pavilion and outhouses and a creek and one with only walk to (approx one third mile hike private access, in the woods.) Both beautiful and private.

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French Creek Flood Plain Overlook

1 site · Tent36 acres · Union City, PA

This tent site sits in the woods on a hill just above the corner of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) and a small tributary creek. It faces northwest over the valley providing amazing sunset views. This location is on the high-side of the Union City Dam which is a dry bed, flood control dam. Which means during snow melt, or rainy streaks, the dam will fill up and flood the entire valley. However during dry spells, French Creek will appear as any other creek. At peak flooding, it will make its way all the way up the tributary valley, making a beautiful lake front campsite. Unfortunately, this only occurs a few weeks out of the year (typically early spring and occasionally during wet falls) and is fairly unpredictable (you can compare the high-water vs low-water views from the photos). Most of the summer you can still enjoy the view over both the tributary valley and French Creek valley. (DISCLAIMER: Once or twice a year during the wettest streaks, the water rises high enough to flood the driveway, making it impossible to drive up directly to the campsite. If this happens, you will be notified before so you can choose either to be refunded and not stay or you can park 100 yards up the road and hike into the campsite to enjoy the unique and rare lakefront views. Again, these are natural events that are infrequent and unpredictable, but also provide a truly spectacular setting.) Located at the end of a dead end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagles nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, as well as frequently crossing both valleys. All types of waterfowl flock the lake when it's flooded. I've personally seen up to 1000 geese at one time. Beyond relaxing and wildlife watching, there are plenty of other activities to explore in the area. Access to many nature walking trails. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. Kayaks/canoes can be used to float the creek when dry or paddle up and down the reservoir lake when flooded. Centrally located between the 2 small towns of Union City and Waterford with gas stations, grocery stores, great local dinning options, and more. About a half an hour drive to Erie and Presque Isle State Park. Come enjoy this extremely unique stretch of French Creek and Pennsylvania woods! DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit.

The best camping near Allegheny National Forest guide

Overview

About

Rest and relax in an old-growth forest. This national treasure has lakes, streams, scenic byways, hiking trails, and lots of camping. Begin your getaway at Allegheny Reservoir, a 27-mile-long lake.

Fish along 91 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline thick with trees. The reservoir is very popular, but there is plenty of space for you to find a cozy inlet. Launch your own boat or rent one from a guide in a nearby town.

Paddle along two wild and scenic rivers, the Allegheny and Clarion. Both rivers combine for 130 miles of heavy vegetation on their banks and gently rolling waters. Camp on some of the islands in either river for a rustic experience.

Hike to Farnsworth Cabin, a historic structure built in the 1930s. Use the cabin as your base for hiking through the Hickory Creek Wilderness. Watch for bears, deer, turkeys, barred owls, and pileated woodpeckers. Fish for brook trout in secluded Farnsworth Stream.

Several campgrounds and cabins allow for all types of camping.

Notable campgrounds

Best for hikers: Morrison Campground has 38 rustic campsites at the trailhead of the 10.5-mile Morrison Trail.
Best for getting on the water: Pine Grove Campground has 13 boat-in tent sites on the east shore of the Allegheny Reservoir.
Best for family campers: Red Bridge Recreation Area has popular tent-only and RV sites, some with electric or full hookups.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve campsites and cabins at 11 of the Allegheny National Forest campgrounds via the Recreation.gov website. Other sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Campsite reservations open six months in advance and should be made a minimum of seven days before arrival.
Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of three months in advance to avoid disappointment.

When to go

Peak season at Allegheny National Forest is April through October, but outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round. Come in spring to admire wildflowers, in fall to hike among fall foliage, or in winter to enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Campgrounds have varying opening seasons, with many open from May through October only.

Know before you go

Allegheny National Forest is 90 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, or about a 1-hour and 45-minute drive away.
There is no admission fee to visit the park, but camping reservation fees apply, and ATV/OHV permits are required.
Facilities include restrooms, picnic and day-use areas, and boat launches. Cell phone service is patchy throughout the forest.
There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Allegheny National Forest.