Camping near Cook Forest State Park

96% (19 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cook Forest State Park adventure.

Discover the natural splendor of Cook Forest State Park.

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Stay at a public campground in Cook Forest State Park

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(19)

Cook Forest Park Campground

234 sites · RVs, Tents In Cook Forest State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Cook Forest State Park

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River Hills Above the Allegheny

7 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Parker, PA

Located just outside of Parker, PA and 25 minutes from I-80, our campsite is very accessible, yet still very remote. With 4 campsites on 75 acres, guests have ample privacy and space, with the freedom to roam this posted property that has no homes on it. Perched high above the Allegheny there are several spots to take in the wonderful views. There is also a waterfall with a 3’ deep pool below it. Great for splashing with kids or dogs, guests love exploring the creek bottom and making new discoveries. The more curious guests sometimes find the ruins of the original homestead, chimney and spring house that sit upstream. The property is teeming with wildlife. Birds and tree frogs will be the soundtrack of your visit, and often deer will be seen nosing along the outskirts of your site in the mornings and evenings. Turkey, bald eagles and even bear are occasionally spotted, so be prepared to secure your food and trash at night. For those coming to disconnect, you have found the right place. But if cell service is needed, you will have enough to get texts out and depending what site you booked, calls and internet as well. For those who seek an electrical outlet AND and EV charger, we have a site for you! We also have a site with a large canvas tent already set up for your convenience. Within a 15 minute drive of your campsite you can find The North Country Trail, Rails to Trails Trailheads and Boat Launches on the Allegheny River, Groceries, dining and beer.

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Muddy Myst

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Kittanning, PA

Eco-Campsites and Recreation Area located in the heart of Western Pennsylvania! The site is in a great location, only a 12 minute drive from Buttermilk Falls and the Rails to Trails Bike Path that runs along the Allegheny River. For those interested in fishing we are only a short drive from Pine Creek, Cowanshannock Creek, Keystone Lake, Mahoning Dam, and Crooked Creek Lake. For those interested in off-roading, the Scrubgrass OHV park is only 20 minutes away.

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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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The Tiny Home

4 sites · Lodging7 acres · Barkeyville, PA

Learn more about this land: The TINY HOME features: • 240 square feet plus sleeping lofts • Sleeping space for 5 consisting of one double bed and two single beds in the lofts and one pullout on the main floor • Electric fireplace, stove, and oven • Refrigerator • Central HVAC • Large wooden deck. The SITE also features: • Wooded trails • Three fire pits with plentiful free firewood • 250 square foot pavilion with picnic table. • Trails thru woods plus large lawn area OTHER: • Pets generally permitted but not inside house. • Recommend good tires, or 4 wheel drive to get up driveway, deflating tires may be necessary in bad weather. • No Smoking Inside

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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 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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Neal Homestead Camp

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

There are 5 sites to stop with an RV or tent plus a stone cabin with loft. The soil is very rocky not easy to farm so Grandpa said they " lived on elderberries and groundhog". 17 miles away is Punxsytawney home of the famous groundhog. There is 50 acres with a pink marked trail to Red Bank Creek and back up through a hemlock forest. A small stream runs through the property and forms a rocky delta in Red Bank Creek. I love the rocks on the property huge and small. Hike, enjoy the sound of the stream tickling through property, stargaze, or rest and relax in a hammock. There is one along the little stream and one at Outdoor Adventure Camp Site. No hunting on property but fishing allowed. Please keep fires in firepit and noise levels low.

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(25)

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.

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 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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Ridge Top Retreat

5 sites · Lodging, Tents150 acres · Westover, PA

We are located in beautiful Clearfield county Pennysalvina. Our farm is on over 150 acres. It’s has been in the family for generations. It has beautiful farm views with wooded areas. There is lots of wildlife to see. Including bear, bobcat, deer, eagles, fishers, and many other species. We have lots of hiking trails and our property also boarders state game lands. It’s a short drive to the Susquehanna River and other parks. You can also enjoy the cows, goats, peacocks, chickens, ducks, and turkeys at the farm. Contact the host and set up a time to visit and feed the animals. Learn more about our family farm and the animals. We also have a sawmill and wood shop. Nearby is Bilgers Rocks, Rock Run Atv Park, Prince Gallitzin State Park, the Susquehanna River, and many other fantastic outdoor activities. It’s a place to unwind and relax. And connect with nature.

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Rock Falls Adventures

4 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Slippery Rock, PA

Located on Slippery Rock Creek, a quiet and serene environment with kayaks available to use from our dock and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Half wooded and half open with abundant shade to enjoy. Nearby and local adventures include HIKING and BACKPACKING the North Country Trail, BIKING paved and mountain trails, KAYAKING lakes, creeks and rivers, WINERIES and unique FOODIE establishments, and even local SCUBA diving.

The best camping near Cook Forest State Park guide

Overview

About

Don’t delay that much-needed soul-reviving camping trip you’ve been longing for for one more day! Head to Cook Forest State Park where the park’s miles and miles (and miles) of biking and hiking trails under gorgeous “cathedral forest” canopies of skyscraping white pines and hemlocks will have your fast feet on repeat and the flow of the Clarion River will roll your blues to the banks. Don’t worry about arranging a canoe pick-up with your co-worker’s brother’s best friend’s across-the-street-neighbor. Spare yourself a potential mad-face and the unneeded stress, and let your travel-load be light! You can rent a canoe, kayak, or even tube on-site at Cook Forest State Park. You just follow that river to your heart’s content and mozy back to your campsite under the starshine. Sit back, relax and enjoy the campfire crackle. Less than 2 hours from Pittsburgh, but worlds away. This is everything.

When to go

The prime time to visit Cook Forest State Park is during the spring and fall, when the foliage is a spectacle of vibrant colors and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Summer brings a buzz of energy and full bloom, but also larger crowds. Winters can be harsh, with some facilities closed, so it's best for those seeking a tranquil, snowy retreat.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit for your adventures.
Stay informed about any trail closures or special advisories by visiting the park's official website.
Accessibility varies across different areas of the park, so inquire ahead if you require special accommodations.