Camping in Erie, PA, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

95% (1405 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Erie

Star Hosts in Erie

Top camping destinations

Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

629 campgrounds

Allegheny National Forest

841 campgrounds

Allegany State Park

868 campgrounds

Sunrise over the Grand Canyon of the East

Letchworth State Park

Cook Forest State Park

828 campgrounds

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(114)

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY

When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.

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.

98%

(22)

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.

100%

(6)

Patchwork Place

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Jefferson, OH

We have just under 20 acres. You can drive right to the camp sites located about 700 foot behind the house. It is a peaceful setting over looking a pond, fishing is welcome. There is a pavilion and a playground. Kids and dogs are welcome. We are close to several local wineries and about 20 minutes from Lake Erie. Pymatuning Lake is 30 minutes away. Geneva on the Lake is about 30 minutes from us.

Fish Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Mc Kean, PA

32 acres located 8 miles from Walnut Creek Access and Lake Erie . 2 miles from world famous Elk Creek and steelhead trout fishing . 10 miles from beaches . 3 acres mowed . Excellent Steelhead fishing from the creek! Has electric only . No other utilities . Must have own water and septic holding tanks . Dump station is nearby off of property . Appx 10 miles from Presque Isle Beaches . 15 miles from downtown Erie Pa. Very quiet . Paved road . Lots of deer and wildlife .

12 top campgrounds near Erie

99%

(114)

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY

When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.

98%

(22)

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.

93%

(23)

Steadfast Roots Homestead

7 sites · Tents20 acres · Ashtabula, OH

We are a working homestead trying our best to do right by mother earth. We have 20 acres that offer nice trails to enjoy the peace of nature, duck/goose pond, kayaks, paddleboat, big pond with islands, moss beach, fire pits, picnic tables, meeting room/A frame available if needed. Camping in the forest surrounded by ancient woodlands. So close to I90 our property touches it, don't worry there is a fence at that outer tree line you can see the highway in some areas or edges and car show days are great times to look. You will hear all the noises Ashtabula county has to offer. Including but not limited to the highway, Benetka Rd Covered Bridge is part of the driving trail, there is a cool off road park down that way has events as well vroomvroom, AND we have roosters, chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, rabbits, who knows what that noise was? If you are looking to only hear nature this is not the homestead to choose. Not far from all of the amazing Ashtabula attractions. Super close to harbor and cute small towns, wineries, fun local shops, and Lake Erie beaches. Short drive to Erie PA not far from NY boarder. Lots of online delivery to us options. Outhouse available but no electricity and no bath house yet. Ask about sapling adoption!!! Please ask us anything and everything tell us if you know something we love to learn and we are still learning about this wonderful piece of earth we are trying to survive on.

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.

Fish Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Mc Kean, PA

32 acres located 8 miles from Walnut Creek Access and Lake Erie . 2 miles from world famous Elk Creek and steelhead trout fishing . 10 miles from beaches . 3 acres mowed . Excellent Steelhead fishing from the creek! Has electric only . No other utilities . Must have own water and septic holding tanks . Dump station is nearby off of property . Appx 10 miles from Presque Isle Beaches . 15 miles from downtown Erie Pa. Very quiet . Paved road . Lots of deer and wildlife .

Camp Bandur

26 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Erie, PA

We enjoy camping and like to share our passion with others.Learn more about this land:This property is a new, up and coming camping oasis. The camping area offers field camping, camping near a quiet stream or in the secluded woods. Any suggestions for improvement are welcome and big plans for attractions are in the not too distant future! All sites are accessible by vehicle.

Patchwork Place

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Jefferson, OH

We have just under 20 acres. You can drive right to the camp sites located about 700 foot behind the house. It is a peaceful setting over looking a pond, fishing is welcome. There is a pavilion and a playground. Kids and dogs are welcome. We are close to several local wineries and about 20 minutes from Lake Erie. Pymatuning Lake is 30 minutes away. Geneva on the Lake is about 30 minutes from us.

96%

(13)

Conneauttee Valley Getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Edinboro, PA

Enjoy a private country setting near Edinboro and Cambridge Springs. Just down the road from Mount Pleasant of Edinboro. Situated on approximately 3 acres with a pond for relaxing or fishing. Plenty of hiking available nearby. Plenty of food options nearby with Riverside Brewing within a few miles.

100%

(2)

The Stable at Windmill Ridge Farm

1 site · Lodging47 acres · Forestville, NY

You won’t forget the peaceful surroundings of this unique destination. Come visit our local wineries in a private non-shared stay. We have taken several years to create a rustic barn stay. We converted horse stalls into living space with 100 year old restored fixtures, modern heating, lighting, and insulation. We have kept much of the old wood stalls, and added reclaimed barn wood and roofing to create a vintage experience. We have a full kitchen. The milk house entry has a modern washer/dryer.

100%

(13)

Elk Valley Creekside

1 site · Lodging70 acres · Girard, PA

This campsite is a wildlife paradise and a fisherman's dream come true on the banks of Elk Creek. We open April 1 each season so campers can take advantage of three months of incredible steelhead, smallmouth bass, lake suckers and stocked browns. There are seasonal fishing ponds on the property as well. Campers will marvel at the incredible nature surrounding this secluded campsite. Watch bald eagles from your tent deck, and keep your eyes open for deer, turkey, seasonal steelhead and beautiful monarch butterflies. Elk Valley Creekside is a perfect getaway for campers interested in wildlife photography - the photo opportunities are endless. This campsite is only 20 minutes from Presque Isle State Park, and 30 minutes from Erie, PA. There are solar lights around the campsite to help you see at night, and plenty of firewood is provided. The Space: Creekside Campsite with Incredible Fishing and Wildlife Guest Access: This was a former Tentrr Signature 5 star campsite. An outdoor toilet (job johnny) and fire wood are provided

100%

(1)

Crestview Community Camp

1 site · RV24 acres · Springboro, PA

We are a community in Northwestern Pennsylvania located outside the town of Springboro. Many people come through the area to visit Lake Erie. Fishermen especially seek places to stay, but they can be hard to find. We look forward to welcoming them to our community. One of our residents has a greenhouse with beautiful plants and another sells honey. In town, our neighbor has a hunting store that includes an indoor simulated archery experience. Up the road is Chupp's Country Cupboard, an Amish store that offers fresh and unique items.

100%

(10)

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.

Under $50

93%

(23)

Steadfast Roots Homestead

7 sites · Tents20 acres · Ashtabula, OH

We are a working homestead trying our best to do right by mother earth. We have 20 acres that offer nice trails to enjoy the peace of nature, duck/goose pond, kayaks, paddleboat, big pond with islands, moss beach, fire pits, picnic tables, meeting room/A frame available if needed. Camping in the forest surrounded by ancient woodlands. So close to I90 our property touches it, don't worry there is a fence at that outer tree line you can see the highway in some areas or edges and car show days are great times to look. You will hear all the noises Ashtabula county has to offer. Including but not limited to the highway, Benetka Rd Covered Bridge is part of the driving trail, there is a cool off road park down that way has events as well vroomvroom, AND we have roosters, chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, rabbits, who knows what that noise was? If you are looking to only hear nature this is not the homestead to choose. Not far from all of the amazing Ashtabula attractions. Super close to harbor and cute small towns, wineries, fun local shops, and Lake Erie beaches. Short drive to Erie PA not far from NY boarder. Lots of online delivery to us options. Outhouse available but no electricity and no bath house yet. Ask about sapling adoption!!! Please ask us anything and everything tell us if you know something we love to learn and we are still learning about this wonderful piece of earth we are trying to survive on.

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 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.

Patchwork Place

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Jefferson, OH

We have just under 20 acres. You can drive right to the camp sites located about 700 foot behind the house. It is a peaceful setting over looking a pond, fishing is welcome. There is a pavilion and a playground. Kids and dogs are welcome. We are close to several local wineries and about 20 minutes from Lake Erie. Pymatuning Lake is 30 minutes away. Geneva on the Lake is about 30 minutes from us.

Fish Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Mc Kean, PA

32 acres located 8 miles from Walnut Creek Access and Lake Erie . 2 miles from world famous Elk Creek and steelhead trout fishing . 10 miles from beaches . 3 acres mowed . Excellent Steelhead fishing from the creek! Has electric only . No other utilities . Must have own water and septic holding tanks . Dump station is nearby off of property . Appx 10 miles from Presque Isle Beaches . 15 miles from downtown Erie Pa. Very quiet . Paved road . Lots of deer and wildlife .

Available this weekend

93%

(23)

Steadfast Roots Homestead

7 sites · Tents20 acres · Ashtabula, OH

We are a working homestead trying our best to do right by mother earth. We have 20 acres that offer nice trails to enjoy the peace of nature, duck/goose pond, kayaks, paddleboat, big pond with islands, moss beach, fire pits, picnic tables, meeting room/A frame available if needed. Camping in the forest surrounded by ancient woodlands. So close to I90 our property touches it, don't worry there is a fence at that outer tree line you can see the highway in some areas or edges and car show days are great times to look. You will hear all the noises Ashtabula county has to offer. Including but not limited to the highway, Benetka Rd Covered Bridge is part of the driving trail, there is a cool off road park down that way has events as well vroomvroom, AND we have roosters, chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, rabbits, who knows what that noise was? If you are looking to only hear nature this is not the homestead to choose. Not far from all of the amazing Ashtabula attractions. Super close to harbor and cute small towns, wineries, fun local shops, and Lake Erie beaches. Short drive to Erie PA not far from NY boarder. Lots of online delivery to us options. Outhouse available but no electricity and no bath house yet. Ask about sapling adoption!!! Please ask us anything and everything tell us if you know something we love to learn and we are still learning about this wonderful piece of earth we are trying to survive on.

Fish Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Mc Kean, PA

32 acres located 8 miles from Walnut Creek Access and Lake Erie . 2 miles from world famous Elk Creek and steelhead trout fishing . 10 miles from beaches . 3 acres mowed . Excellent Steelhead fishing from the creek! Has electric only . No other utilities . Must have own water and septic holding tanks . Dump station is nearby off of property . Appx 10 miles from Presque Isle Beaches . 15 miles from downtown Erie Pa. Very quiet . Paved road . Lots of deer and wildlife .

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.

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY

When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

99%

(36)

Allegheny National Forest

Sheffield, Pennsylvania

67%

(3)

Pymatuning State Park

Pymatuning South, Pennsylvania

100%

(1)

Pymatuning State Park OH

Saegertown, Pennsylvania

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Erie guide

Overview

Walk along the Lake Erie shoreline in Erie, Pennsylvania, and you may be able to spot Canada off in the distance. Erie, PA sits right on the edge of the country, but there’s no need to leave the city anytime soon. With a lighthouse, zoo, and plenty of museums, Erie has more than enough to keep campers busy. Camp for a few days, and you’ll quickly get the lay of the land and the lake. Campsites—from family-friendly resorts to romantic cabin campgrounds—surround the city, so you can wander Erie’s parks and beaches to your heart’s content.

Where to go

Presque Isle State Park

If there’s one must-see in Erie, PA, it’s Presque Isle State Park. Campsites around the park run the gamut, so you can park your RV at a site with full hookups or simply park yourself at a cabin of your choosing. From your tent with a lakefront view, it’s easy to forget that Lake Erie is a lake—and not its own, vast ocean.

Erie Bluffs State Park

Head west of Erie, and you’ll stumble into Erie Bluffs State Park just miles before the Pennsylvania-Ohio border. After you check into your cabin with a picnic table, enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst the park’s bluffs. You didn’t think it’s called Erie Bluffs State Park for no reason, did you? If you’d rather an action-packed getaway, the park offers hiking, fishing, and, in the colder months, cross-country skiing.

East of Erie

If you’d rather venture toward New York, follow the shoreline east of Erie. Along the water, you’ll find Shades Beach Park, where playgrounds, beaches, and trailheads all come together. Further inland, family-friendly campsites near Six Mile Creek Park offer even more hiking trails, each with unique scenery. Rent a campsite with running water, wifi, and onsite bathrooms, and you’ll embrace all things nature with all things convenient.

When to go

Erie, PA camping was made for warm weather, when beach camping is at its best. If you enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, or just generally exploring the great outdoors, come to Erie in the summer, when you can make the most of the area’s nature. Many campsites, however, remain open year-round. Book a yurt with bunk beds or a cabin with electricity, and we promise: beach weather will be nothing more than an afterthought.