Best Campgrounds in Pennsylvania: 2026 Guide

Pennsylvania's camping reputation rests on the Allegheny National Forest — half a million acres of northern hardwoods, hemlock ravines, and the sprawling Allegheny Reservoir stretching into New York. But the state's campground network extends well beyond the ANF: the Pocono region, the Laurel Highlands, and a string of Army Corps lakes in the western hills all offer distinct camping experiences. What ties them together is dense eastern forest, clear streams, and a sense of seclusion that surprises visitors expecting nothing but cities between New York and the Midwest.

Why Pennsylvania Stands Out

The Allegheny Reservoir (Kinzua Dam) created a dramatic inland fjord-like waterway winding through forested hills, with campgrounds perched on its arms offering boat-in and drive-in access. The Hickory Creek Wilderness preserves old-growth white pine and hemlock that escaped the logging era. Western Pennsylvania's Corps of Engineers lakes — Loyalhanna, Crooked Creek, Conemaugh — sit in rolling farmland with excellent fishing. The state's trail systems, including sections of the North Country Trail, link many campgrounds together for multiday hiking-camping trips.

Top Campgrounds to Explore

Kiasutha

On the Kinzua Arm of the Allegheny Reservoir in northwest Pennsylvania, Kiasutha offers countless water activities with a large swimming beach and forested sites along the reservoir.

Dewdrop

Another Kinzua Arm gem near Bradford, Dewdrop is a popular getaway for boaters and families who love the dramatic reservoir scenery and excellent fishing.

Hearts Content Recreation Area

A semi-primitive campground near Bradford bordering the Hickory Creek Wilderness, surrounded by native hardwoods and old-growth forest — one of the last virgin stands in the eastern U.S.

Buckaloons

At the confluence of the Allegheny River, Brokenstraw Creek, and Irvine Run near Bradford. This 61-site campground offers access to the Allegheny River and is a paddler's favorite.

Ives Run

On the eastern shore of Hammond Lake in north-central Pennsylvania near Tioga, surrounded by lush forested ridges with excellent recreation for families and anglers.

Kellettville Recreation Area

In Forest County near Tionesta — half the county is preserved public land. Known as one of Pennsylvania's best big game regions with remarkable ecological diversity.

East Branch Campground

At East Branch Lake in northeastern Elk County near Wilcox, offering an excellent freshwater fishery alongside other recreational opportunities in the Pennsylvania Wilds.

Bush Recreation Area

Next to scenic Loyalhanna Lake near Saltsburg in western Pennsylvania. Picturesque lake views, bird watching, and boating — all a short drive from Pittsburgh.

Planning Tips

Peak season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day, but fall foliage camping in October is spectacular — the Allegheny Forest erupts in color. Spring can be muddy; trails and campgrounds are best from mid-May onward. The Allegheny Reservoir sites are most scenic from June through September when water levels are high. Western Pennsylvania's Corps lakes offer good shoulder-season camping into October. Black bears are present throughout the northern forests — use proper food storage.

Find More

Browse all Pennsylvania campgrounds on our Pennsylvania camping page, or explore the full campground directory to plan your next trip.