Handsome Lake Boat Access Campground

In
Allegheny National Forest
·
100%
·
1 review
20 sites · Tent

Grab yourself a site at the Handsome Lake Campground and you’ll immediately understand why they called it “handsome.

” Located on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir, just north of Sugar Bay, this is the kind of place you’d bring someone to show them how beautiful of a state Pennsylvania really is. When you camp here, you’ll be moving in with over 300 species of mammals that call the Allegheny National Forest home, including beavers, wild turkeys and the allusive gray fox. You could keep yourself, and if you have them, your kids will be entertained here day in and day out. But you might end up just wanting to kick back and soak in the scenery. That’s okay too.
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
Pets allowed
No showers
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
No sewage hookups
No electric hookups
20 sites
Tent
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Pets
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from 
$50
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  • Entrance to Welcome Center/Gift Shop/Pavilion at the Austin Dam Ruins Meadow (no camping allowed in this area and no climbing on the dam ruins)
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Austin Dam Memorial Park

135 sites · RVs, Tents76 acres · PA
Just outside the quaint town of Austin sits a vivid reminder of one of Pennsylvania's worst disasters – the Austin Flood. In 1909, the dam was constructed on Freeman Run to power the Bayless Papermill downstream. Many wondered if the dam was safe. On September 30, 1911, Austin found out. Poor construction, coupled with torrential rain, resulted in the dam's collapse. Nearly 400 million gallons of water were released, destroying everything for 8 miles. At least 78 people perished in the tragedy. It was the second worst flood disaster in Pennsylvania's history and sixth worst dam failure in U.S. history. The tragedy sparked new legislation to improve dam safety, and the Austin Dam was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. The ruins of the dam still stand, surrounded by a 76-acre park, as a tribute to the lives lost in the Austin Flood. Don't miss one of Potter County's best kept secrets!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
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Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

5 sites · Tents133 acres · Coudersport, PA
Olga Farm is a working organic vegetable farm with a Stargazing Field for primitive camping & it also offers a number of glamping options. Please contact us if you're interested in glamping at Olga Farm. The Stargazing Field at Olga Farm is perfect for camping, breathtaking sunrises, peaceful meditation, & you guessed it...stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the northeastern United States. It's adjacent to a working organic vegetable farm. Olga Farm is 4.4 miles from the charming town of Coudersport & its shops & eateries, including Olga Gallery, Cafe, & Bistro which is only 5.9 miles away. There's a great swimming hole less than 5.5 miles away. Cherry Springs State Park, a stargazing Mecca is 21 miles away. Olga Farm is a great base to explore the Pennsylvania Wilds. We are 36 miles from the Kinzua Skywalk & 46 miles from Leonard Harrison State Park, one of our favorite places to view the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. We're only 14 miles from the Austin Dam Ruins & 37 miles from Rock City Park just over the border in New York State.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$63
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High Pines RV Park

72 sites · RVs54 acres · Kane, PA
Big Rig Friendly! Many level, full hook-up, pull-through sites! A relaxing place to stay with bath house, laundry, clubhouse, full hook ups, dump station, pull-thru sites, up to 100 foot sites, and so much more. Wi-Fi throughout the Park!! AND excellent cell service for Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. We also have a Laundry facility on property. Minutes from several E-Bike trails and walking trails in the Alleghany National Forrest. Just across the street you can catch the Knox and Kane Rail trail for an 8 mile bike ride to the Kinzua Bridge State Park. We're located on Rt. 219, on the way to Niagara Falls in Pennsylvania. Clean, relaxing, peacful and quiet are some of the words our guests use to describe us. Enjoy exploring all that the Allegheny National Forest and nearby area has to offer, and then come back here to relax.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$55
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42 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · NY
Pitch your tent, bring your RV camper or stay at one of our glamping sites at Campground Adventures and stay next to the Ischua Creek. Bring your kayak/canoe and fishing pole and enjoy the adventure. At your site you will have access to water connection and 20/30 Amps service. Each site will have a picnic table and a fire ring. Outdoor communal kitchen, just steps away from your accommodation. Equipped with a Weber propane grill, Blackstone griddle, fridge/freezer, hotplate, drip coffee maker, microwave, toaster, waffle maker, and a range of dishes, pots, pans, and utensils, it's the perfect space for preparing meals. Our bathhouse is located within a short walking distance of your site. There are hot showers, a changing area, and flush toilets.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
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  • Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views
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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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$31.50
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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: DCNR PAWILDS VISITPAGO
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$42.75
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Angie's Country Cabins B&B

11 sites · Lodging10 acres · Cassadaga, NY
Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site nestled in the woods as well as a guest room we rent.**** As a courtesy to Mother Earth and our time, new for 2025 we assume you will provide the linens unless u book the linen add on package for $30. We no longer provide linens for cabins unless its a 3 night stay or longer Nice back porch with hot tub- bar- table- grill. Pavilion with picnic table at the main house. Plenty of Parking. Only the country cabin you can drive right up to the cabin or our lodge cabin. The rest of the rentals you MUST WALK to. No big hills. Super quiet spot in nature. Unplug and reconnect with nature and each other. Leashed dogs are welcome. No cats allowed inside any rentals. Please do not bring animals who are known to be unfriendly towards humans and; other animals.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40.50
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  • Steelhead Run Recreation Area
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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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night
  • Abandoned School
  • Abandoned School
  • Abandoned School
97%
(47)

Abandoned School

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Tidioute, PA
Camp Beside History on the Legendary Route 666 Welcome to a one-of-a-kind camping experience—where you can pitch a tent or park your RV beside a hauntingly beautiful, abandoned schoolhouse deep in the PA woods. Located on the legendary Route 666, this private campsite offers an unforgettable blend of eerie history and peaceful seclusion. There is only one site—and it’s all yours. No other campers. No shared space. Just you, your group, and the freedom to explore. What’s Included: Exclusive Access: When you book, the entire property is yours. Roam, relax, and make it your own. Tent & RV Friendly: Separate areas for tents and RVs of any size. Water Available: On-site spigot Firewood: Purchase bundles on-site or collect fallen wood from the forest behind the schoolhouse. Firepits: Use an existing ring or safely build your own. On-Site Porta Potty: Clean and private, located discreetly on the grounds. Make Yourself at Home: Explore, take photos, and unwind in total privacy. Nearby Attractions: Allegheny National Forest Minister Creek Trail Pithole Ghost Town Tionesta Dam Hearts Content Old Growth Forest Allegheny Outfitters (0.7 mi) George’s Little Store (0.6 mi) – essentials + 24/7 Porta Potty Haller’s General Store (9 min) – clean indoor restrooms Important Notes: Private Property Signs: Ignore them—you’re welcome here. Restrooms: A porta potty is on-site. Additional restroom options nearby if needed. If you love peaceful nature, off-grid exploring, and a spooky twist, this hidden gem is for you. Whether it’s ghost stories by the fire or hiking nearby trails, this place was made for memory-making. One site. One schoolhouse. All yours.
Pets
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from 
$47.50
 / night
  • The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF
  • The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF
  • The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF
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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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$125
 / night
  • Deer on the property are often spotted on the hiking trails
  • Site 2 fire pit
  • Deer on the property are often spotted on the hiking trails
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(125)

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...
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$29.75
 / night

More to explore nearby

100%
1 ratings · 1 review
Recommends
· July 2018
Spent a long weekend at this campground with my wife and Boxer Izzy. It was amazing! The only way to get to this campground is by boat or hike. My wife and I hiked in and set up camp right in the water. There was clean drinking water and a vault toilet. 5 stars!
W
William N.
6 years on Hipcamp
LocationHandsome Lake Boat Access Campground, Allegheny National Forest, Pennsylvania, United States
Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.
What this place offers
Campfire allowed
Pets allowed
No showers
Toilets
Potable water
Picnic tables
No sewage hookups
No electric hookups

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Top parks near Handsome Lake Boat Access Campground

Tionesta Lake
Harriett Tubman National Historical Park
Cayuga Lake State Park
Fillmore Glen State Park
Manassas National Battlefield Park
Gettysburg National Military Park
James River State Park
Douthat State Park

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