The best camping in Allegheny Reservoir

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Spanning more than 12,000 acres across New York and Pennsylvania, the reservoir, along with the surrounding Allegany State Park, Allegany Reservation, and the Allegheny National Forest, form one of the largest outdoor recreation complexes in the northeast. It’s a prime destination for water recreation, including swimming, paddling, boating, fishing, and flat water windsurfing, while hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails surround the area. Numerous camping options let you camp waterside, in the backcountry, or in the woods, and span primitive tent-only sites, RV sites with hookup, rustic cabins, and cozy cottages.

98% (2.6K) 3,088 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Allegheny Reservoir

Austin Dam Memorial Park

1. Austin Dam Memorial Park

98%
(810)
PA · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
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!
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Campground Adventures

2. Campground Adventures

99%
(83)
NY · 36 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Full hookups
The Heron Farm & Event Center

3. The Heron Farm & Event Center

97%
(657)
Panama, NY · 45 sites · Tents, RVs
The Heron is an Organic Farm, Event & Wedding Venue, and Campground. A place to connect deeply with nature & art, eat real food and create lasting memories! We are the home of the Great Blue Heron Music Festival and the Green Heron Growers. For more information on our farm, our Farm Store and our Events, visit our website, theheron.org You'll notice a handful of weekends that the campground is closed or would appear fully booked; those may be times that we have ticketed music festivals happening, in which case you can find that information on our main website. Our many camping and lodging options allow families to relax, enjoy nature, and create memories. We have around 100 sites throughout our 300 acres, some woodsy, some with views of the rolling hills and some with electric service. The Heron grounds boast a swimming and fishing pond, and over 4 miles of on-site hiking trails. Located on over 400 acres in beautiful Chautauqua County, NY, we are a working organic farm with a shiitake mushroom yard and on-site farm store. We host weddings, educational workshops, retreats, private events, captivating music festivals, and much more! We offer many different options for camping, from tent sites nestled in the woods to RV sites with electric hook-ups (electric site reservations are to be made on that specific listing and are limited). We allow pets, all dogs must on a leash 6ft or shorter in length and held by an adult, there is a $20/stay pet fee for pets that can be paid prior to arrival. Beach/Swimming Rules: Two adults 18 or over are required to supervise when there are children swimming. (Even if only one child is present.) No swimming outside of the designated/roped swim area. No watercraft allowed anywhere in the pond. Do not use soap in the water, we have showers! No alcohol, no glass or open containers. On-site Phone is for Emergencies only (located in the beach hut to the left of the beach area). Creating a reservation is your agreement with this rule. Local Attractions: Panama Rocks, Chautauqua Institute, Chautauqua Lake Overland Trail (The Westside of Trail) over 35 miles of hiking, Chautauqua Gorge, Audubon Nature Center, Rails to Trails, Ellicottville Brewery, Southern Tier Brewery & Distillery, Lake Erie Wine Trail, and much more! Please contact us with questions and inquiries. Come and share the Magic of The Heron! Welcome Home!
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Electrical hookup
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Allegheny National Forest

4. Allegheny National Forest

97%
(39)
National forest in Pennsylvania · 742 sites
Find plenty to do in this half-million-acre national forest in northwestern Pennsylvania.
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Electrical hookup
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Allegany State Park

5. Allegany State Park

95%
(22)
State park in New York · 625 sites
Natural history meets lakefront fun at this Western New York state park.
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Pope Haven Campground

6. Pope Haven Campground

Randolph, NY · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Nestled along the scenic Amish Trail, Pope Haven Campground stands out as a serene retreat that caters to families and pet lovers alike. This unique destination offers a tranquil countryside atmosphere, making it an ideal escape for visitors of all ages. At Pope Haven, you can choose from a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Opt for our cozy cabin rentals for a homey feel, or enjoy the freedom of camping with our full hook-up sites and rustic tent camping options. For those looking to explore the area, we also provide golf cart rentals to enhance your experience. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Pope Haven Campground is the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. With nearby attractions such as beautiful natural features, inviting swimming holes, and a range of outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty to do. Plus, local restaurants and shops are just a short drive away, ensuring you have everything you need for a delightful getaway.
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Full hookups
Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

7. Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

98%
(89)
Sigel, PA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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). A few short 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. Less than 10 miles to Cook Forest State Park (8500 acres), Allegheny National Forest, and North Country Trailhead! 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. Fire pits on location. Split firewood can be purchased as an "extra". The road in can be rough, just go slow, it's not ours, 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. Want to bring a SECOND RV along? Just ask, we can add them to your booking, our power station can accommodate more than one. UPDATE: We recently purchased a park model camp for our own personal family use. That was always our dream goal, a home away from home. It will be parked on the far end of the lot. it will not affect your campsite or privacy, but we want to mention it in the listing for transparency. Your experience, privacy and enjoyment are important to us. If you have any questions, feel free to ask prior to booking. Thank you. POINTS of INTEREST: -Clear Creek State Park swimming area is minutes away, right down the road! -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. *Check Out the following websites for some great, detailed information on the surrounding area: DCNR PAWILDS VISITPAGO
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Electrical hookup
Campfires
The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

8. The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

99%
(71)
Sheffield, PA · 1 site
"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. Parking for The Nest is along the widened shoulder of Route 666. From the parking spot, an approximately 100 ft lightly sloped dirt foot path with stairs leads to the cabin. Nominal amount of firewood is provided for every guest.
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Showers
Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

9. Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

99%
(362)
Coudersport, PA · 5 sites
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.
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Chapman State Park

10. Chapman State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Pennsylvania · 88 sites
Chapman State Park: A Haven for Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers.
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Campfires
Clear Creek State Park

11. Clear Creek State Park

100%
(2)
State park in Pennsylvania · 76 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Clear Creek State Park.
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Toilets
Campfires
Tionesta Lake

12. Tionesta Lake

100%
(1)
Park in Pennsylvania · 163 sites
Deep in the rugged hills of northwestern Pennsylvania, Tionesta Lake sparkles with a diversity of outdoor recreation and fun. The landscape offers scenic hiking, diverse wildlife, and rich layers of history. The lake offers enticing boating and productive fishing. The Seneca named this area "where the water separates the land"- making it the perfect respite for the amphibious.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cook Forest State Park

13. Cook Forest State Park

96%
(19)
State park in Pennsylvania · 234 sites
Discover the natural splendor of Cook Forest State Park.
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Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

14. Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

98%
(65)
Weston Mills, NY · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Firefly Acres Escape to Firefly Acres, where 93 acres of rolling countryside offer breathtaking valley views and the beauty of the Enchanted Mountains by day, followed by incredible star-filled skies at night. If you’re lucky—and patient—you might even catch a few shooting stars lighting up the sky. Our land is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, fox, owls, hawks, hummingbirds, bald eagles, and more. In the summer months, fireflies put on a magical display, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. With well-maintained hiking trails that are also great for mountain biking, there’s plenty to explore for both adventure seekers and those simply looking to wander and unwind. Firefly Acres is the perfect place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature, while still being conveniently close to restaurants and downtown Olean when needed. Spend your evenings cooking over our rustic fire pits or simply relaxing by the fire, enjoying the warmth and peaceful sounds of the outdoors. It’s a safe, open space for kids to run and families to reconnect, surrounded by the simple beauty of Mother Nature. * Showers are seasonal, with the last day of use on October 15th. You’re welcome to bring your own portable shower and use the shower house for privacy. * The shower system requires access to a cigarette lighter port (vehicle or portable battery) to power the pump. * The property is solar-powered with no electrical hookups, so we recommend bringing flashlights and backup battery packs for charging devices. On low-sun days, solar lighting may be limited. * During rainy or muddy conditions, and in winter, access to the hilltop sites may require 4WD, and even then, it is not guaranteed—especially in early spring. Please plan accordingly. Additional Policies: * Pets are welcome—please clean up after them. * No firearms or explosive devices of any kind are permitted on the property. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Firefly Acres offers a peaceful, scenic escape where you can truly unwind and enjoy the outdoors.
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Clarion Heights

15. Clarion Heights

99%
(145)
Johnsonburg, PA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Highlander

16. The Highlander

96%
(41)
Pittsfield, PA · 1 site
Vintage camp 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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Toilets
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Steelhead Run Recreation Area

17. Steelhead Run Recreation Area

99%
(175)
Westfield, NY · 2 sites
When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie. It is a short walk to beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. There are two camp sites adjacent from one another. One is labeled the east side and the other is labeled the west side. They are about 100 feet apart from one another. It is ideal for friends and/or family who would like camp as a group. The sites cannot accommodate boat trailers. 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 in town just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets in the summer months, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.
Pets
Full hookups
Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

18. Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

98%
(382)
Cattaraugus, NY · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Private forested land perched along the ledge of Zoar Valley — one of the most scenic and secluded spots in Western New York. Seven acres of hardwood forest, complete quiet, and zero neighbors. This is the kind of place you come to actually disconnect. 🔒 Two private sites, each with their own locked gate entrance and plenty of space between them. Whether you’re a couple looking to unwind or a group that needs room to spread out, this is a site for you. 🌳 The property borders state forest — hike straight from your campsite to the top edge of the valley for stunning views, or drive 15 minutes to Valentine Flats for creek access. 🌙 Shared porta potty on site, maintained regularly throughout the season. Firewood available for purchase on site ($15/bundle) — nearest town is about 25 minutes away, so grab supplies before you arrive or stock up here. ♻️ Take out what you take in. Leave it better than you found it. 🗺️ Plenty to do nearby — Zoar Valley rafting, Griffis Sculpture Park, Valentine Flats creek access, and more within a short drive. 🐾 Dogs welcome and off-leash friendly — one of the few private sites in the area where your dog can actually roam. $10/dog per stay.
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Presidential Primitive Getaway

19. Presidential Primitive Getaway

96%
(23)
Tionesta, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
Looking for a place to just relax and enjoy nature or are you wanting somewhere to camp that has access to superior public hunting? This property is 140 acres of private wooded land (no hunting permitted on our property). 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, but feel free to explore wherever you soul leads you. 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. Pets are allowed but please be considerate and clean up after them. Thank you 😊
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Picnic table
Chappel Hill Tree Farm

20. Chappel Hill Tree Farm

99%
(175)
Grand Valley, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
This 140-acre property is an old farmstead last farmed in the 1950's. It lies in the Allegheny Plateau region of NW Pennsylvania and is mostly hardwood forest today. It is surrounded by thousands of acres of private forestland and is very secluded. Our goal is to provide a private and secluded yet accessible camping experience where you will see more deer than people. AANR/TNS friendly. There is excellent Verizon and T-Mobile service. The skies are dark at night and the sounds of nature will surround you. Campsite 1 is near where the farmhouse and barn once stood. The site is shaded by large, old maples that once shaded the farmhouse. Old fields surround the farmstead, but the woods are a short walk away.  It is the most popular campsite with an outhouse, fire ring and picnic table available. Campsite 2 is on the other side of the property. There is a fire ring but no picnic table.  Both sites easily accommodate anything from tents to RV's. Each site has a separate, gated, gravel road access. These are the only 2 campsites on the property and they are far enough apart (1/4 mile) to avoid any contact should both sites be occupied. There is a 2-mile loop hiking trail on the property that traverses a variety of habitats which are home to many animals and birds. The trail is well maintained and mowed. The terrain is flat to gentle slopes. The 1/2-mile Narnia Loop trail weaves through a young spruce forest like a maze. It is so cool, literally, even on the hottest days. The Allegheny River is about 10 miles away, near Tidioute, PA, and has excellent paddling and fishing. Titusville, PA is about 15 miles away and is home to Oil Creek State Park which has great trout fishing, an excellent paved bike/hike trail, and Drake Well Museum site of the first oil well ever drilled. Finally, you will be on the doorstep to the Allegheny National Forest with all the outdoor recreation it has to offer. We hope you enjoy the peace and quiet of nature on our property as much as we have. If you are curious about more details of the history and management of the property, please ask your host, Dave Trimpey, and he will be glad to share his knowledge of the land.
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Allegheny Reservoir camping guide

Where to go

Allegany State Park

On the north end of the reservoir, Allegany State Park offers 65,000 acres of rare, old growth forest, two lakes, and rugged terrain with plenty of trails for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. Two developed areas—Quaker and Red House—offer more than 300 campsites, 350 cabins (142 winterized), and eight cottages. Amenities include swim beaches, playgrounds, playing fields, boat and bike rentals, and boat launches. Just west of the state park, in the Enchanted Mountains of New York, Onoville Marina Park offers nearly 100 seasonal and transient camping sites, some right along the shores of the reservoir.

Allegany Indian Reservation

The northwestern part of the reservoir is surrounded by the Allegany Reservation of the Seneca Nation of Indians, which also includes several towns, the city of Salamanca, and the Seneca-Allegany Casino. Campers can stay at the Highbanks Campground, across the reservoir from Allegany State Park’s Quaker Area. Options include tent sites and RV sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits, along with spacious cabins and chalets, and amenities that include a boat launch, pool, picnic areas, and playground.

Allegheny National Forest

A mecca for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the forest features 10 developed campgrounds. Willow Bay, Dewdrop, Kiasutha, and Red Bridge are the closest to the reservoir, and together offer more than 400 tent sites, RV sites, and rustic cabins. Most sites include picnic tables and fire rings, while many RV sites offer hookups and a dump station. For the best views, book a waterfront site or stay at a boat-in campground, such as Hopewell, Pine Grove, or Hooks Brook. With more than 500,000 acres, there’s plenty of space for dispersed camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Campers can stay at the Highbanks Campground, across the reservoir from Allegany State Park’s Quaker Area. Options include tent sites and RV sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits, along with spacious cabins and chalets, and amenities that include a boat launch, pool, picnic areas, and playground. You can also explore different options for camping near Allegheny Reservoir on Hipcamp.

The reservoir, along with the surrounding Allegany State Park, Allegany Reservation, and the Allegheny National Forest, offer water recreation, including swimming, paddling, boating, fishing, and flat water windsurfing, as well as hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails. You can also explore different options for camping near Allegheny Reservoir on Hipcamp.

The Highbanks Campground offers amenities such as a boat launch, pool, picnic areas, and playground. Allegany State Park offers amenities including swim beaches, playgrounds, playing fields, boat and bike rentals, and boat launches. Onoville Marina Park offers nearly 100 seasonal and transient camping sites, some right along the shores of the reservoir. You can also explore different options for camping near Allegheny Reservoir on Hipcamp.

Allegany State Park offers 65,000 acres of rare, old growth forest, two lakes, and rugged terrain with plenty of trails for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. Two developed areas—Quaker and Red House—offer more than 300 campsites, 350 cabins (142 winterized), and eight cottages. Amenities include swim beaches, playgrounds, playing fields, boat and bike rentals, and boat launches. You can also explore different options for camping near Allegheny Reservoir on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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