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.

97% (3K) • 2,997 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Allegheny Reservoir

The Heron Farm & Event Center

1. The Heron Farm & Event Center

97%
(640)
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!
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Austin Dam Memorial Park

2. Austin Dam Memorial Park

98%
(525)
PA · 8 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

3. Campground Adventures

99%
(97)
NY · 35 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Allegheny National Forest

4. Allegheny National Forest

94%
(40)
National forest in Pennsylvania · 742 sites
Find plenty to do in this half-million-acre national forest in northwestern Pennsylvania.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
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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Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins

6. Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins

100%
(14)
Bradford, PA · 36 sites · RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins, where there’s always room around the fire. RV, cabin, or tent—you’ll leave with a little more cozy than you came with. Set within the Allegheny National Forest, we offer full hookup RV sites and tent camping alongside rustic cabins, glamping accommodations, and a deluxe cabin—something for every kind of adventurer. Enjoy a sparkling pool, large wooded campsites, and a growing list of new renovations and upgrades designed to make each stay even more memorable. Located just 10 minutes from the 12,000-acre Allegheny Reservoir, you’ll find endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and exploring. With hiking, biking, and snowmobile trails nearby—and Kinzua Bridge State Park only 30 minutes away—Cozy Embers is the perfect place to unwind, reconnect, and make lasting memories.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

7. Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

97%
(86)
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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The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

8. The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

99%
(87)
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
Clarion Heights

9. Clarion Heights

99%
(123)
Johnsonburg, PA · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
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
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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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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
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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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Hideaway Valley

14. Hideaway Valley

98%
(90)
Springville, NY · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Over 1000 feet of frontage on Cattaragus creek. Great for fishing. Large gravel pad for cars or RV. Great spot to start or end Kayaking trip. Zoar valley tavern with food and live music is less than 1/4 mile away. Firewood available. $10 for a wheelbarrow full. Driveway located about 300 feet west of Hammond Hill road. Creek side. Approximately 6379 Zoar valley rd.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Ruby's Rocks

15. Ruby's Rocks

96%
(115)
Wilcox, PA · 1 site · Tent, RV
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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Angie's Country Cabins B&B

16. Angie's Country Cabins B&B

97%
(74)
Cassadaga, NY · 6 sites
Amazing little camping spot, we have 6 cabins on site nestled in the woods as well as a guest room we rent. Check in 5 to 9 pm Check out 11 am at latest Drive up cabins are now the love shack and the moonlit lodge. Nice back porch at the main house with shared hot tub- bar- table- grill.. Plenty of Parking. you can drive right up to the love shack cabin or our moonlit 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, friendly 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. From may 1 to Oct 30 , we have a seasonal flush toilet. Off season from Oct 31 to end of April , we have a primitive outhouse for guest use Hot tub use : only touch the 2 left buttons which are keys and lights. Do not touch other buttons cover must be put back on after use. No loose trash put in our trash cans Extra fees apply when our policies are not followed
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The Highlander

17. The Highlander

97%
(47)
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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Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

18. Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

97%
(109)
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
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Ellicottville Woods

19. Ellicottville Woods

100%
(29)
Great Valley, NY · 1 site · Tent, RV
13 beautiful wooded acres, 7 minutes from Holiday Valley and Ellicottville village. Flat area for pitching a tent or a camper plus parking, electricity (20amp regular exterior outlet) and an outhouse. Running stream further along the property for water in winter and spring (filter before drinking). Holiday Valley offers skiing (voted #6 in the East), mountain biking (dedicated bike lifts to the top of the hills), zip lining and the village has great restaurants and breweries.
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Triple Dream Farm

20. Triple Dream Farm

100%
(127)
Smethport, PA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Hipcamp hosts since 2017 on a 99 acre farm, we are located approximately 2 hours south from either Erie, PA or Buffalo, NY, 3 hours north of Pittsburgh, PA and just west of Potter County, PA. We offer 2 camping experiences on the farm - Open Pasture Campsite (May 1st - October 31st) AND Boondocking RV Camping (year-round, but dependent on weather and availability). Please chose the camping experience/site that will suit you and your groups needs. We are close to the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk with breathtaking views and beautiful year-round hiking, the Kinzua Dam for boating and water activities abundant outdoor activities at the nearby Allegheny National Forest will insure that you will have plenty to do during your stay! We are 30 minutes from Bradford, PA, home of the Zippo/Case Museum and Flag Ship Store and Penn-Brad Oil Museum. Lumber Museum, Rock City Park & Jakes's Rocks/Allegany National Forest are all a short drive. The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is nearby for day trip for additional hiking and other outdoor activities along with wondrous views and activities. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) equine rescue and all fees go directly to the daily care of rescued equines and related activities as well as community outreach and education.
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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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