Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe

The best camping in Allegheny Reservoir

·

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% (2.8K) 2,997 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Allegheny Reservoir

Austin Dam Memorial Park

1. Austin Dam Memorial Park

98%
(831)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

2. Zoar Valley Forest Retreat

98%
(385)
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 25 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Hideaway Valley

3. Hideaway Valley

98%
(81)
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
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.
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Lake Of The Woods Cabin Camp

7. Lake Of The Woods Cabin Camp

99%
(38)
Silver Creek, NY · 1 site
Welcome to our charming cabin, built in the summer of 2022 from a simple 12X26 Amish frame. *Important note: Lake Rd is busy and there will be road noise that dies down after 11pm. There is a historic and active railroad line behind the cabin and you will hear the train pass through the day and night. Some people have found it cool or relaxing but others have not. Nestled on its own 4-acre parcel within our family's 12-acre plot, this cozy retreat offers a private driveway and setting for your getaway. New additions this year include a fire ring and porta-potty, adding to the complete experience of your stay. Just a mile down the road, you'll find access to Lake Erie, boasting a small beach and kayak slip. On clear nights, don't miss the opportunity to gaze at the stunning stars above. Your host, Brian, has infused the cabin with photography and treasures from his global journeys, adding a unique touch to your stay. The hosts philosophy is to not bother you at all during your stay unless you have a specific need or concern, so your stay is all yours. The price is kept low to reflect this a campsite rental, not a hosted Airbnb. With that said every effort is made to make things comfy. Features include: - Private driveway - 12-foot porch with a porch bar - Four windows for a refreshing cross breeze (East-West orientation) - Finished floors, walls, and ceiling, with insulated walls for comfort - - 7-slot vinyl record bar for music enthusiasts - Wood stove (available November - February) - Lockable doors for security - Fire ring and camping chairs for outdoor enjoyment - Porta-potty with pump sink - Garbage bin and dish sink -Common Kitchen items like plates, bowls, cups, cutlery etc… -Garbage Bags (If garbage is used please take with you upon departure) True campsite experience and not an Airbnb rental, meaning there is no electricity, water, or sewer on the property. However, we provide battery packs and solar options for your convenience. The dish sink operates with a foot pump connected to a 5-gallon water jug. Guests are welcome to bring their own wood or explore the surrounding area for available resources. For your safety, please exercise caution when venturing into the woods and avoid approaching the active train tracks located at the back of the property. While the passing train adds to the rustic charm of the setting, it may NOT be suitable for light sleepers. Road traffic noise tends to calm down in quiet hours. Bed sleeps 2 but up to 3 welcome. We hope you enjoy your stay at what we believe is the coziest camp in WNY. Feel free to reach out with any questions or special requests. We look forward to hosting you soon!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

8. Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

99%
(366)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

9. Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

98%
(95)
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
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.
Pets
Toilets
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.
Pets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Campground Adventures

14. Campground Adventures

99%
(89)
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
Walsh Family Farm

15. Walsh Family Farm

100%
(17)
Mayville, NY · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Located on the Walsh Family Farm property, this camping area is set up for tent or RV camping. The location is a secluded, sectioned area of a field, with woods on two sides, close to the Chautauqua Rails for Trails entrance. There is fire wood for sale, a communal picnic table and fire pit on site. Located within walking, biking, or a short driving distance are the Chautauqua Rails for Trails, the Chautauqua Gorge, and the Westside Overland Trail. Additional courtesy camping items available at little cost upon request. Farm fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables, and farm raised meat available at farm stand. The entrance to the property is on Summerdale Road. From Lyons Road, turn right on to Summerdale Road. Drive past the first house on the right hand side. Just a little further down the road you will see a Harvest Host sign and a blue double field gate. Please park in the location indicated via text messaging confirmation.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Chappel Hill Tree Farm

16. Chappel Hill Tree Farm

99%
(179)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins

17. Cozy Embers Campground & Cabins

100%
(3)
Bradford, PA · 43 sites · Tents, 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Ruby's Rocks

18. Ruby's Rocks

95%
(107)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Steelhead Run Recreation Area

19. Steelhead Run Recreation Area

99%
(186)
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
Clarion Heights

20. Clarion Heights

99%
(151)
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
Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

Popular Allegheny Reservoir trips

Top national parks and forests in and near Allegheny Reservoir