The best great views campgrounds 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.

99% (646)

Top-rated campgrounds near 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.

99% (646)

Top-rated campgrounds near Allegheny Reservoir

1. Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

98%

(62)

8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. You will need to have a cigarette lighter access to use the shower to power the pump. We recommend bringing flashlights as our property is solar powered and there is no electric on the property. On low sunny days, solar lights may not last as long into the evening. On rainy days the property can be very muddy and access to the top of the hill to the sites would be best accessed with a 4WD vehicle as well as winter time with snow on the ground. If you'd like to charge your phone we advise you to bring back up battery packs as there is now electric hook ups on site. The most private sites are Cloud 9, Bunny Pit and Lilou's Landing. The cottage is located down by the main house and not at the top of the hill. Pets are welcome, please clean up after your dog. * No firearms or explosive devices of any kind are allowed on the property.

2. The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

99%

(64)

1 site · Lodging · 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. 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.

3. Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

99%

(360)

5 sites · Tents · 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.

4. Triple Dream Farm

100%

(117)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Smethport, PA

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.

5. Campground Adventures

99%

(83)

42 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

6. Feather and Hoof Tent Campsite

97%

(43)

2 sites · Tents · Machias, NY

Seeking a farm stay getaway? We've got you covered! With stunning views of the sunset and sunrise, the perfect spot for stargazing, and acres of wooded hiking trails, our campsite offers the ideal setting to unwind and escape. There's plenty to explore and experience during your stay. Our farm is home to over 100 animals to meet. A charming farm store is stocked with essentials and amenities including a full bathroom with a hot shower. We provided firewood pre-order and delivery, meal baskets for self-catering, and bicycle & tent rentals. Rest assured; we've got everything you need.

7. Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

97%

(18)

1 site · RV · Westfield, NY

CONSTRUCTION ALERT BEGINNING AUG 11th. Barn raising behind the campsite. Will not obstruct the view. A Nature Lovers Paradise. 40 acres of private land on a rural road with a developed driveway 30 amp service and Amish rain shelter. Breathtaking views of lake Erie sunsets and Canadian windmills. A gentle breeze and stargazing welcomes you. Nearby activities include horseback, riding, wine tasting, breweries, Chautauqua Institution, Amish markets, rural bike riding, hiking along the Chautauqua gorge. Limited man-made light perfect for stargazing. Serenade by farm animals nearby with plenty of deer, crickets and silence except for the Fourth of July. Bear, Deer, coyote, song birds, bunnies abundant. NO AGGRESSIVE DOG BREADS that will chase or hunt the wildlife. Rustic picnic table on site. NO FIREWORKS. Firewood can be picked up in town or forged on the property. No cutting down or damaging trees. This is a quiet area not for any loud noises or partying. One night fee charge if garbage is left behind (that includes cigarette butts). Port-a-potty on site. Sorry about all the rules but, you never know. Back acres provide plenty of hiking and a secret beaver dam. The driveway newly installed 2022 and directly off the road. Will need levelers because there is a mild incline. LEAVE NO TRACE. GARBAGE IN/GARBAGE OUT. Send me a picture of your set up!!! Enjoy

8. Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

97%

(43)

1 site · Tent · Union City, PA

This stand-alone secluded campsite sits in the woods above an extremely unique stretch of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) Facing northwest over the valley, it offers stunning sunset views. The Union City Dam floods the valley during wet periods making a beautiful (though temporary) lakefront campsite before slowly draining away. 100s of acres of protected land create a wildlife haven. Centrally located between 2 small towns with many local attractions. Union City Dam: Situated on the high-side of the Union City Dam, a dry-bed flood control dam. During snowmelt or rainy spells, the dam fills and floods the entire valley. During dry spells, French Creek appears as any other creek. At full flood, it becomes a breathtaking lake front campsite. Unfortunately, these natural events only occur a few weeks out of the year and are fairly unpredictable, but provide a truly spectacular setting (compare the high-water vs low-water views in the photos). Wildlife: At the end of a dead-end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of a number of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagle’s nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, and frequently crossing the valley. All types of waterfowl flock the reservoir lake when flooded. I've personally witnessed up to 1000 geese and 100’s of wild swans at once. Local Attractions: The small towns of Union City and Waterford have gas stations, grocery stores, great local dining options, and more. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. 40-min drive to Presque Isle State Park, one of the only free state parks left in the US. 15-min drive to Port Farms a farm-themed amusement park for the kids and Poverty Knob Brewery for the adults. DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit. Security cameras may be in use at the driveway entrance.

Camper favorites in and near Allegheny Reservoir

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Triple Dream Farm

100%

(117)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Smethport, PA

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.

Campground Adventures

99%

(83)

42 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Feather and Hoof Tent Campsite

97%

(43)

2 sites · Tents · Machias, NY

Seeking a farm stay getaway? We've got you covered! With stunning views of the sunset and sunrise, the perfect spot for stargazing, and acres of wooded hiking trails, our campsite offers the ideal setting to unwind and escape. There's plenty to explore and experience during your stay. Our farm is home to over 100 animals to meet. A charming farm store is stocked with essentials and amenities including a full bathroom with a hot shower. We provided firewood pre-order and delivery, meal baskets for self-catering, and bicycle & tent rentals. Rest assured; we've got everything you need.

Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

97%

(18)

1 site · RV · Westfield, NY

CONSTRUCTION ALERT BEGINNING AUG 11th. Barn raising behind the campsite. Will not obstruct the view. A Nature Lovers Paradise. 40 acres of private land on a rural road with a developed driveway 30 amp service and Amish rain shelter. Breathtaking views of lake Erie sunsets and Canadian windmills. A gentle breeze and stargazing welcomes you. Nearby activities include horseback, riding, wine tasting, breweries, Chautauqua Institution, Amish markets, rural bike riding, hiking along the Chautauqua gorge. Limited man-made light perfect for stargazing. Serenade by farm animals nearby with plenty of deer, crickets and silence except for the Fourth of July. Bear, Deer, coyote, song birds, bunnies abundant. NO AGGRESSIVE DOG BREADS that will chase or hunt the wildlife. Rustic picnic table on site. NO FIREWORKS. Firewood can be picked up in town or forged on the property. No cutting down or damaging trees. This is a quiet area not for any loud noises or partying. One night fee charge if garbage is left behind (that includes cigarette butts). Port-a-potty on site. Sorry about all the rules but, you never know. Back acres provide plenty of hiking and a secret beaver dam. The driveway newly installed 2022 and directly off the road. Will need levelers because there is a mild incline. LEAVE NO TRACE. GARBAGE IN/GARBAGE OUT. Send me a picture of your set up!!! Enjoy

Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

97%

(43)

1 site · Tent · Union City, PA

This stand-alone secluded campsite sits in the woods above an extremely unique stretch of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) Facing northwest over the valley, it offers stunning sunset views. The Union City Dam floods the valley during wet periods making a beautiful (though temporary) lakefront campsite before slowly draining away. 100s of acres of protected land create a wildlife haven. Centrally located between 2 small towns with many local attractions. Union City Dam: Situated on the high-side of the Union City Dam, a dry-bed flood control dam. During snowmelt or rainy spells, the dam fills and floods the entire valley. During dry spells, French Creek appears as any other creek. At full flood, it becomes a breathtaking lake front campsite. Unfortunately, these natural events only occur a few weeks out of the year and are fairly unpredictable, but provide a truly spectacular setting (compare the high-water vs low-water views in the photos). Wildlife: At the end of a dead-end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of a number of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagle’s nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, and frequently crossing the valley. All types of waterfowl flock the reservoir lake when flooded. I've personally witnessed up to 1000 geese and 100’s of wild swans at once. Local Attractions: The small towns of Union City and Waterford have gas stations, grocery stores, great local dining options, and more. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. 40-min drive to Presque Isle State Park, one of the only free state parks left in the US. 15-min drive to Port Farms a farm-themed amusement park for the kids and Poverty Knob Brewery for the adults. DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit. Security cameras may be in use at the driveway entrance.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

C

Christopher

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

I loved tent camping at this site and campground. She was very clear and concise with the directions. Bathroom could have been closer to the site, but apart from that it was an amazing stay.

D

Dresden

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

An absolute gem of a site. The cabin itself had everything we needed. Was already warmed up for us upon arrival on a snowy evening and held heat well throughout our weekend. Ben gave us a great hiking recommendation that we took advantage of and it was just what we were looking for. Enjoyed our evenings by the campfire and morning coffee on the steps by the river. Instructions were clear and easy to follow. We are already planning our next trip out here!

D

Dennis

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

Wonderful place, very kind host, simple place to stay.

E

Emily

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

Incredible stay! The Nest allows you to disconnect and enjoy all of the beautiful nature around you. The host was phenomenal at communicating and I will definitely visit again in the future!

M

Michele

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

Stunning view, clean campsites and bathroom was. I will definitely be back.

S

Steve

October 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Triple Dream Farm

Marie was fantastic in every aspect with directions and explaining about her lively farm. Very beautiful area as we sere there at the peak of Fall at Allegany. If you enjoy out of the hustle and bustle and want to enjoy all aspects of a farm, this is your place . Dont miss out on the breakfast either.

S

Sarah

October 2025

3 nights at The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

This was the perfect spot to get away and unwind. The views are beautiful. We loved just listening to the creek. We would love to come back!

Olga Farm at Night. Photo by Robert Smith

t

tommy

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

5 nights at Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

Been there a couple times and this spot never disappoints! Great hosts, beautiful camping area, perfect for stargazing or just to have a relaxing few days in a serene environment. I couldn’t rave enough about this place!! 10/10 always!!

a

alizada

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

It is a wonderful place. Especially driving in the woods

H

Heather

October 2025

10 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Triple Dream Farm

It was our second time staying and it's been great! It's a good location, and also just very peaceful and private while camping. The hosts are super nice and we would definetly come again.

Erin

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

We loved that this cabin was both small/rustic/affordable and still outfitted with all the big amenities. The heat, bathroom, TV, and cooking appliances were all fantastic, the outdoor area was spacious and the view down the creek from it lined up perfectly with the sunset! Had a great weekend exploring ANF from here, thanks!

J

Justin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

Fantastic place to camp. Unfortunately weather wasn't perfect so we didn't get to see the stars, but there is always next time! If you stay here make sure to check out the town of Coudersport

C

October 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

With kids

4 nights at Firefly Acres - Star Gazing Views

We had such an amazing time and the attention to details at the camp area was lovely. Thank you!

M

Mallory

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Triple Dream Farm

10/10 Marie was a total sweetheart. We had issues with our shower, but she was quick to resolve them, and we had a great stay! Loved the hammocks and the animals were adorable

M

Malachi

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Stargazing Field at Olga Farm

We loved tent camping at John & Olga’s farm!! John was super friendly and knowledgeable about astronomy, and he told us the perfect time to get up to see the best stars. The site was private and the compost toilet was no more than 30 steps from our tent. We even had a cat friend come visit us several times throughout our stay! We will definitely be back!

Eric

October 2025

23 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Campground Adventures

The hosts were so wonderful to chat with and very welcoming! The campground was amazing, from the expansive sites complete with water and power hookups (if needed) to the many various glamping sites. It is an eclectic mix of fun for everyone! The little store in the trolly was super cute. This place has it all. I would definitely recommend this place for family gatherings or the solo adventurer.

L

Laura

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

We loved our night on David’s land. The view was true to expectations and we experienced a lovely sunset while building a fire and making dinner. The site is very private and tranquil in the evening, and while the gravel pit excavators begin to work early during the week, their activity was a good distance away from our site and didn’t bother us at all.

Terrence

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

It was so nice we visited twice. This was our second time at this site. David is a great host and the site is secluded and scenic.

M

Megan

September 2025

3 nights at The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

HIGHLY recommend! Great location, not far from civilization but far enough away to get a BREAK! The Nest is a cute/comfy little cabin with everything you need! Even a crockpot which was great to have dinner cooking while we were out fishing! My favorite part of the location was there is no service or WiFi, you truly get to unplug and get away from the devices that take over our lives on a daily basis. Plenty of movies to wind down the night with. Ben and Ginny are great hosts, Ginny walked us through and told us everything we needed to know. The bedroom has air which was very helpful on the hot nights and kept the entire cabin cool. We were warned about a pesky little bird but didn’t have any issues nor did we have many concerns because we did put ourselves in the middle of the forest with the expectation we might encounter some animal friends!! We will 100% be back to the Nest! Hopefully a couple different times in the next year!

Rachel

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Feather and Hoof Tent Campsite

So cute and beautiful night sky! Awesome stop on my trip thank you!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping in Allegheny Reservoir 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.