The best forest camping near Port Matilda

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Looking for a camping adventure near Port Matilda, Pennsylvania? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 800 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite that suits your accommodation preference, activity/terrain preference, and budget. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or renting a cabin, Hipcamp has got you covered. Explore top-rated campsites like Bald Eagle Campsite (360 reviews), Fairview Farms Airfield (294 reviews), or Austin Dam Memorial Park (221 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly spaces. Plus, immerse yourself in exciting activities such as exploring historic sites, paddling, or off-roading (OHV). Don't miss out on the camping experience of a lifetime!

98% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Bellefonte Campground

1. The Bellefonte Campground

97%
(18)
21mi from Port Matilda · 11 sites · Lodging · Bellefonte, PA
Bellefonte Campground is situated on close to 40 acres in the heart of central Pennslyvania, just minutes from State College and near some of the best fishing spots in Pennsylvania, including Fisherman's Paradise on Spring Creek. At Bellefonte Campground, you'll have plenty of space to enjoy! Our expansive campground offers lots of wide-open Pennsylvania acreage for you to explore. Each site features a picnic table and fire ring, providing the perfect setting for family gatherings. And don't forget: We are a pet-friendly campground. Bellefonte Campground is your gateway to a host of exciting local attractions. Experience the thrill of a Penn State football game: Beaver Stadium is about 15 minutes away. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Nearby Spring Creek offers excellent fly fishing opportunities. Or head out to Bald Eagle State Park, where you'll find an abundance of scenic trails and fascinating wildlife. With such an array of activities, your stay at Bellefonte Campground promises to be a truly unforgettable one.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$180
 / night
Campfire - site 13

2. Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1614)
8.8mi from Port Matilda · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · Tyrone, PA
Originally opened as a family campground owned and operated by Denis and Kay Snyder in 1964. Bald Eagle Campsite has been owned and operated by the Snyder family to this day! Come join us in the beautiful forested landscape of Central Pennsylvania. Located a mere 20 miles south of Penn State University, we are surrounded by the many amenities Central PA has to offer. We are welcoming to LGBTQ+ campers as well as all ethnicities. Pitch a tent on a quiet site and drop a line into one of our two trout streams crossing the campground. Hang a hammock between two towering poplar trees surrounded by flowering rhododendron. Or pull up in your camper and relax before and after a Penn State Football game under the blue and white sky. We have small, secluded sites to get away from it all, as well as conjoined sites to accommodate larger groups. On property we have bathrooms, hot showers, and a recreation hall with free ping pong, board games, and billiards. For a fee, we also have firewood, electricity, and a large event tent for rent. Campers must be less than 25 feet. Generators are not allowed. Music should not reach outside your own site after 9pm. There are no water hookups. Vehicle noise is audible from route 350, especially on Friday afternoons. Noise is diminished at sites further back from route 350. Our sites are wheelchair accessible, but the bathrooms and showers do have one step up into them. Walk to Snappy's 24-hour convenience store to use their free Wi-Fi, buy bags of ice, or to pickup snacks and a sub in the attached Snappy's Grille. An ice cream stand and restaurant are within walking distance. We require a minimum two nights stay for the recognized holiday weekends for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Lauder Family Campground

8. Lauder Family Campground

100%
(2)
25mi from Port Matilda · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchville, PA
Discover the charm of Lauder Family Campground, a unique destination that offers a blend of serene nature and convenient amenities for both RV and tent campers, as well as cozy cabin rentals. Nestled near state game lands and the Mosquito Creek Sportsmen's Club, this campground is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With ample space for privacy and relaxation, Lauder Family Campground provides a peaceful retreat for families and friends alike. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring nearby swimming holes. The campground's proximity to Penn State University in Frenchville makes it an ideal spot for visitors and alumni seeking a tranquil getaway. In addition to its natural attractions, the area boasts local restaurants and shops, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you're looking to unwind in a cabin or set up camp under the stars, Lauder Family Campground is your gateway to adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
Wilbur's Shed

9. Wilbur's Shed

99%
(132)
38mi from Port Matilda · 1 site · Tent, RV · Blairs Mills, PA
Let your children and dogs roam free without a leash. This property is remote and private. There are no neighbors nearby. This location is; twenty minutes north of I-76 Turnpike Willow Hill Exit forty-five minutes from Raystown Lake one hour and thirty minutes north of Gettysburg one hour and thirty minutes south of PSU three hours east of Pittsburgh three hours west of Philadelphia five hours west of NYC There is some cell service, but it is limited. Can you hear me now? Be sure to save site information on your phone before you leave, in case you lose cell-service. This is not Alaska, but it is not a KOA campground, either. We recommend you print of bring a paper map. Your GPS will not bring you to the exact driveway location. You need to be personally observant. This is the top of a mountain ridge. The access lane is steep, rocky, and has water erosion ditches you must drive over. Do not attempt this if you have a low profile car or a new/fragile camper. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended. Low profile and fancy cars are not recommended. This camping site is for those who want to live ruggedly like Lewis Clark. To see the water ditches you must drive over, go to YouTube and search "Wilbur's Shed - Blairs Mills", and it is the account of a cat with a white face. This location is in a mix of farmland and mountain Appalachia. You will see common species such as chipmunks, squirrels turkey and deer. Many bird species. There are also porcupines, skunks, and black snakes around. You may also see black bear - it is rare, but possible. You are visiting wildlife species in their natural habitat. Please be self-aware of your own level comfort with wildlife. Once again, this is not an RVs park where you will socialize with a hundred other campers. This is primitive and isolated. This is an ideal camping spot if you want to escape from people. Nearby is the Tuscarora Creek which is excellent for trout fishing. The Tuscarora has a small but lovely window for kayaking from mid-March through the end of May. Please contact the host if you would like help to plan some paddle logistics. Rental through Hipcamp does not include hunting or the use of firearms, nor the use of dirt bikes and ATVs.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Gordon Glen Woods

14. Gordon Glen Woods

100%
(25)
47mi from Port Matilda · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Belsano, PA
Gordon Glen Woods is nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania and is an eight-acre wooded land adjacent to 8,200 acres of state game land and is 1.5 miles from two trailheads of the Ghost Town Trail, Pennsylvania’s trail of the year 2020. There is 49 miles of trail from Ebensburg to Indiana Pennsylvania. Visit Ghost Town Trail for more information. We have two campsites that can accommodate campers up to 30 feet and are easily accessible yet secluded. Both campsites include a fire ring, free first load of firewood, a table, and close access to the Bathroom Bungalow that contains a composting toilet, mirror, and plenty of room to change. There is no running water or electricity. A convenient dump station, located at Yellow Creek Campground, is only 8 miles on Rt. 422. Enjoy a nature walk trail around the property. Avid and novice birdwatchers will enjoy the sounds of the wood thrush and more than 25 species on our wooded property. Robert Gordon Violin Maker’s studio is on site. Tours are available to learn about the history of violin making, and if your timing is right, enjoy an old-time music circle jam most weekends. Visit Robert Gordon III Violin Maker for more information. Private camping, non-commercial. Quiet Hours 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. We will consider one-night stays for weekdays. Family and dog friendly. Dogs must be controlled. Within a short drive there are many area attractions: .5 miles - Ghost Town Trail 5 miles - Duman Lake County Park 8 miles - Yellow Creek State Park 14 miles - Path of the Flood Trail 17 miles - John Mayer Trail 17 miles - Johnstown Flood Museum 19 miles - Johnstown Incline Plane that began service in 1891 (temporarily closed) 19 miles - Cassandra Railroad Overlook 20 miles - Johnstown Flood National Memorial 20 miles - Lemon House Federal Park 26 miles - Horseshoe Curve Historic Landmark 26 miles - Prince Gallitzin State Park 35 miles - Railroaders Memorial Museum 47 miles - Flight 93 National Memorial, Shanksville, PA Several local breweries and distilleries within 25 miles or less: Coal Country Brewing, Ebensburg Moonshine Mine Distillery, Ebensburg Stonebridge Brewing, Johnstown Levity Brewing, Indiana Noble Stein Brewing, Indiana Disobedient Spirits Distillery, Homer City Local Eateries: Krispy Kreme Drive-In, Belsano The Grove, Belsano The Break Room, Twin Rocks Pour on Center, Ebensburg
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Ridge Top Retreat

15. Ridge Top Retreat

100%
(26)
36mi from Port Matilda · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Westover, PA
We are located in beautiful Clearfield county Pennysalvina. Our farm is on over 150 acres. It’s has been in the family for generations. It has beautiful farm views with wooded areas. There is lots of wildlife to see. Including bear, bobcat, deer, eagles, fishers, and many other species. We have lots of hiking trails and our property also boarders state game lands. It’s a short drive to the Susquehanna River and other parks. You can also enjoy the cows, goats, peacocks, chickens, ducks, and turkeys at the farm. Contact the host and set up a time to visit and feed the animals. Learn more about our family farm and the animals. We also have a sawmill and wood shop. Nearby is Bilgers Rocks, Rock Run Atv Park, Prince Gallitzin State Park, the Susquehanna River, and many other fantastic outdoor activities. It’s a place to unwind and relax. And connect with nature. This is in a very rural part of Pennsylvania and camping in the winter weather can be difficult. So please prepare yourself with additional sleeping bags for winter. The tent is heated but because of the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous weather you need to be prepared. The bathroom is also outdoors so there will not be a shower provided till after the freezing weather. And the loo is not heated. It is also recommended that you have all wheel drive or 4 wheel drive to get to the campsite in the winter. It is possible to walk from road to site. But you should consider this when booking. RTR is a very beautiful place in the winter but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Treehouse Waters On The River

19. Treehouse Waters On The River

90%
(5)
49mi from Port Matilda · 1 site · Lodging · Hopewell, PA
This riverfront, fully equipped, beautifully crafted treehouse is not your average child's treehouse, but kids are certainly welcome. Walk up the easy 14 steps into this A Frame tiny house and you'll be surprised at the roominess. Inside you'll discover a full kitchen, full bathroom with shower, living area with sofa bed sectional, dining area, and loft with a queen bed. Step out on the deck, just a stone's throw from the river and listen to the sounds below of the gurgling moving water over the rocks. Move down below the treehouse to find another huge deck with a hot tub, relaxing seating, and a table for dining outside. But that's not all; step off that deck to a fire pit and steps leading to the river. The river is great for swimming, fishing, and boating and we even supply a canoe and kayaks.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night

Looking for a camping adventure near Port Matilda, Pennsylvania? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 800 options to choose from, you'll find the perfect campsite that suits your accommodation preference, activity/terrain preference, and budget. Whether you prefer pitching a tent, parking your RV, or renting a cabin, Hipcamp has got you covered. Explore top-rated campsites like Bald Eagle Campsite (360 reviews), Fairview Farms Airfield (294 reviews), or Austin Dam Memorial Park (221 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly spaces. Plus, immerse yourself in exciting activities such as exploring historic sites, paddling, or off-roading (OHV). Don't miss out on the camping experience of a lifetime!

98% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Bellefonte Campground

1. The Bellefonte Campground

97%
(18)
21mi from Port Matilda · 11 sites · Lodging · Bellefonte, PA
Bellefonte Campground is situated on close to 40 acres in the heart of central Pennslyvania, just minutes from State College and near some of the best fishing spots in Pennsylvania, including Fisherman's Paradise on Spring Creek. At Bellefonte Campground, you'll have plenty of space to enjoy! Our expansive campground offers lots of wide-open Pennsylvania acreage for you to explore. Each site features a picnic table and fire ring, providing the perfect setting for family gatherings. And don't forget: We are a pet-friendly campground. Bellefonte Campground is your gateway to a host of exciting local attractions. Experience the thrill of a Penn State football game: Beaver Stadium is about 15 minutes away. Looking for something a little more relaxing? Nearby Spring Creek offers excellent fly fishing opportunities. Or head out to Bald Eagle State Park, where you'll find an abundance of scenic trails and fascinating wildlife. With such an array of activities, your stay at Bellefonte Campground promises to be a truly unforgettable one.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$180
 / night
Campfire - site 13

2. Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1614)
8.8mi from Port Matilda · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · Tyrone, PA
Originally opened as a family campground owned and operated by Denis and Kay Snyder in 1964. Bald Eagle Campsite has been owned and operated by the Snyder family to this day! Come join us in the beautiful forested landscape of Central Pennsylvania. Located a mere 20 miles south of Penn State University, we are surrounded by the many amenities Central PA has to offer. We are welcoming to LGBTQ+ campers as well as all ethnicities. Pitch a tent on a quiet site and drop a line into one of our two trout streams crossing the campground. Hang a hammock between two towering poplar trees surrounded by flowering rhododendron. Or pull up in your camper and relax before and after a Penn State Football game under the blue and white sky. We have small, secluded sites to get away from it all, as well as conjoined sites to accommodate larger groups. On property we have bathrooms, hot showers, and a recreation hall with free ping pong, board games, and billiards. For a fee, we also have firewood, electricity, and a large event tent for rent. Campers must be less than 25 feet. Generators are not allowed. Music should not reach outside your own site after 9pm. There are no water hookups. Vehicle noise is audible from route 350, especially on Friday afternoons. Noise is diminished at sites further back from route 350. Our sites are wheelchair accessible, but the bathrooms and showers do have one step up into them. Walk to Snappy's 24-hour convenience store to use their free Wi-Fi, buy bags of ice, or to pickup snacks and a sub in the attached Snappy's Grille. An ice cream stand and restaurant are within walking distance. We require a minimum two nights stay for the recognized holiday weekends for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Lauder Family Campground

8. Lauder Family Campground

100%
(2)
25mi from Port Matilda · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Frenchville, PA
Discover the charm of Lauder Family Campground, a unique destination that offers a blend of serene nature and convenient amenities for both RV and tent campers, as well as cozy cabin rentals. Nestled near state game lands and the Mosquito Creek Sportsmen's Club, this campground is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors. With ample space for privacy and relaxation, Lauder Family Campground provides a peaceful retreat for families and friends alike. Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and fishing to exploring nearby swimming holes. The campground's proximity to Penn State University in Frenchville makes it an ideal spot for visitors and alumni seeking a tranquil getaway. In addition to its natural attractions, the area boasts local restaurants and shops, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you're looking to unwind in a cabin or set up camp under the stars, Lauder Family Campground is your gateway to adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$17
 / night
Wilbur's Shed

9. Wilbur's Shed

99%
(132)
38mi from Port Matilda · 1 site · Tent, RV · Blairs Mills, PA
Let your children and dogs roam free without a leash. This property is remote and private. There are no neighbors nearby. This location is; twenty minutes north of I-76 Turnpike Willow Hill Exit forty-five minutes from Raystown Lake one hour and thirty minutes north of Gettysburg one hour and thirty minutes south of PSU three hours east of Pittsburgh three hours west of Philadelphia five hours west of NYC There is some cell service, but it is limited. Can you hear me now? Be sure to save site information on your phone before you leave, in case you lose cell-service. This is not Alaska, but it is not a KOA campground, either. We recommend you print of bring a paper map. Your GPS will not bring you to the exact driveway location. You need to be personally observant. This is the top of a mountain ridge. The access lane is steep, rocky, and has water erosion ditches you must drive over. Do not attempt this if you have a low profile car or a new/fragile camper. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended. Low profile and fancy cars are not recommended. This camping site is for those who want to live ruggedly like Lewis Clark. To see the water ditches you must drive over, go to YouTube and search "Wilbur's Shed - Blairs Mills", and it is the account of a cat with a white face. This location is in a mix of farmland and mountain Appalachia. You will see common species such as chipmunks, squirrels turkey and deer. Many bird species. There are also porcupines, skunks, and black snakes around. You may also see black bear - it is rare, but possible. You are visiting wildlife species in their natural habitat. Please be self-aware of your own level comfort with wildlife. Once again, this is not an RVs park where you will socialize with a hundred other campers. This is primitive and isolated. This is an ideal camping spot if you want to escape from people. Nearby is the Tuscarora Creek which is excellent for trout fishing. The Tuscarora has a small but lovely window for kayaking from mid-March through the end of May. Please contact the host if you would like help to plan some paddle logistics. Rental through Hipcamp does not include hunting or the use of firearms, nor the use of dirt bikes and ATVs.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Gordon Glen Woods

14. Gordon Glen Woods

100%
(25)
47mi from Port Matilda · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Belsano, PA
Gordon Glen Woods is nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania and is an eight-acre wooded land adjacent to 8,200 acres of state game land and is 1.5 miles from two trailheads of the Ghost Town Trail, Pennsylvania’s trail of the year 2020. There is 49 miles of trail from Ebensburg to Indiana Pennsylvania. Visit Ghost Town Trail for more information. We have two campsites that can accommodate campers up to 30 feet and are easily accessible yet secluded. Both campsites include a fire ring, free first load of firewood, a table, and close access to the Bathroom Bungalow that contains a composting toilet, mirror, and plenty of room to change. There is no running water or electricity. A convenient dump station, located at Yellow Creek Campground, is only 8 miles on Rt. 422. Enjoy a nature walk trail around the property. Avid and novice birdwatchers will enjoy the sounds of the wood thrush and more than 25 species on our wooded property. Robert Gordon Violin Maker’s studio is on site. Tours are available to learn about the history of violin making, and if your timing is right, enjoy an old-time music circle jam most weekends. Visit Robert Gordon III Violin Maker for more information. Private camping, non-commercial. Quiet Hours 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. We will consider one-night stays for weekdays. Family and dog friendly. Dogs must be controlled. Within a short drive there are many area attractions: .5 miles - Ghost Town Trail 5 miles - Duman Lake County Park 8 miles - Yellow Creek State Park 14 miles - Path of the Flood Trail 17 miles - John Mayer Trail 17 miles - Johnstown Flood Museum 19 miles - Johnstown Incline Plane that began service in 1891 (temporarily closed) 19 miles - Cassandra Railroad Overlook 20 miles - Johnstown Flood National Memorial 20 miles - Lemon House Federal Park 26 miles - Horseshoe Curve Historic Landmark 26 miles - Prince Gallitzin State Park 35 miles - Railroaders Memorial Museum 47 miles - Flight 93 National Memorial, Shanksville, PA Several local breweries and distilleries within 25 miles or less: Coal Country Brewing, Ebensburg Moonshine Mine Distillery, Ebensburg Stonebridge Brewing, Johnstown Levity Brewing, Indiana Noble Stein Brewing, Indiana Disobedient Spirits Distillery, Homer City Local Eateries: Krispy Kreme Drive-In, Belsano The Grove, Belsano The Break Room, Twin Rocks Pour on Center, Ebensburg
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Ridge Top Retreat

15. Ridge Top Retreat

100%
(26)
36mi from Port Matilda · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Westover, PA
We are located in beautiful Clearfield county Pennysalvina. Our farm is on over 150 acres. It’s has been in the family for generations. It has beautiful farm views with wooded areas. There is lots of wildlife to see. Including bear, bobcat, deer, eagles, fishers, and many other species. We have lots of hiking trails and our property also boarders state game lands. It’s a short drive to the Susquehanna River and other parks. You can also enjoy the cows, goats, peacocks, chickens, ducks, and turkeys at the farm. Contact the host and set up a time to visit and feed the animals. Learn more about our family farm and the animals. We also have a sawmill and wood shop. Nearby is Bilgers Rocks, Rock Run Atv Park, Prince Gallitzin State Park, the Susquehanna River, and many other fantastic outdoor activities. It’s a place to unwind and relax. And connect with nature. This is in a very rural part of Pennsylvania and camping in the winter weather can be difficult. So please prepare yourself with additional sleeping bags for winter. The tent is heated but because of the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous weather you need to be prepared. The bathroom is also outdoors so there will not be a shower provided till after the freezing weather. And the loo is not heated. It is also recommended that you have all wheel drive or 4 wheel drive to get to the campsite in the winter. It is possible to walk from road to site. But you should consider this when booking. RTR is a very beautiful place in the winter but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Treehouse Waters On The River

19. Treehouse Waters On The River

90%
(5)
49mi from Port Matilda · 1 site · Lodging · Hopewell, PA
This riverfront, fully equipped, beautifully crafted treehouse is not your average child's treehouse, but kids are certainly welcome. Walk up the easy 14 steps into this A Frame tiny house and you'll be surprised at the roominess. Inside you'll discover a full kitchen, full bathroom with shower, living area with sofa bed sectional, dining area, and loft with a queen bed. Step out on the deck, just a stone's throw from the river and listen to the sounds below of the gurgling moving water over the rocks. Move down below the treehouse to find another huge deck with a hot tub, relaxing seating, and a table for dining outside. But that's not all; step off that deck to a fire pit and steps leading to the river. The river is great for swimming, fishing, and boating and we even supply a canoe and kayaks.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$250
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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