The best camping in Allegheny National Forest, PA

Rest and relax in an old-growth forest. This national treasure has lakes, streams, scenic byways, hiking trails, and lots of camping. Begin your getaway at Allegheny Reservoir, a 27-mile-long lake.

Fish along 91 miles of mostly undeveloped shoreline thick with trees. The reservoir is very popular, but there is plenty of space for you to find a cozy inlet. Launch your own boat or rent one from a guide in a nearby town.

Paddle along two wild and scenic rivers, the Allegheny and Clarion. Both rivers combine for 130 miles of heavy vegetation on their banks and gently rolling waters. Camp on some of the islands in either river for a rustic experience.

Hike to Farnsworth Cabin, a historic structure built in the 1930s. Use the cabin as your base for hiking through the Hickory Creek Wilderness. Watch for bears, deer, turkeys, barred owls, and pileated woodpeckers. Fish for brook trout in secluded Farnsworth Stream.

Several campgrounds and cabins allow for all types of camping.

• Best for hikers: Morrison Campground has 38 rustic campsites at the trailhead of the 10.5-mile Morrison Trail. 
• Best for getting on the water: Pine Grove Campground has 13 boat-in tent sites on the east shore of the Allegheny Reservoir.  
• Best for family campers: Red Bridge Recreation Area has popular tent-only and RV sites, some with electric or full hookups. 

1. You can reserve campsites and cabins at 11 of the Allegheny National Forest campgrounds via the Recreation.gov website. Other sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Campsite reservations open six months in advance and should be made a minimum of seven days before arrival.  
3. Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of three months in advance to avoid disappointment.

Peak season at Allegheny National Forest is April through October, but outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round. Come in spring to admire wildflowers, in fall to hike among fall foliage, or in winter to enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Campgrounds have varying opening seasons, with many open from May through October only. 

• Allegheny National Forest is 90 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, or about a 1-hour and 45-minute drive away.
• There is no admission fee to visit the park, but camping reservation fees apply, and ATV/OHV permits are required.
• Facilities include restrooms, picnic and day-use areas, and boat launches. Cell phone service is patchy throughout the forest. 
• There are accessible campsites, restrooms, and picnic areas at Allegheny National Forest.