97% (38 reviews)
Popular ways to camp
Camper favorites near Allegheny National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Snag reservations at sold-out campgrounds.
Get notified the instant a site becomes available, for free.
Find all the best options
Access 12k+ public and private campgrounds—from public parks to blueberry farms.
Book with confidence
Reserve community-vetted spots reviewed by 62k+ happy campers.Stories from the community
B
Bethany
1 week ago
Tent
We tent camped, had a fire, watched fireflies and really enjoyed taking photos of the abandoned schoolhouse. The host has put a lot of solar lighting up to really make your photos pop as well as assuring your safety navigating the property in the dark. Really unique location, we enjoyed it tremendously and I know we will talk about it for years to come.
See more
c
chris
1 week ago
12 ft pop-up camper
Clean, organized, well maintained. Very responsive staff. Great location. Nice tall trees provide good shade in most sites. If you are a remote worker, you'll love The Hub. It's a co-work space right on the property. Nice rustic interior design. The outreach attracts courteous guests. I was there 4th of July weekend. No excessive barking dogs or loud music. Just a nice vibe. I recommend this campground.
See more
J
Justin
1 week ago
15 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We really enjoyed our first stay at Rustic Acres, especially the amenities for kids and families. Nice large playground, cornhole boards, and the hub (an air conditioned indoor space when we needed a break from the heat) were the things we used the most. We plan on visiting again soon.
See more
A
Ashley
1 week ago
Tent
We arrived later than anticipated but getting to site was no issue at all. Our site was perfect and was spaced out nicely from others. Really nice coffee shop at top of hill. Host and other guest were all friendly and welcoming. Would recommend.
See more
M
Meir
2 weeks ago
Tent
Fantastic stay, lovely trails, and the host was very easy to communicate with.
See more
V
Virginia
2 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
This is an amazing hip camp. Part of our family was on the Open Field and part were up at the River Ridge site. We all gathered on the open field for meals. One side was shady in the morning and the opposite side by the campfire and picnic table was shady in the evening. We had hot days so we found water activities in the afternoons. The waterfall on the property was just as described and so fun. Another day we hiked part of the North Country Trail and had ice cream in Parker. The outhouse was in good condition just as described and a short walk from our camper. Sunsets were beautiful!! Chris was immediate with responses to any questions. If you are bringing a camper pay attention to his instructions for getting there!
See more
M
Megan
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had an amazing time and absolutely loved exploring Chris’s property. It was beautiful!
See more
Alison
2 weeks ago
25 ft Class B
With pets
Todd was an excellent host. He greeted us upon arrival and gave us a tour of the property. He also told us a lot about the area and things to do. The property is amazing! Beautiful trail, a river and creek, which is deep enough to swim in. We brought our rafts and floated in the river part. It was nice and relaxing. My husband and I will defiantly be back!
See more
M
Mike
2 weeks ago
Tent
Couldn't have been any easier to enjoy a beautiful spot. Can park within 10 feet and it's all flat. There is also a very clean and large tent setup if needed. Water was beautiful along our spot and was great to cool down in. Would definitely recommend if you want a quiet scenic spot that's easy to get to and enjoy.
See more
J
Jenna
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
My kids and I loved tent camping here. Great place!
See more
L
Laurel
2 weeks ago
With pets
The view and location was perfect. Very private and secluded. Ben and his mom was so nice and accommodating. Everything was clean and as pictured.
See more
A
Amy
2 weeks ago
29 ft travel trailer
We had a great weekend, the campsites were very secluded and level . We can’t wait to go back and our dogs loved it!!!
See more
A
Amy
2 weeks ago
29 ft travel trailer
Group trip
We had a great weekend , the property is amazing and very secluded. The sites were very level and the fire pit area was great. We can’t wait to go back , and our dogs loved it!!!
See more
D
Dave
2 weeks ago
23 ft Class C
With pets
Very nice grounds at Lake Lucy RV Park. Not a ‘Chuck E Cheese’ type of atmosphere!
See more
Jacob
2 weeks ago
Tent
My partner and I spent 5 days on the property. It was beyond perfect, the view, the noises, everything.
When we arrived, there was one other couple staying at one of the other sites, but left later that day. We didn't hear any other person/group while we were there. The site was exactly as described and as the pictures showed. Waking up to the foggy valley and beautiful skies wowed us every time. At night, the skies lit up the sky, that you could see between the trees and over the valley. There was a family of raccoons that visited us every night, trying to get some of our desserts from the fire. We had to scare them away a few times, but they did seem a little used to people and needed an extra yell to send them away.
The site is well sheltered by the trees, allowing some sun in, but overall keeping you protected from the heat. The walk to the waterfall is a bit slippery, but so quick and well worth the trek. The waterfall itself is an experience on itself, and had some moments of Zen and relaxation just watching and listening to the water.
The Town of Parker is about a 20 minute drive that we made a few times for ice. There is some cell service at the site, but we left our phones off most of the time and just recharged our minds and bodies.
I CAN NOT recommend this site enough. Everything about it was above any of my expectations. Chris was attentive in checking in and seeing if we needed more firewood when another guest left and told him it was all gone.
See more
J
Jordan
2 weeks ago
14 ft pop-up camper
With kids
What a fantastic campsite! My kids thought it was really cool to have to drive up and down the hills and back roads to get there. The 110 outlets made it so easy for me to plug-in what we needed to enjoy our camp. We absolutely loved going down to the creek and exploring it together. The scenery here is simply beautiful. In 24 hours we saw a fox and eagle and three deer! All of us kind of freaked out when we saw the fox because we none of us have ever seen one.
See more
A
Ashley
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Had an awesome stay! Would definitely come back. Owners are friendly and responsive. The site was clean, private, and quiet. There’s a field across from the site that we laid out in, could be nice for stargazing! Only negative was the amount of glass in the field. Assuming it’s just from the fill since the rest of the camp is pretty well maintained, just be careful with pets and kiddos over there. The outhouses and shower were a nice touch. Brought a magnetic light and was able to shower at night. Made a few froggy friends and got some bird watching in before even hitting the trails. Overall a great spot!
See more
Alicia
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
David's campsite exceeded our expectations in tranquil views and a peaceful oasis that's not too far from home. Came during June when the dam was filled up so we had an incredible view of the water. All the lightening bug activity was a mesmerizing show every night. Walked to the Union City dam up the street one day, another day we went to Presque Isle. Lots of trees perfect for setting up a hammock. Saw a turkey, lots of deer, frogs, heard coyote at night. Lots of stargazing. Great campsite! Thanks for hosting us, David!
See moreN
Nichole
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF
Ben's communication was very prompt and helpful from the first contact! The cabin was located along the Tionesta creek which was very serene and calm. There was easy access to the road and our vehicle for unloading/packing up. The cabin had all the amenities for comfort and fun the woods- electric, hot water, shower, A/C, fire wood/fire pit, kayaks, and picnic table. Ben's mom met us as soon as we arrived and explained everything about the cabin to make sure we felt comfortable and ready to enjoy the cabin and then left us in privacy. Thank you Ben and we look forward to our next escape at your rustic and cozy cabin along the creek.
See more
Mariah
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We enjoyed our stay VERY MUCH! Her dad Tim was very friendly and attentive. He was right there when you needed him but still fat enough to still have privacy. The view from the hill top was everything for us. We star gazed at night and walked the trails in the morning. We saw salamanders, chipmunk, frogs and different mushrooms. It was so serene. Highly recommend!
See moreTop public campgrounds in the park
Stay at a public campground in Allegheny National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds near Allegheny National Forest
Camping in Allegheny National Forest guide
Overview
About
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.
Notable campgrounds
- 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.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- 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.
- Campsite reservations open six months in advance and should be made a minimum of seven days before arrival.
- Campsites can book up as fast, especially on summer and holiday weekends. Book a minimum of three months in advance to avoid disappointment.
When to go
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.
Know before you go
- 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.
97%
38 ratings · 16 reviews
Recommends
· December 2018
Beaver Meadows Recreation area used to be a fully functional campground, but now is available for dry camping. It's fun to walk through the old campground that still has posts, picnic tables, and even a fenced in blueberry patch!
Craig I.
6 years on Hipcamp
October 2018
Beaver Meadows has been shut down for over two years.
David S.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2018
Great place, spent my childhood here, good fishing.
A
Andrew S.
6 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2018
Spent a long weekend at this campground with my wife and Boxer Izzy. It was amazing! The only way to get to this campground is by boat or hike. My wife and I hiked in and set up camp right in the water. There was clean drinking water and a vault toilet. 5 stars!
W
William N.
7 years on Hipcamp
I have stayed at this campground a few times. It is located near the Hickory Creek Wilderness, a very lush 12.1 mile loop with backcountry sites. Hearts Content is a great place to stay the night before or after a backpacking trip. Firewood is available at the campground for $10 for a large bundle. Site 12 is a large wooded site with a lean-to. It is located near a toilet & water. Site was $14 is 2015.
Becky & Melanie W.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· January 2018
Nice place by the Allegheny river, nice areas to hike nearby.
M
Meghan M.
7 years on Hipcamp
Mixed feelings
· November 2017
It was a fine hike into the campground. I personally like more mountainous views. Heavy traffic during popular time of the year.
Joe B.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· September 2017
Trails are unmarked
K
Kate F.
7 years on Hipcamp
July 2017
We had an awesome time at Red Bridge Campground & ANF. We reserved sites 60 + 61. Site 60 was nice and grassy, offering a cozy spot for tents. Site 61 wasn't grassy and in fact was a little rocky (making it tough to get tent stakes in the ground), BUT it was about 30 feet from the amazing, beautiful reservoir, which made it all OK. :) The plenty of trees surrounding the site allowed for us to hang a dog runner line & some hammocks. It was pretty up-close and personal to site 62, which also has a small trail to the water. Our neighbors were cool, but next time we go with friends, we'll try try book 61 + 62 for proximity and privacy. We also took advantage of the North Country Nat. Trail, which was BEAUTIFUL and a great, challenging hike!
Christen R.
10 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
The sites directly on the bay (79 and higher I believe) are well worth the hike-in trek to the sites. You probably will have your own mini-beach on your site and the morning views and glass-like bay are irreplacable! Bring something warm to sleep in, these are well shaded spots and it tends to get a little chilly overnight. Ah, and bring your kayak - you won't regret it!
K
Kristen P.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
While the campground may not be secluded, Allegheny National forest is breathtaking. Just a few minutes away from some gorgeous hikes and views.
Bethany C.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· March 2017
There are many ATV trails around here.
Anthony F.
8 years on Hipcamp
July 2016
Camped here last year in site 53. The best sites are #66 & 68. They are prime sites with gorgeous views right on Willow Bay. Sadly, there's no hookups for the lake sites. Only the sites on the woods side have electricity.
There are modern bathrooms with showers.
There's other campgrounds in the Alleghenys, but I liked Willow Bay the best. The campsites are decently spaced.
Like Tim S reported, the bears were rather aggressive last year. While we were there one ripped into a popup to get some buns inside. Always be bear aware!
Cynthia K.
9 years on Hipcamp
March 2016
Beautiful place, very peaceful, out of the way. Will definitely go there again.
Charlie C.
9 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
A beautiful area. Lots of primitive camping as well as campgrounds.
Dickie I.
9 years on Hipcamp
August 2015
Nice tent site camping just off the North Country Scenic Trail. Watch out for bears though! Hung our food way up a tree, but momma bear sent her two little cubs up there to get it. The bears are not shy of campers there and come daily for the buffet.
T
Tim S.
9 years on Hipcamp
Related Searches
- Allegheny National Forest