The best camping in Raccoon Creek State Park, PA

·
88% (12)

The best camping in Raccoon Creek State Park, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Runnin Crazy Farm

6. Runnin Crazy Farm

96%
(260)
20mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · New Brighton , PA
Growing up and building on the back of our Family Farm is the best goal I ever set for myself! My Off-Grid 20 acres has raised my 2 kids and all the animals we could rescue! We run a Horse Boarding Facility along with Freezer Meat of all sorts. It's a small Hobby Farm but we love it all the same! Family environment that's down to earth! Learn more about this land: Sites 1 and 2 are for campers/tents. Sites 3 and 4 are tent only spots. No shade. Top tent spots up in field (3 and 4) need a higher vehicle to get to them. A bit Off Road. 3 has privacy with Antique Trailer but 4 is wide open. Fire ring at all of them/with wood. Horse stalls/guided trails available for the campers bringing their own horses. If advanced notice, an hour Lesson or Ride can be scheduled. Our animals are friendly and love attention. Dogs welcome but need a leash. Our Family run Farm is willing to accommodate your needs. Book a stay with us as you pass on thru. (Totally Off Grid livin my dream. Remember to burn burnables and take non burnables with you. Generators welcome) Thanx!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
DLR Mustang Ranch

7. DLR Mustang Ranch

100%
(18)
23mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salineville, OH
Located roughly 20 miles from Beaver Creek State Park, DLR Mustang Ranch is a 17-acre peaceful sanctuary for many wild and previously wild mustangs. The Ranch offers veteran and first responder mustang programs year-round. Please let us know if you are a veteran or first responder for a special rate. Accommodations include a small one-room cabin nestled on a little pond a stone's throw from the main house and veteran program area. The cabin has electricity, a microwave, small refrigerator, tv, futon, heating and cooling; however, it does not have plumbing. Nearby is an outhouse with electricity and a water pump fed from well water. There is a firepit for cooking and picnic tables available. There is also a flat space for tent camping right beside the cabin area. The outhouse and firepit are shared between the cabin and tent campers. If you prefer a more secluded experience, please book both sites. There is space for an RV in the driveway next to the woods with electric hookup and access to the outhouse, water pump, and firepit. While this is a working ranch with farm animals, our aim is to create a peaceful relaxing environment in order to unwind and enjoy the creation around us. Going in the pastures with horses while unaccompanied by the owners is prohibited; however, it can be arranged for you to meet and interact with the mustangs if interested. There are other farm animals including a sheep, a goat, pigs, donkeys, peacocks, turkeys, chickens, ducks and barn cats on the premises. If you want a quaint country escape complete with farm sounds, this is the spot for you!
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from 
$30
 / night
A-frame rustic cabin

9. A-frame rustic cabin

100%
(23)
25mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Salineville, OH
Bookings by request only. We want to make sure you’ll be equipped for limited amenities and primitive conditions. 3 miles from Dollar stores and fuel in Salineville, Ohio, **Primitive camping! Bare bones facility after November 30th. Book if you are an advanced winter camper only. (Bring your own bedding, cooking supplies, and as nightly temperatures drop, we will offer a Buddy heater at no additional charge, (bring your own 1lb or 20lb propane bottle) Secluded one acre lot on dead end road surrounded by hundreds of acres of woods. (The aerial map images are outdated. There are no other structures on this property) **2 campers recommended for Cabin ** Additional tent camping allowed at $10/person Included: - 8x10’ TINY a-frame cabin on a 12’x18’ deck with a 42"x6' loft and removable ladder. Lots of natural lighting! - Dutch style door with drop down screens, rear window is removable with a privacy curtain, and screen for air flow -Tiny stainless wood burner in cabin No water, bring your own after November 30th. -2 cots, 2 chairs, 1 table, auxiliary solar power for phone charging *(Bring an air mattress or air pads for more comfort, we understand that cots aren’t ideal for everyone) - fire pit with light duty grate for cooking, an additional state park style charcoal grill, lighter fluid provided (bring your own charcoal) - Primitive. Portable toilet removed for winter. Bathroom removed. (Composting sawdust bucket system outdoors only) - Lots of wildlife. Pines for hammocks(one hammock included) Lake view when leaves are off of trees. - plenty of space available to set up tents for your guests if you prefer. ***Firewood change: first bundle free. $5 additional bundle 10 pieces Feel free to reconfigure the cabin ****************************************************Please see our "extras" section for anything additional you may need, or something not on the list. We are avid campers ourselves! If you are a first-time camper venturing out and are a little nervous, we understand! Reach out and we can help you build your list.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$48
 / night
Sycamore Island

10. Sycamore Island

100%
(14)
30mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 1 site · Tent · Blawnox, PA
Camp on an island only accessible by boat/kayak/canoe or however you want to get across the river! Please read the full description. The island is open to visitors from dawn to dusk to enjoy the trails and wild scenery. Camp reservations secure your overnight visit to stay at the designated campsite area, which has a fire ring for cooking, a picnic table, and room for a tent or hammock. Sycamore Island can only be reached by your own canoe, kayak, or rowboat; watercraft is not provided. You are required to have a permit for an overnight stay: Please sign this form before submitting your stay request. https://alleghenylandtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Camping-at-Sycamore-Island-Rules-and-Regulations-4.5.16-Fillable.pdf Please plan your visit in advance- requests to camp the same day or day before may not receive a timely approval. Sycamore Island and its campsite are managed by Allegheny Land Trust, a 501c3 land conservation nonprofit helping local people save local land in the Pittsburgh region. We are able to review and respond to camping requests Monday - Friday between 9 am - 5 pm. Acquired and protected by Allegheny Land Trust in 2008, Sycamore Island is a floodplain forest with a ranking of “high significance” within the Allegheny River Biological Diversity Area (BDA) Natural Heritage Area. Before the island was protected by ALT, the island had periodic interludes of recognition and appreciation by humans as a natural refuge. In 1936, both Sycamore Island and Nine Mile Island were leased from the Pennsylvania Railroad by the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, making these islands the first bird sanctuaries in the Pittsburgh region. The Harbor Isle Boat Club was in existence on the island during the late 1960s but was later abandoned leaving behind several significant features; including a barge that remains embedded in the sand at the island’s southern tip, a partially installed swimming pool, docking platform, and a series of offshore pilings in the back channel.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
Sunnyday's Forest

11. Sunnyday's Forest

97%
(73)
33mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Tarentum, PA
Sunnyday's farm and forest was  a Christmas tree farm in the 1950's. I've owned it for the last 30 years and it is now a horse farm with pastures and  woods.Rustic area of 25 acres of pastures and forest bordering a hundred of acres of railroad and municipal forest. Great for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking. 1.5 miles from Deer Lakes park which has fishing, hiking, mountain biking and a great playground. The Allegheny river, judged to be one of the cleanest in the country, is just 6 miles away.  Harrison Hills park offers great hiking along the river and an occasional river otter. The Rachel Carson Trail and Baker trail are just a few miles away. It is a secluded log cabin in the woods on top of a hill overlooking a pasture. It is a very primitive cabin with a fireplace, brick floor, large porch, fabric interior and no chinking in the logs.  We provide a bunk bed and cots and 2 picnic tables.. There is a large grassy area in front of the cabin for tents.  There is no vehicle access, no electricity and no water at the cabin, but LOTS of downed wood for fires. There are horses, goats, chickens, ducks and a pig that roam the pastures. The cabin is about 300 yards from the parking area up a fairly steep hill, but the location is worth the walk!   If you're stopping with an RV or trailer we have ample parking near the road and have overnight accommodations for horses Great place for a stopover. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Sunset

14. Laurel Highlands Cannabis

100%
(16)
43mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fayette City, PA
Laurel Highlands Cannabis is a seed to shelf farm that prides itself in top quality flower and products. We strive to create an enjoyable and safe environment for all our guest. To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, we have established the following policies: 1. Food: Our campground offers a serene escape, to help you get to your "escape with less stress we offer a cooler of food upon your request! Our Chef will do the shopping and have it ready for you! We will cater to what you would like to eat and dietary needs. You will be responsible for the price of food plus delivery charge of $40. *Please order 24hrs prior to your arrival. 2.Dogs A- Permitted on Leash: We understand that many campers enjoy bringing their furry babies along for the adventure. Dogs are welcome at our campground, but they must be on a leash or a run. The fields have some groundhog holes, and we would be devastated if your dog was running and broke a leg if a leg slipped in a hole. We just want them safe. B- Awww poop! Alot of people use the camping area as a barefoot area so please clean up their poop. 3. Quiet time after 10PM: This just means no screaming. Play your guitar and sing until the sun rises if that makes you happy. 4. Alcohol: We would prefer you skip the drinks and just get high, but if your soul needs a drink please drink responsibly. (Don't be that guy) 5. Yurt comes down the end of September for rental. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these policies to create a harmonious camping experience for all. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our campground staff at info@laurelhighlandscannabisco.com Learn more about this land: You will be camping on top of our hill that overlooks the town, river, mountains and cannabis field when in season.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
Memory Park Campground

15. Memory Park Campground

100%
(204)
45mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · Mineral City, OH
Memory Park is a primitive, beautifully maintained family-owned private campground located near beautiful Atwood Lake State Park. First developed in 1968, Memory Park offers peace, quiet, and tranquility for you and your family for that perfect weekday or weekend getaway . There are plenty of primitive sites to choose from, including Murphy Meadow, Outback Bend, Honeymoon Point, and Shady Rest, just to name a few. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire pit. Firewood is available ($10 through hipcamp or cash on-site per full wheelbarrow load). Memory Park is the ideal rustic environment to restore the soul, including simple activities like sitting around a fire, reading or taking a nap, hiking, cooking over the fire, observing nature, and enjoying fellowship with friends. Memory Park can be your 'go to' camp spot, especially for Buckeye Trail hikers! Water is available from two hand pumps on the property. Electricity is not available. Quiet generators are welcome. A clean port-a-jon is maintained for our campers.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Rainbow over the barn

18. Bending Oak Permaculture Farm

100%
(21)
46mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 20 sites · Tents, Lodging · Youngstown, OH
Bending Oak Farm is an educational farm on 25 formerly clear cut acres. We are committed to our mission creating a more sustainable world by showing people what is possible. Through classes, workshops, school tours, community programs and hands-on experiences, we look to demonstrate attainable practices to better the lives of all people. We invite you to come and experience how you can create a more sustainable life for you, your family, friends and your community. To ensure an environment that is family friendly and mitigate the risk of injury Bending Oak does not permit alcoholic beverages or recreational drugs at the farm. Guests who stay in one of our permaculture cabins are participating in a permaculture design process where the goal is to create a system of abundance. During your stay, you will be challenged to think differently about how you go about meeting your daily needs. By design, you will encounter limits to the typical expectations of your living space, which grants you the opportunity to think deeply about what really is important to you and join us in exploring effective possibilities in meeting these expectations. After all, necessity is the mother of invention. This is our first study of building a sustainable living environment. We started with a blank slate, a new system designed with the permaculture principles in mind and the intention of ultimately creating a living space with the creature comforts we have all grown accustomed to. Eventually we will be building the next round of accommodations (principal: Small & Slow Solutions). When staying in one of our cabins, you are participating in this process by sharing with us your experience (principal: Observe & Interact), letting us know what you have discovered you can and can not live without, and possible solutions to efficiently address those needs and wants (principal: Apply Self Regulation & Accept Feedback).  We look forward to your stay with us and your participation in creating abundance in this living space!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Camp Presmont Camping

19. Camp Presmont Camping

95%
(40)
47mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 38 sites · Tents, Lodging · Piedmont, OH
At Camp Presmont our Mission Statement is: Employing the beauty of creation, Camp Presmont exists to serve the church, nurture the family, and reach the lost with the gospel in the power of the Spirit to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. By offering individual site rentals we are able to reach even more people for Christ. We do have a no drugs or alcohol policy for our property, this includes smoking. We feel that we have a small slice of paradise out here, so please come and check us out. The camp is located right above beautiful Peidmont lake, giving you a great view and opportunity for activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. We also have plenty of other activities available like basketball, volleyball, hiking, disc golf and more. (Bring own balls and discs). We would love to have you out and share with you the beauty that is our camp!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
88% (12)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Raccoon Creek State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Raccoon Creek State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Runnin Crazy Farm

96%
(260)
20mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · New Brighton , PA
Growing up and building on the back of our Family Farm is the best goal I ever set for myself! My Off-Grid 20 acres has raised my 2 kids and all the animals we could rescue! We run a Horse Boarding Facility along with Freezer Meat of all sorts. It's a small Hobby Farm but we love it all the same! Family environment that's down to earth! Learn more about this land: Sites 1 and 2 are for campers/tents. Sites 3 and 4 are tent only spots. No shade. Top tent spots up in field (3 and 4) need a higher vehicle to get to them. A bit Off Road. 3 has privacy with Antique Trailer but 4 is wide open. Fire ring at all of them/with wood. Horse stalls/guided trails available for the campers bringing their own horses. If advanced notice, an hour Lesson or Ride can be scheduled. Our animals are friendly and love attention. Dogs welcome but need a leash. Our Family run Farm is willing to accommodate your needs. Book a stay with us as you pass on thru. (Totally Off Grid livin my dream. Remember to burn burnables and take non burnables with you. Generators welcome) Thanx!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

DLR Mustang Ranch

100%
(18)
23mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Salineville, OH
Located roughly 20 miles from Beaver Creek State Park, DLR Mustang Ranch is a 17-acre peaceful sanctuary for many wild and previously wild mustangs. The Ranch offers veteran and first responder mustang programs year-round. Please let us know if you are a veteran or first responder for a special rate. Accommodations include a small one-room cabin nestled on a little pond a stone's throw from the main house and veteran program area. The cabin has electricity, a microwave, small refrigerator, tv, futon, heating and cooling; however, it does not have plumbing. Nearby is an outhouse with electricity and a water pump fed from well water. There is a firepit for cooking and picnic tables available. There is also a flat space for tent camping right beside the cabin area. The outhouse and firepit are shared between the cabin and tent campers. If you prefer a more secluded experience, please book both sites. There is space for an RV in the driveway next to the woods with electric hookup and access to the outhouse, water pump, and firepit. While this is a working ranch with farm animals, our aim is to create a peaceful relaxing environment in order to unwind and enjoy the creation around us. Going in the pastures with horses while unaccompanied by the owners is prohibited; however, it can be arranged for you to meet and interact with the mustangs if interested. There are other farm animals including a sheep, a goat, pigs, donkeys, peacocks, turkeys, chickens, ducks and barn cats on the premises. If you want a quaint country escape complete with farm sounds, this is the spot for you!
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from 
$30
 / night

A-frame rustic cabin

100%
(23)
25mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 1 site · Lodging · Salineville, OH
Bookings by request only. We want to make sure you’ll be equipped for limited amenities and primitive conditions. 3 miles from Dollar stores and fuel in Salineville, Ohio, **Primitive camping! Bare bones facility after November 30th. Book if you are an advanced winter camper only. (Bring your own bedding, cooking supplies, and as nightly temperatures drop, we will offer a Buddy heater at no additional charge, (bring your own 1lb or 20lb propane bottle) Secluded one acre lot on dead end road surrounded by hundreds of acres of woods. (The aerial map images are outdated. There are no other structures on this property) **2 campers recommended for Cabin ** Additional tent camping allowed at $10/person Included: - 8x10’ TINY a-frame cabin on a 12’x18’ deck with a 42"x6' loft and removable ladder. Lots of natural lighting! - Dutch style door with drop down screens, rear window is removable with a privacy curtain, and screen for air flow -Tiny stainless wood burner in cabin No water, bring your own after November 30th. -2 cots, 2 chairs, 1 table, auxiliary solar power for phone charging *(Bring an air mattress or air pads for more comfort, we understand that cots aren’t ideal for everyone) - fire pit with light duty grate for cooking, an additional state park style charcoal grill, lighter fluid provided (bring your own charcoal) - Primitive. Portable toilet removed for winter. Bathroom removed. (Composting sawdust bucket system outdoors only) - Lots of wildlife. Pines for hammocks(one hammock included) Lake view when leaves are off of trees. - plenty of space available to set up tents for your guests if you prefer. ***Firewood change: first bundle free. $5 additional bundle 10 pieces Feel free to reconfigure the cabin ****************************************************Please see our "extras" section for anything additional you may need, or something not on the list. We are avid campers ourselves! If you are a first-time camper venturing out and are a little nervous, we understand! Reach out and we can help you build your list.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$48
 / night

Sycamore Island

100%
(14)
30mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 1 site · Tent · Blawnox, PA
Camp on an island only accessible by boat/kayak/canoe or however you want to get across the river! Please read the full description. The island is open to visitors from dawn to dusk to enjoy the trails and wild scenery. Camp reservations secure your overnight visit to stay at the designated campsite area, which has a fire ring for cooking, a picnic table, and room for a tent or hammock. Sycamore Island can only be reached by your own canoe, kayak, or rowboat; watercraft is not provided. You are required to have a permit for an overnight stay: Please sign this form before submitting your stay request. https://alleghenylandtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Camping-at-Sycamore-Island-Rules-and-Regulations-4.5.16-Fillable.pdf Please plan your visit in advance- requests to camp the same day or day before may not receive a timely approval. Sycamore Island and its campsite are managed by Allegheny Land Trust, a 501c3 land conservation nonprofit helping local people save local land in the Pittsburgh region. We are able to review and respond to camping requests Monday - Friday between 9 am - 5 pm. Acquired and protected by Allegheny Land Trust in 2008, Sycamore Island is a floodplain forest with a ranking of “high significance” within the Allegheny River Biological Diversity Area (BDA) Natural Heritage Area. Before the island was protected by ALT, the island had periodic interludes of recognition and appreciation by humans as a natural refuge. In 1936, both Sycamore Island and Nine Mile Island were leased from the Pennsylvania Railroad by the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, making these islands the first bird sanctuaries in the Pittsburgh region. The Harbor Isle Boat Club was in existence on the island during the late 1960s but was later abandoned leaving behind several significant features; including a barge that remains embedded in the sand at the island’s southern tip, a partially installed swimming pool, docking platform, and a series of offshore pilings in the back channel.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night

Sunnyday's Forest

97%
(73)
33mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Tarentum, PA
Sunnyday's farm and forest was  a Christmas tree farm in the 1950's. I've owned it for the last 30 years and it is now a horse farm with pastures and  woods.Rustic area of 25 acres of pastures and forest bordering a hundred of acres of railroad and municipal forest. Great for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking. 1.5 miles from Deer Lakes park which has fishing, hiking, mountain biking and a great playground. The Allegheny river, judged to be one of the cleanest in the country, is just 6 miles away.  Harrison Hills park offers great hiking along the river and an occasional river otter. The Rachel Carson Trail and Baker trail are just a few miles away. It is a secluded log cabin in the woods on top of a hill overlooking a pasture. It is a very primitive cabin with a fireplace, brick floor, large porch, fabric interior and no chinking in the logs.  We provide a bunk bed and cots and 2 picnic tables.. There is a large grassy area in front of the cabin for tents.  There is no vehicle access, no electricity and no water at the cabin, but LOTS of downed wood for fires. There are horses, goats, chickens, ducks and a pig that roam the pastures. The cabin is about 300 yards from the parking area up a fairly steep hill, but the location is worth the walk!   If you're stopping with an RV or trailer we have ample parking near the road and have overnight accommodations for horses Great place for a stopover. 
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

Laurel Highlands Cannabis

100%
(16)
43mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fayette City, PA
Laurel Highlands Cannabis is a seed to shelf farm that prides itself in top quality flower and products. We strive to create an enjoyable and safe environment for all our guest. To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, we have established the following policies: 1. Food: Our campground offers a serene escape, to help you get to your "escape with less stress we offer a cooler of food upon your request! Our Chef will do the shopping and have it ready for you! We will cater to what you would like to eat and dietary needs. You will be responsible for the price of food plus delivery charge of $40. *Please order 24hrs prior to your arrival. 2.Dogs A- Permitted on Leash: We understand that many campers enjoy bringing their furry babies along for the adventure. Dogs are welcome at our campground, but they must be on a leash or a run. The fields have some groundhog holes, and we would be devastated if your dog was running and broke a leg if a leg slipped in a hole. We just want them safe. B- Awww poop! Alot of people use the camping area as a barefoot area so please clean up their poop. 3. Quiet time after 10PM: This just means no screaming. Play your guitar and sing until the sun rises if that makes you happy. 4. Alcohol: We would prefer you skip the drinks and just get high, but if your soul needs a drink please drink responsibly. (Don't be that guy) 5. Yurt comes down the end of September for rental. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these policies to create a harmonious camping experience for all. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our campground staff at info@laurelhighlandscannabisco.com Learn more about this land: You will be camping on top of our hill that overlooks the town, river, mountains and cannabis field when in season.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night

Memory Park Campground

100%
(204)
45mi from Raccoon Creek State Park · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · Mineral City, OH
Memory Park is a primitive, beautifully maintained family-owned private campground located near beautiful Atwood Lake State Park. First developed in 1968, Memory Park offers peace, quiet, and tranquility for you and your family for that perfect weekday or weekend getaway . There are plenty of primitive sites to choose from, including Murphy Meadow, Outback Bend, Honeymoon Point, and Shady Rest, just to name a few. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire pit. Firewood is available ($10 through hipcamp or cash on-site per full wheelbarrow load). Memory Park is the ideal rustic environment to restore the soul, including simple activities like sitting around a fire, reading or taking a nap, hiking, cooking over the fire, observing nature, and enjoying fellowship with friends. Memory Park can be your 'go to' camp spot, especially for Buckeye Trail hikers! Water is available from two hand pumps on the property. Electricity is not available. Quiet generators are welcome. A clean port-a-jon is maintained for our campers.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

Other options near Raccoon Creek State Park

The best camping in Raccoon Creek State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

Blankets of bluebells, violets, and red and white trilliums set the landscapes ablaze each spring and summer at Raccoon Creek State Park. The 314-acre wildflower reserve is the park’s crown jewel, with 4.5 miles of trails and more than 700 plant species to spot, but the outdoor adventures don’t stop there. Head to Racoon Lake to boat, fish, or swim in summer, explore 27 miles of hiking trails, or bring your mountain bike, horse, or snowmobile—there are 11 miles of multi-use trails, too. Campers can choose from cabins, rustic camping, or modern electric hookup campsites.  

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for family campers: The main Racoon Creek State Campground has tent and trailer campsites, many with electric hookups, plus warm showers and flush toilets. 
  • Best for tent campers: Sioux Rustic Campground has primitive camping open through winter, but facilities are limited (non-flush toilets and potable water only). 
  • Best for backpackers: Pioneer Backpacking Area has walk-in tent-only primitive camping—bring everything you need with you, including drinking water.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve one of 172 campsites and 10 cabins via the Pennsylvania State Parks website. 
  2. Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance, and sites can be reserved up until noon on the day of arrival.
  3. Campsites can book up fast, especially if visiting during peak season (April-October) or on holiday weekends. Aim to book at least three months in advance, especially for cabins.

When to go

The spring and summer wildflower blooms are the star attraction at Racoon Creek, and the season peaks in late April and late August. Fall foliage is equally spectacular, and typically peaks in mid-October. It’s warm enough to swim at the lake from late May through mid-September, while winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. Camping is possible year-round at Sioux Rustic Campground, but the main campground closes from mid-October through mid-October.

Know before you go

  • Raccoon Creek State Park is west of Pittsburgh, about a 40-minute drive away. Entry points are located along PA 18, which runs through the park.
  • There are no admission fees for Pennsylvania State Parks, but campsite booking fees apply. 
  • Facilities in the park include restrooms, picnic areas, food concession stands, boat rentals, boat launches, an electric car charging station, and a playground. 
  • Fires are only permitted in grills and fire rings.
  • You can bring your own boats (electric motors only). Swimming is permitted at the swimming beach only.
  • There are ADA-accessible campsites, cabins, and restrooms at the park. The swimming beach is also accessible.

88%
12 ratings · 4 reviews