The best camping in Simon B. Elliott State Park, PA

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Neal Homestead Camp Sites

95%
(210)
31mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Brookville, PA
Camp is on 50 acres with a pink marked trail to Red Bank Creek on the western border and back up through a hemlock forest along south border. A small stream runs through the property and forms a rocky delta in Red Bank Creek. All camp sites are on the eastern border and close to the main road to access property. Hike, enjoy the sound of the stream tickling through property, stargaze, or rest, watch nature's critters, read or just relax in a hammock. No hunting on property but fishing permitted along "river" aka Red Bank Creek. Please keep fires in firepit and noise levels low. Set up to be most natural, minimal mowing, and sites meant to be more private. We let you know if you have others on property. No running water or flush toilets on sites unless in your self-contained camper. A compost loo provided. Lots of kindling can be easily gathered for a fire. Consider ordering some ahead of time if it has been raining though. There is a tarp and a wheelbarrow to collect logs and kindling and move to your site.
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$18
 / night

The Bellefonte Campground

97%
(15)
44mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 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.
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$180
 / night

Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

99%
(79)
33mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Sigel, PA
This is your spot. Your own private campground on 5 acres of forest canopy that we unofficially call "Fern Gully", this site is literally adjacent to scenic Clear Creek State Park (1211 acres) and pristine "old-growth" Clear Creek State Forest (16229 acres). A few short miles to Clarion River (2019 River of the Year) launch access! You can bring your boat and do some fishing, or rent canoes/kayaks/tubes and float away the day. Less than 10 miles to Cook Forest State Park (8500 acres), Allegheny National Forest, and North Country Trailhead! Accessible by RVs of any size. Tent campers welcome! Don't have an RV?? Check out RVshare.com to discover loads of options! A driveway leads to a large, flat landing where RVs can set up. Electric (50 and 20 amp) + pressurized water hook-up at sites. Fire pits on location. Split firewood can be purchased as an "extra". The road in can be rough, just go slow, it's not ours, we are working with the state to fix it. Do it your way! Come relax and unwind or get out and get active. Enjoy the serenity and solitude that nature provides at this quiet hideaway for peace and tranquility. UPDATE: We recently purchased a park model camp for our own personal family use. That was always our dream goal, a home away from home. It will be parked on the far end of the lot. it will not affect your campsite or privacy, but we want to mention it in the listing for transparency. Your experience, privacy and enjoyment are important to us. If you have any questions, feel free to ask prior to booking. Thank you. POINTS of INTEREST: -Clear Creek State Park swimming area is minutes away, right down the road! -25+ miles of hiking trails within walking distance from camp. -Beartown Rocks is within hiking distance or a short drive. -The Seneca Point Overlook/Firetower is a must-see -For those looking for a leisure walk or cyclists, Rails-to-Trails paved trail is a unique experience, stop and see our friends at Lost In The Wilds brewery for a cold refreshment. *Check Out the following websites for some great, detailed information on the surrounding area: DCNR PAWILDS VISITPAGO
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$43
 / night

Scenic Altoona Camp

42mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 1 site · RV · Altoona, PA
Located between the 17th Street and Pinecroft I-99 exits in Altoona, this spot makes for an easy pit stop while traveling through. We’re about 45 minutes south of State College and 35 minutes north of Bedford. The property includes a 100-foot-long parking space below our garage. Our quiet neighborhood sits on a dead-end street, adjacent to hundreds of acres of wooded watershed land. The wide, mile-long street is a popular place for a leisurely stroll. Please note that you will hear traffic from I-99, as the lower end of the property borders the highway. Nearby Adventures Canoe Creek State Park – 911 acres of natural beauty with a 155-acre lake for fishing and boating, plus hiking trails, swimming, and picnic areas. Bells Gap Rail Trail – A multi-use trail offering both easy, flat sections for walking or biking and rugged stretches for mountain biking and hiking. Valley View Park – A 45-acre green space in Altoona with wooded paths, open fields, and family-friendly picnic spots. Chimney Rocks Park – Near Hollidaysburg, featuring striking limestone formations and overlooks with sweeping valley views.
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$25
 / night

The Nest - Creekfront Cabin In ANF

99%
(64)
44mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 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.
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$125
 / night

Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1614)
32mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 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.
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$30
 / night

Elevated RV Camping at Rustic Acres

98%
(41)
48mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 40 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Shippenville, PA
Your basecamp for Clarion County adventures—just 4 easy miles off I-80. Welcome to Rustic Acres RV Resort & Campground, a pet-friendly, family-friendly forest retreat nestled on 24 wooded acres near the Clarion River and over 3,000 acres of State Game Lands. Whether you’re here for RV camping, van life, tent camping, overlanding, or luxury glamping, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax, explore, and reconnect with nature. Adventure is right at your doorstep with direct trail access from camp for biking and hiking! Explore Clarion County trails, Cook Forest State Park, and the Clarion River, or hop on nearby biking routes for an active day outdoors. Rustic Acres is your forest gateway to Pennsylvania’s rivers, woods, and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers, families, solo travelers, and digital nomads. Choose from: - Full hookup RV sites (30/50 amp) for all-sized rigs - Van and small-rig friendly sites close to a bathhouse and The Hub - Primitive camping & overlanding sites for a more natural experience - Luxury glamping tents & retro campers for a cozy forest escape All guests enjoy thoughtfully designed amenities that blend comfort with rustic charm: - Camp store stocked with essentials, snacks & firewood - Free WiFi throughout the property, perfect for working remotely - The Hub – modern lounge and dedicated remote workspace with coffee & tea bar - Playground, shuffleboard, corn hole, and family recreation areas - Community fire pit, gathering lawn & picnic spaces - Direct access to scenic hiking & biking trails — step out your door into the forest - Clean bathhouses and convenient on-site laundry Located minutes from local shops, restaurants, and area attractions, Rustic Acres combines quiet forest camping with easy access to outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, family vacation, or extended seasonal stay, Rustic Acres is where nature, comfort, and community come together. Come experience the simple joys of outdoor living with modern amenities!
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$39
 / night

Ridge Top Retreat

100%
(26)
29mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 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.
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$25
 / night

Triple Dream Farm

100%
(117)
44mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 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.
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$25
 / night

Lauder Family Campground

100%
(1)
15mi from Simon B. Elliott State Park · 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.
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from 
$17
 / night

Other options near Simon B. Elliott State Park

The best camping in Simon B. Elliott State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

Nestled in the heart of Moshannon State Forest, Simon B. Elliott State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. This 318-acre woodland sanctuary invites you to immerse yourself in its scenic beauty, from swamp meadows to mixed hardwood forests. Whether you're hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the tranquility, the park's picturesque landscapes offer a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Simon B. Elliott State Park is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is either blooming or showcasing a vibrant array of colors. Summer offers warm days perfect for exploring, though it can be busy. Winters are quiet but can be quite cold, so prepare accordingly if you venture out during this season.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Be aware of park hours, typically from dawn until dusk, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
  • Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit for your adventure.
  • Stay informed about any trail closures or area restrictions that may be in effect during your visit.
  • Take advantage of the available picnic areas for a delightful outdoor meal amid nature.
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