11 Best PA State Parks For RV Camping
If you‘re looking to enjoy some of Pennsylvania‘s breathtaking outdoors, check out the best PA State Parks for RV camping! From lush forests and tranquil lakes to captivating meadows and peaceful rivers, these state parks offer some of the most stunning sights in the state. With ample amenities, including picnic areas, sandy beaches, boating facilities, swimming pools, rustic campsites and more, each park is sure to make for a wonderful experience.
Pennsylvania is known as the “Keystone State” due to its central location on the East Coast and the importance of the state during the American Revolution. From the Appalachian Mountains to the bustling cities of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, the Keystone State has something for everyone. And what better way to experience the beauty of the Keystone State than by camping in one of its many state parks?
History
Pennsylvania state parks have a long and rich history. The first state park was created in 1893, and by the 1920s, the state had established more than a dozen parks. In the 1930s and 1940s, the Civilian Conservation Corps helped to build and expand the state park system, and by the 1950s, Pennsylvania’s state parks had grown to encompass more than 200,000 acres of land. Today, Pennsylvania boasts more than 120 state parks that stretch across the state, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.
Pennsylvania’s state parks offer a variety of activities and amenities for visitors. Whether you’re looking to camp in an RV or stay in a modern cabin, there are plenty of options to choose from. Most parks have electric hookups, game rooms, camp stores, and picnic tables, so you can enjoy the comfort of home while still getting the full camping experience. With more than 8,000 RV sites, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure.
Find Your Perfect RV Campground in PA State Parks
One of the best ways to explore the Keystone State is by camping in one of its many state parks. With more than 8,000 RV sites, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re looking for a great place to stay in the woods or a more modern RV campground with all the amenities, there’s something for everyone.
When it comes to RV camping, Pennsylvania’s state parks are some of the best in the United States. The state is home to a variety of campgrounds, from primitive sites in the woods to more modern campgrounds with full hookups and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a great spot to relax and enjoy nature or a full-service RV park with all the bells and whistles, you’ll find just the right spot in Pennsylvania.
Best PA State Parks for RV Camping
Pennsylvania has some of the best state parks in the United States, and each park offers something unique. Here’s a look at some of the best spots for RV camping in the Keystone State:
Ricketts Glen State Park
Ricketts Glen State Park is located in the Endless Mountains (Pocono Mountains) region of northern Pennsylvania. It is one of the state’s premier parks for RV camping and offers over 13,000 acres of public land with 21 named waterfalls. The park also has a 54-acre lake for boating and fishing as well as miles of trails for biking and hiking. The scenic views make it one of the best spots for RV camping in PA.
Campsites include electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings and grills, and there are bathrooms with flush toilets and showers available year round. There are several designated areas for campfires or to pitch tents or RV’s depending on what type of outdoor experience you would like to have. But no matter which option you choose – fishing, hiking, wildlife watching or simply soaking up nature be sure to spend some time at Ricketts Glen State Park if you’re looking for an epic RV camping trip in Pennsylvania!
Presque Isle State Park
Presque Isle State Park is located on the shores of Lake Erie and is the most popular state park in Pennsylvania. It features a marina, swimming beaches, nearly 20 miles of hiking trails, several places to fish and two boat launches.
There are also plenty of areas to set up your RV with more than 225 sites with electric hookups including full hookups, modern cabins, and primitive tent sites. Amenities include picnic tables, a camp store, and a volleyball court, with varying lengths of stay options. Some sites provide partial lake views and many offer access to flush toilets while some have picnic tables and fire rings. A dump station is available for no extra charge and there are even a camp store and restaurant on-site. This beautiful park is an excellent choice for RV camping in Pennsylvania.
Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle State Park is one of the best Pennsylvania state parks for RV camping. Located in southwestern Pennsylvania, it’s conveniently close to Pittsburgh and its surrounding suburbs. As an added bonus, the park is also near two interstate highways so getting there is relatively easy. The park itself boasts some amazing views of the Youghiogheny River gorge and some of the most challenging rapids for experienced kayakers.
There are plenty of hiking trails, fishing spots, mountain biking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Those looking to spend a night at the park on their RV can choose from numerous campsites with convenient hookups for their vehicle and all the amenities necessary for an enjoyable stay. Whether you’re looking to spend a day relaxing in nature or a weekend embracing adventure, Ohiopyle State Park has something for everyone to enjoy!
Cook Forest State Park
Cook Forest State Park is one of the best state parks in Pennsylvania for RV camping. Spanning 8,500 acres, this park is full of towering white pines and hemlocks, making it a serene paradise for outdoor lovers. The park offers 65 miles of hiking trails, making it ideal for hikers looking to explore the woods near Pittsburgh. There are also 12 miles of biking trails and 10 scenic byways for drivers to admire the scenery.
For campers with RVs, the park provides 170 campsites with electric hookups, as well as five cozy cabins for rent. In addition to RV camping and recreational amenities, there’s plenty of wildlife at Cook Forest State Park—bird-watchers have been known to spot more than 120 different species! Reel in some fresh catch from two stocked trout streams or enjoy a swim in Clear Creek Lake while you’re here. If you’re looking for an escape from city life right on your doorstep, look no further than Cook Forest State Park!
Colton Point State Park
Colton Point State Park is one of the best Pennsylvania state parks for RV camping. Located along the stunningly beautiful Pine Creek Gorge in northcentral Pennsylvania, this 700-acre park is an ideal spot to experience the best that nature has to offer. The area offers plenty of hiking and biking trails as well as breathtaking views from multiple overlooks. There are some challenging mountain bike trails here as well, providing a great option for those looking for adventure.
RV campers can make use of the electric hookups available at two separate sites or take advantage of nearby Lewis Campground. Boating, fishing and swimming are all activities enjoyed in this park and campers can even rent boats at Trout Run Marina nearby.
Camping Near National Parks & Natural Landmarks
If you’re looking for a great spot to camp near a national park or natural landmark, Pennsylvania has plenty of options. The state is home to several national parks and natural landmarks, including the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Allegheny National Forest, and Pine Creek Gorge. Here are a few of the best RV campgrounds near these popular destinations:
Sara’s Campground
Sara’s Campground is one of the best Pennsylvania State Parks for RV camping. Located near national parks and natural landmarks, the park offers a wide range of activities for campers to enjoy. From hiking and biking trails to canoeing along scenic rivers, there is something for everyone at Sara’s Campground. A wide variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians can be seen throughout the park. Guests can also join guided educational programs that teach about the various flora and fauna in the area.
For relaxation, visitors can sit back by their campfire or take a dip in one of the two swimming pools available at Sara’s Campground. There are plans to build an amazing new adventure center in the near future which will provide RV campers with even more exciting amenities. In addition, picnic areas and boat rentals can be found throughout the park as well. Whether looking to spend time in nature or explore exciting attractions nearby, Sara’s Campground is an excellent choice for any RV camping adventure in Pennsylvania!
Pine Creek Campground
Pine Creek Campground is one of the best Pennsylvania state parks for RV camping. It’s located in Pennsylvania’s scenic Susquehanna River Valley, and it has a variety of amenities that make it an attractive destination for RVers. The campground offers full hookups, as well as plenty of shaded sites. The campsites come with free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and dump stations. Plus, there are bike trails nearby, so you can explore the surrounding area on two wheels.
If you’re looking to get out on the water, the campground is close to popular boating spots like Lake Wallenpaupack and the Delaware River. Get ready to take a break from everyday life and immerse yourself in nature at Pine Creek Campground!
Popular Amenities & Activities at Pennsylvania State Park Campgrounds
When it comes to RV camping, Pennsylvania’s state parks are some of the best in the United States. Most campgrounds have a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are a few of the most popular amenities and activities offered at Pennsylvania state park campgrounds:
- Picnic tables
- Electric hookups
- Game rooms
- Camp stores
- Volleyball courts
- Basketball courts
- Nature trails
Wildlife Watching: Spotting Bald Eagles and More
Pennsylvania is an excellent destination for camping in your RV, and you can find some of the best places to camp in its state parks. Of all Pennsylvania’s state parks, these eleven are especially known for their outstanding opportunities for RV camping. You’ll be able to spot a variety of wildlife as you explore the state parks of Pennsylvania by RV. The most sought-after creature is bald eagles, one of which can often be seen nesting near rivers and lakes, particularly in the winter months.
During colder months, mammals like river otters and beavers might also be spotted along with other species of birds, reptiles and amphibians. In the warmer seasons, keep your eyes open for white-tailed deer; black bear; foxes; turkeys; ruffed grouse; red-winged blackbirds; painted turtles and many other species. With enough patience, you may also get lucky enough to see a bobcat or two. Whatever time of year you visit these Pennsylvania state parks, you’re sure to encounter plenty of interesting wildlife!
Exploring the Great Outdoors: Top Hiking Trails at Pennsylvania State Parks
Pennsylvania’s state parks offer a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore. From easy strolls through the woods to more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of the top hiking trails at Pennsylvania state parks:
Allegheny National Forest
The North Country Trail is a popular trail in the Allegheny National Forest. This scenic trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful parts of the forest, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside.The Allegheny National Forest is one of Pennsylvania’s best state parks for RV camping. Spanning over 500,000 acres, the forest boasts hundreds of miles of trails perfect for hikers, anglers, and explorers alike.
There are two designated campgrounds in the park—Marienville and Kinzua Point— both providing plenty of opportunities to explore the hardwood forests, meadows, and mountain peaks that make up this picturesque landscape. Lush with vegetation and wildlife, visitors can spot a range of native species including white-tailed deer, beaver, black bear, elk, ruffed grouse and more.
The area is ideal for mountain biking and fishing in streams full of trout. It provides diverse ecosystems that support a wide variety of plants which are at their peak during different seasons so there’s always something new to explore no matter when you visit. Numerous snow-covered trails make it a great destination for snowshoeing or cross country skiing in the winter months. T
There are also campsites on islands in Wanahoo Lake where you can spend days canoeing or kayaking on peaceful waters. You can even take part in interpretive programs offered at some of the campgrounds or explore historical sites dotting the landscape like the Sugar Maple Trail. With so much to do and explore, the Allegheny National Forest is a must-visit Pennsylvania state park for RV camping.
Ohiopyle State Park
The Youghiogheny River Trail is a great spot for hikers of all skill levels. The trail takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the park, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and stunning views of the river. Ohiopyle State Park is located in western Pennsylvania and is one of the best state parks for RV camping. Located near many beautiful hiking trails, Ohiopyle offers RV campers an excellent opportunity to explore nature and observe some of the region’s most stunning natural beauty.
Whether it’s a scenic hike or a more exciting backpacking trip, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure at Ohiopyle State Park. For those looking for a challenge, take on the three major trails that traverse through the park; or if you want something less taxing, simply leisurely stroll the riverside trail along Youghiogheny River Gorge. Ohiopyle also has two main waterfalls that can be visited; go swimming by Cucumber Falls, enjoy trout fishing at Jonathan Run, or even kayaking and white-water rafting on Youghiogheny River — making it perfect for any type of camping experience.
Cook Forest State Park
The Allegheny Trail is a popular trail in the Cook Forest State Park. This scenic trail takes hikers through some of the most beautiful parts of the park, with stunning views of the old-growth forest and surrounding countryside. Located in the beautiful northern portion of Pennsylvania, Cook Forest State Park offers some of the best camping experiences in the area. The Forest was known for its history and beauty, giving visitors an opportunity to explore nature’s boundless wonders.
There are several trails that run through the park for avid hikers who want to enhance their outdoor adventure. Some of the trails include, the Hemlock Trail where you can take a leisurely stroll alongside a river, and Seneca Point Trail where you can marvel at breathtaking views from scenic overlooks along the way. There are also plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities such as catching a glimpse of bald eagles soaring overhead or white-tailed deer grazing peacefully in the forest.
For those looking for a more challenging hike, there is the 2-mile Overlook Loop trail which leads to spectacular viewpoints like Big Lantern and Indian Springs. In addition to taking a hike, visitors can enjoy fishing, canoeing or kayaking on nearby Clarion River or relaxing by one of several pristine swimming areas throughout the park. With so many attractions and activities to enjoy, RVers will surely have an amazing time exploring all that Cook Forest has to offer!
Bottom line
Pennsylvania is a great destination for RV camping. With more than 8,000 RV sites and a variety of amenities, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure. From the Appalachian Mountains to the bustling cities of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, the Keystone State has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a great spot to relax and enjoy nature or a full-service RV park with all the bells and whistles, you’ll find just the right spot in Pennsylvania. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the Keystone State!
