Camping in Allegheny Reservoir: The 20 Best Campgrounds

United States
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New York
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Allegheny Reservoir

97% (613 reviews)

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12 top wheelchair-accessible campgrounds in Allegheny Reservoir

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Abandoned School

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Tidioute, PA

Located on the legendary Route 666, this campsite offers a one-of-a-kind experience to camp or park your RV beside an abandoned schoolhouse. Whether you're a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, this unique location blends thrills with tranquility. What’s Included: Easy-to-access Campsites: Whether you're arriving by car or any size RV, you'll find convenient parking and tent-pitching spots. Free Firewood: Available on-site, or to pick from forest. Firepits: Some spots have firepits. If unoccupied, feel free to use them; otherwise, you're welcome to create your own. Historic Backdrop: Capture the eerie ambiance of the abandoned schoolhouse in your photos. Nearby Attractions: Allegheny National Park & National Forest: Discover miles of trails and stunning natural beauty. Allegheny Outfitters (0.7 miles): Rent kayaks and canoes for a water adventure. George's Little Store (0.6 miles): Grab essentials or use the restroom. Minister Creek Trail: A scenic and challenging hike for nature enthusiasts. Pithole Ghost Town: Explore the remnants of this abandoned oil boomtown. Tionesta Dam: Enjoy breathtaking views and various recreational activities. Hearts Content Old Growth Forest: Walk among ancient trees and savor the tranquility of untouched nature. Washington Park: Perfect for picnicking, hiking, and outdoor relaxation. Minsi Bridge State Park: Discover the natural beauty and historic significance of this park. Tidioute Overlook: Take in panoramic views of the Allegheny River and surrounding landscapes. Important Information: Private Property Signs: Ignore these upon entry as they are meant to deter non-campers. Restrooms: Outhouses are not available; however, George’s Little Store nearby has facilities (24/7 Porta Potty). Hallers General Store has very nice bathrooms, but is a bit farther out (9 Minutes). If you prefer the simplicity of nature over the frills of a cabin or hotel, this place is for you. If you love exploring abandoned places, this campsite is for you. Whether you need a spot for your RV, a place to pitch a tent, or just somewhere to make unforgettable memories, the Abandoned Schoolhouse awaits. Gather your s'mores supplies, ghost stories, dog, friends, or family, and get ready for a unique adventure.

Clarion Heights

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents53 acres · Johnsonburg, PA

The Property has been previously used for its Large stone, coal, and clay mine. The property has been virtually untouched for 60+ years. Beautiful views of the surrounding hills.Small private spot on the top of the hill.. Lots of wildlife and close to many area attractions like 4 wheeler trails fishing, hunting, boating and more...

Clear Creek Cook Forest Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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). 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. UPDATE: we recently added a second site for "friends/family"(full hook-ups) at the other end of the parking pad for those wishing to camp with guests. Fire pit on location. Firewood can be found on the property, but always smart to bring some. The road in can be rough, just go slow. 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. POINTS of INTEREST: -Clear Creek State Park swimming area is minutes away, right down the road! -Only a few 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. -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. -10 miles to North Country Trailhead. -10 miles to Cook Forest State Park (8500 acres), known as a National Natural Landmark for some of America's finest virgin white pine and hemlock timber stands. Cook Forest State Park was rated one of America's top 50 state parks by National Geographic Traveler magazine and was chosen by the Pennsylvania DCNR and its Bureau of Parks as one of "25 Must-See Pennsylvania State Parks". -10 miles to Allegheny National Forest. State Game Lands nearby. -Farmer's Inn restaurant has that rustic country flair, great food and a "zoo" that all ages can appreciate. -A local meat market, drive-in movie theatre and RV sales/service a short drive on Route 36 toward Brookville. *Check Out the following websites for some great, detailed information on the surrounding area: **AIRBNB - check out my "Guidebook" there and booking fees are LESS $$!!!** DCNR PAWILDS VISITPAGO

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Campground Adventures

42 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents36 acres · NY

Pitch your tent, bring your RV camper or stay at one of our glamping sites at Campground Adventures and stay next to the Ischua Creek. Bring your kayak/canoe and fishing pole and enjoy the adventure. At your site you will have access to water hook-ups and 20 Amps service. Bath house is short walking distance away with hot showers and toilets. Each site will have a picnic table and a fire ring.

Chappel Hill Tree Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents140 acres · Grand Valley, PA

This 140-acre property is an old farmstead last farmed in the 1950's. It lies in the Allegheny Plateau region of NW Pennsylvania and is mostly hardwood forest today. It is surrounded by thousands of acres of private forestland and is very secluded. Our goal is to provide a private and secluded yet accessible camping experience where you will see more deer than people. AANR friendly. There is excellent Verizon and T-Mobile service. The skies are dark at night and the sounds of nature will surround you. Campsite 1 is near where the farmhouse and barn once stood. The site is shaded by large, old maples that once shaded the farmhouse. Old fields surround the farmstead, but the woods are a short walk away. It is the most popular campsite with an outhouse, fire ring and picnic table available. Campsite 2 is on the other side of the property. There is a fire ring but no picnic table. Both sites easily accommodate anything from tents to RV's. Each site has a separate, gated, gravel road access. These are the only 2 campsites on the property and they are far enough apart (1/4 mile) to avoid any contact should both sites be occupied. There is a 2-mile loop hiking trail on the property that traverses a variety of habitats which are home to many animals and birds. The trail is well maintained and mowed. The terrain is flat to gentle slopes. The 1/2-mile Narnia Loop trail weaves through a young spruce forest like a maze. It is so cool, literally, even on the hottest days. The Allegheny River is about 10 miles away, near Tidioute, PA, and has excellent paddling and fishing. Titusville, PA is about 15 miles away and is home to Oil Creek State Park which has great trout fishing, an excellent paved bike/hike trail, and Drake Well Museum site of the first oil well ever drilled. Finally, you will be on the doorstep to the Allegheny National Forest with all the outdoor recreation it has to offer. We hope you enjoy the peace and quiet of nature on our property as much as we have. If you are curious about more details of the history and management of the property, please ask your host, Dave Trimpey, and he will be glad to share his knowledge of the land. Learn more about this land: The property was a family farm from the late 1800's to the mid-1950's. Aerial photos of the 1940s and 1950s show much of the surrounding area was being farmed for crops and dairy cattle. Agricultural farming ended around 1956 and the farmer, Mr. Matkovich, planted acorns in many of the fields. An observant hiker may notice rows of red oak trees today in former fields which are now forests. In the 1970s the property was acquired by Lester Noll. He planted some of the remaining fields with spruce and fir for Christmas trees. The old farmhouse was still standing until it burned down in 1975. Mr. Noll sold the property to Dave and Rhonda Trimpey, your hosts, in 1992. We continued and expanded the Christmas tree business for 20 years and one point having nearly 6,000 Christmas trees growing in the fields around campsite 1. The Christmas tree part of the business ended in 2014 and management of the land now focuses on timber and wildlife. We have always used the property for personal recreation - primarily hunting, hiking and camping - and decided to open it up for others to enjoy by camping through Hipcamp in 2020.

Hideaway Valley

1 site · RV, Tent6 acres · Springville, NY

Learn more about this land:Over 1000 feet of frontage on Cattaragus creek. Great for fishing. Large gravel pad for cars or RV. Great spot to start or end Kayaking trip. Zoar valley tavern with food and live music is less than 1/4 mile away.

Triple Dream Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents99 acres · 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, our Open Pasture Campsite offers the peace, privacy and relaxation to campers looking to be out in the PA Wilds on our 99 acre family horse farm. Our Boondocking Site offers a inexpensive, safe and quiet alternative for those looking to stay 1 - 2 nights with a self-contained RV. OPEN PASTURE SITE: A row of trees, underbrush, small forest area and bridge over a creek separates your open pasture campsite from the main area of the farm, further providing a semi-private separation and an unbelievable clear angle of the southern night sky. Our camping site affords you the opportunity to play with your children, guests and pets without disturbing other campers or vice versa. The open pasture campsite is perfect for outdoor games, hiking and dog walks up the trails or just relaxing and decompressing from your hectic schedule to reconnect with family and friends. BOONDOCKING: This option affords you a inexpensive place to park your self-contained RV to relax on our farm. Please know that parking for your RV will be dependent on weather, time of the year, farm activities and safety. Before booking, please communicate your arrival dates and needs so we can accommodate them. OUR FARM: We are a recognized 501(c)(3) for the rescue, daily care of equines and related activities and community outreach. We are close to the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk with breathtaking views and beautiful year-round hiking, the Kinzua Dam for boating and other 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 and hidden gems of small town Americana such as Smethport, Coudersport, Wellsboro, Kane PA as well as Olean, NY are well worth the short drive. These towns boast various festivals all year long for your enjoyment as well. Scenic views can be had at Rim Rock, various trails in the Allegany National Forest and all along U.S. Route 6 - a popular drive! The Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is a short 2 hour drive for additional hiking and other outdoor activities along with wondrous views and activities. * Although you will not hear traffic, horns or sirens, please remember that nature can be loud during the night (crickets, frogs, sometimes coyote in the distance or even our sometimes resident Screech Owl) as well as our roosters, ducks or horses calling to each other.

Hanging Bog Big Bass Serenity Camp

12 sites · RVs, Tents14 acres · Caneadea, NY

This forested country property was purchased in 1923 by my great grandfather as a farm. My father was born here. All that was left when I arrived six years ago was the old stone house foundation -n it took me three days to find that! It is an honor to share a place this beautiful, creek, hills n trails ... Learn more about this land: Bordering Hanging Bog Wildlife Management Area and Crabb Hollow State Forest this charmed creek laced forest has been in my family for over 100 years. Recently turned camp with 10 well spaced camp sites with fire pits, deep well potable water, dish washing station and a couple of electrical outlets for charging, blender, hot pot.... We have what you need for comfort. We just finished a glamping cabin for those want maximum comfort and amenities all set up! ( Airbnb ) We are located right next to Wildlife Management and State Forest property and are on the snowmobile trail. Enjoy central (communal) and/ or individual camp fire pits (some rustic wood provided). Camp fire wood available near by ($5.00 bundle). RV's will want to use the somewhat level primary and secondary drive areas (sites 1, 2, 3 or 6). You can have privacy or enjoy socialization here. We are truly in the woods well spaced between sites and away from all traffic except very light country road travel. Spaces 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 are drive -in. Spaces 8, 9 and 10 are short walk-ins (50-250 feet) from parking. These locations, are across the creek FOOT bridge. You can not drive to them. Nice n private with rustic campfire wood, piled or to gather, near by. We have cut many beautiful walking trails on the forested hills out back and along the creeks. We sit 1/4 mile (through two meadows and up one tall and one small rise) from three ponds FULL of bass (fishing license required). I love to use the tiny beach at the first pond for a quick cool off swim. For a group swimming or tanning spot try Rushford Lake, where the beautiful little sandy Rushford Lake Public Beach is exactly 3 miles away. (Opened through Labor Day) Just down the road you can put your kayak or canoe in the Hanging Bog or go over to Genesee River access, 6 miles away to paddle or fish. Genesee Valley Greenway Trail is minutes away to go for a nice hike. See the hidden jem, Wiscoy Falls in 20 minutes or hike around Moss Lake. Approximately 25 miles in either direction will get you to a great day at Allegany or Letchworth State parks. You may want to take a nature path walks right here so you can hug trees and kiss rocks... or Play In The Creek ! All us kids and kids at heart love to play in the creek! Enjoy a fire in the communal pit or in your own and the firefly show which starts at dusk! All Cuba area attractions including Cuba Cheese, Garlic Festival, Block Barn, Palmer Opera House, Moonwinks and Cuba Lake are within 10 miles. The superb Amish community and offerings lace the entire area. I love all the doggies and have a big lab mix, Dino, who thinks all the people and all the other doggies were made to play with him. We understand everyone may not see it that way. Out of respect for everyone lets all keep our dogs in our space and clean-up after them. All are invited to cross the creek bridge for off leash romps and hikes. Children love it here! My Verizon phone and Hotspot work great here. There is a three week maximum stay limit at this time. Only sites 1, 2, 3 and 6 can accommodate larger RV's. Please come on down and enjoy this special spot. Rustic campfire wood provided for 1st night stay. Bring wood or purchase it from my next door neighbor. Do send any questions. Plan to arrive before 9pm for any site. Please take all trash away as there is no trash service in this area. Thank you!

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Ruby's Rocks

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Wilcox, PA

Learn more about this land: Our property is located near the tiny village of Glen Hazel, our unique area offers close proximity to many watersports and hiking opportunities. Visitors can watch bald eagles and osprey as you enjoy kayaking, fishing and nature at this primitive campsite. We have just one site. Our campsite is very private and includes a fire ring, a picnic table a trash can and a swing. Parking is available right at the site. It's just a 2 minute walk to the northernmost kayak launch on the East Branch of the Clarion River. Here you will find a public porta potty for use during the summer only. Several small jack dams will make your kayak experience a delight. We have a private 1 acre pond just a stones throw from the campsite that visitors can enjoy. Fishing is permitted in the pond, no license needed. Fly fishermen will enjoy the thrill of catching native and stocked trout in the most beautiful section on the East Branch of the Clarion River (PA fishing license and trout stamp required). Nearby is Bendigo State Park that offers free use of picnic areas and swimming in an immaculately kept pool. Just 1 1/2 miles away is the Dam Inn where you can stop for a beer or for a nice dinner on the deck. Adjacent to the campsite is State Gamelands #25. This enormous tract of public land is open to all for hiking, biking and fishing the pristine native trout streams, including Middle Fork, Crooked Creek and several others. Only a 3 mile drive will land you at the East Branch Lake, a seven mile long lake where you can put your boat in and fish, kayak or water ski to your hearts content.

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Creekside Camp

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Angola, NY

Parking for RV or tent camping. 1 mile from Bennett Beach: https://www3.erie.gov/parks/bennett-beach 1.5 Mile from Wendt Beach: https://www3.erie.gov/parks/wendt-park 2 miles from Sturgeon Point Marina: https://townofevansny.gov/departments/parks-department/sturgeon-point-marina/ Directly across the street from the entrance to the Ayer-Stevenson Audubon Nature Preserve Abundant firewood available for free just by going into the woods and carrying it out.

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Big Oak Hill

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · NY

This is a newly created campsite that has picturesque view of surrounding farmland and of Peek-n-Peak. Located conveniently off of Rt426 with a slight drive along a field to reach the destination. Private and out of the way. Plenty of wildlife (family of fox and usually mamma deer and her babies, can normally be seen doing what animals do. Close to Peek-n-Peak and Findley Lake and its many amenities. Has fantastic cell reception so remote working is an absolute possibility if longer stays are wanted. This is a little campsite on top of a hillside besides, you guessed it, a big oak. This is on a working hay farm, so depending on when you arrive you might be able to see hay being harvested. Again, this a new campsite so improvements will be made based on demand. To enter the property, you will use a field entrance right off Harrington Hill Road (coming from the west it will be on your left-hand side). We have the way marked for you with posts/markers so hopefully it will take you right there. Please be aware this is located on top of a hill (with a big oak, hence its name :)) and you will be going through an active hay field to reach it.

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PB Farm Rustic camping

2 sites · Tents50 acres · Machias, NY

Learn more about this land:Our campsite is primitive, however at the farm store we have a hot shower, self-composting toilet, microwave and cooler. You will be right in the heart of our small farm, with a gorgeous view and our cows as your neighbors. During the warmer summer days our pool is open to guests. We also have a playground area and lots of farm animals to greet you. Our property houses many forest hiking trails. We also allow dogs.

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Camping in Allegheny Reservoir guide

Overview

Spanning more than 12,000 acres across New York and Pennsylvania, the reservoir, along with the surrounding Allegany State Park, Allegany Reservation, and the Allegheny National Forest, form one of the largest outdoor recreation complexes in the northeast. It’s a prime destination for water recreation, including swimming, paddling, boating, fishing, and flat water windsurfing, while hundreds of miles of hiking, biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails surround the area. Numerous camping options let you camp waterside, in the backcountry, or in the woods, and span primitive tent-only sites, RV sites with hookup, rustic cabins, and cozy cottages.

Where to go

Allegany State Park

On the north end of the reservoir, Allegany State Park offers 65,000 acres of rare, old growth forest, two lakes, and rugged terrain with plenty of trails for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. Two developed areas—Quaker and Red House—offer more than 300 campsites, 350 cabins (142 winterized), and eight cottages. Amenities include swim beaches, playgrounds, playing fields, boat and bike rentals, and boat launches. Just west of the state park, in the Enchanted Mountains of New York, Onoville Marina Park offers nearly 100 seasonal and transient camping sites, some right along the shores of the reservoir.

Allegany Indian Reservation

The northwestern part of the reservoir is surrounded by the Allegany Reservation of the Seneca Nation of Indians, which also includes several towns, the city of Salamanca, and the Seneca-Allegany Casino. Campers can stay at the Highbanks Campground, across the reservoir from Allegany State Park’s Quaker Area. Options include tent sites and RV sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits, along with spacious cabins and chalets, and amenities that include a boat launch, pool, picnic areas, and playground.

Allegheny National Forest

A mecca for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the forest features 10 developed campgrounds. Willow Bay, Dewdrop, Kiasutha, and Red Bridge are the closest to the reservoir, and together offer more than 400 tent sites, RV sites, and rustic cabins. Most sites include picnic tables and fire rings, while many RV sites offer hookups and a dump station. For the best views, book a waterfront site or stay at a boat-in campground, such as Hopewell, Pine Grove, or Hooks Brook. With more than 500,000 acres, there’s plenty of space for dispersed camping.