Forest camping near Erie

Lake Erie’s namesake city is all about its surroundings.

95% (1167 reviews)
95% (1167 reviews)

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12 top forest campgrounds near Erie

99%
(157)

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.
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$15
 / night
93%
(23)

Steadfast Roots Homestead

7 sites · Tents20 acres · Ashtabula, OH
We are a working homestead trying our best to do right by mother earth. We have 20 acres that offer nice trails to enjoy the peace of nature, duck/goose pond, kayaks, paddleboat, big pond with islands, moss beach, fire pits, picnic tables, meeting room/A frame available if needed. Camping in the forest surrounded by ancient woodlands. So close to I90 our property touches it, don't worry there is a fence at that outer tree line you can see the highway in some areas or edges and car show days are great times to look. You will hear all the noises Ashtabula county has to offer. Including but not limited to the highway, Benetka Rd Covered Bridge is part of the driving trail, there is a cool off road park down that way has events as well vroomvroom, AND we have roosters, chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, rabbits, who knows what that noise was? If you are looking to only hear nature this is not the homestead to choose. Not far from all of the amazing Ashtabula attractions. Super close to harbor and cute small towns, wineries, fun local shops, and Lake Erie beaches. Short drive to Erie PA not far from NY boarder. Lots of online delivery to us options. Outhouse available but no electricity and no bath house yet. Ask about sapling adoption!!! Please ask us anything and everything tell us if you know something we love to learn and we are still learning about this wonderful piece of earth we are trying to survive on.
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$40
 / night
100%
(16)

River Island Cabin & Campsites

8 sites · Lodging, Tents46 acres · PA
Located on Fuellhart Island, Tidioute, Pennsylvania Allegheny River, Allegheny National Forest, PA Wilds Perfect for kayaking, camping, fishing, tubing - all types of river trips! Go Primitive and book secluded campsites (there is a Treehouse and Canvas Bell Tent options!) Rent the cabin and island privately for your group 46 acres of Private Island on the scenic Allegheny River. PA Wilds, Gameland Access, Allegheny National Forest. We provide: HAMMOCK AND TENT CAMPSITES (view listings) CABIN AND ISLAND RENTALS (Call it a glorified cabin in the woods!) - fully equipped! - non-motorized boat rentals (Angler single kayaks and canoe) - Fishing pole and gear rentals - Tent/Hammocks - Cold Weather Sleeping Bags This is a secluded private island on the Allegheny River. It has been a family property for years and many people have created great memories here. It is great for solo campers wanting a peaceful space, kayakers on river trips, family groups (magic for kids and dogs!) *Tent camping, outdoor shower, fishing, kayaking, groomed trail paths from end to end, fully equipped kitchen, outdoor cooking, firepits, outdoor and indoor seating. Dog friendly! Supreme sunsets and starry nights! Everyone always ends up staying another day if they can get away with it! Arrive by car to our parking area where we will boat you and your gear over to the island campsite. There will be 1 round trip in the motorized john boat per group. Guests are permitted to use the aluminum canoe with lifejackets only to ferry items. PADDLE IN! KAYAKERS/CANOES/MULTI-DAY RIVER TRIP PADDLERS! Arrive by kayak or canoe off the river while you are on a paddle trip. Singles, small groups and large groups. Campsites are PERFECT for Scouts trips, team building trips with kayak rental options. Cabin rentals are great for couples, families, friends, reunions, fishing trips, large groups trips and more! Wildlife photographers must see location!
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$55
 / night
100%
(13)

Elk Valley Creekside

1 site · Lodging70 acres · Girard, PA
This campsite is a wildlife paradise and a fisherman's dream come true on the banks of Elk Creek. We open April 1 each season so campers can take advantage of three months of incredible steelhead, smallmouth bass, lake suckers and stocked browns. There are seasonal fishing ponds on the property as well. Campers will marvel at the incredible nature surrounding this secluded campsite. Watch bald eagles from your tent deck, and keep your eyes open for deer, turkey, seasonal steelhead and beautiful monarch butterflies. Elk Valley Creekside is a perfect getaway for campers interested in wildlife photography - the photo opportunities are endless. This campsite is only 20 minutes from Presque Isle State Park, and 30 minutes from Erie, PA. There are solar lights around the campsite to help you see at night, and plenty of firewood is provided. The Space: Creekside Campsite with Incredible Fishing and Wildlife Guest Access: This was a former Tentrr Signature 5 star campsite. An outdoor toilet (job johnny) and fire wood are provided
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$170
 / night
100%
(19)

Cabin Off-Grid Camping

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Ashtabula, OH
Enjoy the lovely setting of this quiet spot in nature conveniently located near Geneva on the Lake and surrounding wineries. Propane heater and gas generator for electricity add more comfortable options for your stay. Outside port-a-potty is private and not shared with anyone else. Please bring your own bedding for use on the futon. Limited water is supplied for your use. There is not pre-cut firewood on the premises, but you are welcome to cut down logs. If you plan on having a fire, there is also firewood for sale within 5 minutes at Geneva Lakeside Storage. Any fuel that is onsite when you arrive, you are welcome to use. Plan to acquire fuel if you anticipate using the electric and heating elements. We have fuel canisters onsite if you'd like to use them to transport fuel from the nearest stores back to the site. We do not have a cleaning crew out between each visit, so please be courteous and leave the site the way you left it.
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$40.67
 / night
100%
(15)

Cozy country farm house

4 sites · Lodging47 acres · Fredonia, NY
This is a single occupancy listing. You and your party will be the only guests. We do have a separate living space in our barn so only parking is shared. Originally 100 acres was purchased by the Deering family back in the 1800's from the Holland Land company. Then sometime near 1900 the farm was split between two brothers, each receiving 50 acres. The home was originally built in 1903 and is currently updated and remodeled for today’s codes and standards. 47 acres of accessible woods and pasture remain for hiking and at the top of the property a breath-taking view across Lake Erie into Ontario Canada. Learn more about this land: Why book a site when you can have a house? This cozy country farm house, situated on 47 acres that has a breath-taking view overlooking Lake Erie into Canada, worth the hike up the hill. 1st floor living, remodeled kitchen and bath with all new appliances, bedroom has a new queen bed. 4 season home has gas appliances and heat. Great location for winter sports just 20 minutes from the newly renovated and reopened Cockaigne ski resort, and it’s just miles from access to marked snow mobile trails. Mud room makes it easy to shed and store boots and jackets. Spring time activities includes “March maple syrup madness” and exploring the Amish communities of Chautauqua county. For summertime it is just minutes to the Lake Erie shoreline and Dunkirk harbor for aquatic activities. In the Fall you cannot beat the canopy of colors. There are 3 wonderful wineries within 5 miles of your door, bring a bottle home and enjoy it by an outdoor campfire, or just sit on the patio and look up at the night sky. In the morning you can make your coffee by the cup, or carafe then sit on the patio and watch the sunrise. Major department and food stores are just minutes away. Come stay for a day and you will end up wanting to stay for more, a minimum 3 day 2 night stay is recommended.
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$49.50
 / night
96%
(14)

Hardscrabble Nature Preserve

1 site · RV40 acres · Westfield, NY
A Nature Lovers Paradise. 40 acres of private land on a rural road with a developed driveway 30 amp service and Amish rain shelter. Breathtaking views of lake Erie sunsets and Canadian windmills. A gentle breeze and stargazing welcomes you. Nearby activities include horseback, riding, wine tasting, breweries, Chautauqua Institution, Amish markets, rural bike riding, hiking along the Chautauqua gorge. Limited man-made light perfect for stargazing. Serenade by farm animals nearby with plenty of deer, crickets and silence except for the Fourth of July. Bear, Deer, coyote, song birds, bunnies abundant. NO AGGRESSIVE DOG BREADS that will chase or hunt the wildlife. Rustic picnic table on site. NO FIREWORKS. Firewood can be picked up in town or forged on the property. No cutting down or damaging trees. This is a quiet area not for any loud noises or partying. One night fee charge if garbage is left behind (that includes cigarette butts). Port-a-potty for extended stays (30 days) extra charge for the cost of the port-a-potty (NEED TO CALL AHEAD TO RESERVE AND ALLOW FOR DELIVERY). Sorry about all the rules but, you never know. Back acres provide plenty of hiking and a secret beaver dam. The driveway newly installed 2022 and directly off the road. Will need levelers because there is a mild incline. LEAVE NO TRACE. GARBAGE IN/GARBAGE OUT. Send me a picture of your set up!!! Enjoy
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$65
 / night
100%
(118)

Flannel Dog Farm

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Ashtabula, OH
Flannel Dog Farm is a seven acre homestead on the site of an original 1860's farm. Here you'll find sheep, chickens, ducks, and dogs as well as a variety of wild animals and birds, native pollinators, and fields of wildflowers. Camping and lodging options include a large open camp area, a tiny house, and a covered wagon. Chris Zielski and Alan Block are the wife and husband team that steward the farm. Chris is a metal artist and has a beautiful onsite studio for her business, Copper Leaf Studios. Alan is a sourdough baker, gardener, and fermenter. In addition to Hipcampers, Flannel Dog Farm hosts art shows, classes, and retreats. Much like our farm's name, our place is warm, welcoming, rustic, and a little bit gritty. We believe in inclusion, community, and sustainable living. We love telling and hearing good stories. And, we love to share our part of the world with others. Message us if you have any questions!
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$50
 / night
Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping near Erie guide

Overview

Looking to camp near Erie, Pennsylvania and immerse yourself in a beautiful forest setting? Look no further than Hipcamp, with over 1131 options available to choose from. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, you'll find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Some of the top campsites near Erie include Camping at Heritage Farms (976 reviews), The Heron Campground (348 reviews), and River Hills Above the Allegheny (177 reviews). With amenities like toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly options, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, if you're looking to get active, popular activities include off-roading (OHV), paddling, and wind sports. The average price per night is $45, with options as low as $10, so you can camp within your budget. Start planning your forest adventure today!

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