Camping in Presque Isle, Pennsylvania: Best Presque Isle Campgrounds 2025

United States
—
Pennsylvania
—
Presque Isle

95% (1398 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Presque Isle

Available this weekend

Star Hosts in Presque Isle

100%

(23)

May Farms

4 sites · Lodging, Tents97 acres · Erie, PA

Secluded area of field and trees on old family farm. Property is 97 acres. Near Presque Isle state Park and Lake Erie beaches. Hike Wintergreen Gorge near by too. The surrounding area and city offers amusement park, bicentennial tower, shopping and indoor water park. We are only about 10 minutes off I90.

99%

(115)

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY

When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.

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.

French Creek Flood Plain Overlook

1 site · Tent36 acres · Union City, PA

This tent site sits in the woods on a hill just above the corner of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) and a small tributary creek. It faces northwest over the valley providing amazing sunset views. This location is on the high-side of the Union City Dam which is a dry bed, flood control dam. Which means during snow melt, or rainy streaks, the dam will fill up and flood the entire valley. However during dry spells, French Creek will appear as any other creek. At peak flooding, it will make its way all the way up the tributary valley, making a beautiful lake front campsite. Unfortunately, this only occurs a few weeks out of the year (typically early spring and occasionally during wet falls) and is fairly unpredictable (you can compare the high-water vs low-water views from the photos). Most of the summer you can still enjoy the view over both the tributary valley and French Creek valley. (DISCLAIMER: Once or twice a year during the wettest streaks, the water rises high enough to flood the driveway, making it impossible to drive up directly to the campsite. If this happens, you will be notified before so you can choose either to be refunded and not stay or you can park 100 yards up the road and hike into the campsite to enjoy the unique and rare lakefront views. Again, these are natural events that are infrequent and unpredictable, but also provide a truly spectacular setting.) Located at the end of a dead end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagles nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, as well as frequently crossing both valleys. All types of waterfowl flock the lake when it's flooded. I've personally seen up to 1000 geese at one time. Beyond relaxing and wildlife watching, there are plenty of other activities to explore in the area. Access to many nature walking trails. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. Kayaks/canoes can be used to float the creek when dry or paddle up and down the reservoir lake when flooded. Centrally located between the 2 small towns of Union City and Waterford with gas stations, grocery stores, great local dinning options, and more. About a half an hour drive to Erie and Presque Isle State Park. Come enjoy this extremely unique stretch of French Creek and Pennsylvania woods! DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit.

Conneauttee Valley Getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Edinboro, PA

Enjoy a private country setting near Edinboro and Cambridge Springs. Just down the road from Mount Pleasant of Edinboro. Situated on approximately 3 acres with a pond for relaxing or fishing. Plenty of hiking available nearby. Plenty of food options nearby with Riverside Brewing within a few miles.

12 top campgrounds in Presque Isle

98%

(24)

The Highlander

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Pittsfield, PA

Rustic cabin with some creature comforts. Electric cooking range, microwave, coffee pot, small refrigerator TV and blu-ray player. Outdoor propane grill, charcoal grill and fire ring. There is no running water in the camp. There is an outhouse for toilet facilities. We provide filtered water for drinking and cooking. We also provide fire wood.

French Creek Flood Plain Overlook

1 site · Tent36 acres · Union City, PA

This tent site sits in the woods on a hill just above the corner of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) and a small tributary creek. It faces northwest over the valley providing amazing sunset views. This location is on the high-side of the Union City Dam which is a dry bed, flood control dam. Which means during snow melt, or rainy streaks, the dam will fill up and flood the entire valley. However during dry spells, French Creek will appear as any other creek. At peak flooding, it will make its way all the way up the tributary valley, making a beautiful lake front campsite. Unfortunately, this only occurs a few weeks out of the year (typically early spring and occasionally during wet falls) and is fairly unpredictable (you can compare the high-water vs low-water views from the photos). Most of the summer you can still enjoy the view over both the tributary valley and French Creek valley. (DISCLAIMER: Once or twice a year during the wettest streaks, the water rises high enough to flood the driveway, making it impossible to drive up directly to the campsite. If this happens, you will be notified before so you can choose either to be refunded and not stay or you can park 100 yards up the road and hike into the campsite to enjoy the unique and rare lakefront views. Again, these are natural events that are infrequent and unpredictable, but also provide a truly spectacular setting.) Located at the end of a dead end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagles nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, as well as frequently crossing both valleys. All types of waterfowl flock the lake when it's flooded. I've personally seen up to 1000 geese at one time. Beyond relaxing and wildlife watching, there are plenty of other activities to explore in the area. Access to many nature walking trails. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. Kayaks/canoes can be used to float the creek when dry or paddle up and down the reservoir lake when flooded. Centrally located between the 2 small towns of Union City and Waterford with gas stations, grocery stores, great local dinning options, and more. About a half an hour drive to Erie and Presque Isle State Park. Come enjoy this extremely unique stretch of French Creek and Pennsylvania woods! DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit.

100%

(1)

Charming Farmhouse On Working Farm

1 site · Lodging284 acres · Pittsfield, PA

A 4bd 1bath farmhouse on a working farm backing onto hundreds of acres of Pa State Game Lands property. Conveniently located near the best hunting, fishing, hiking and biking trails Pennsylvania has to offer. This 100 yr old farmhouse is on a 284 acre working farm. Approximately 15 mins from Tidioute and the Allegheny River and about 7 mins from the Brokenstraw creek.

Conneauttee Valley Getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Edinboro, PA

Enjoy a private country setting near Edinboro and Cambridge Springs. Just down the road from Mount Pleasant of Edinboro. Situated on approximately 3 acres with a pond for relaxing or fishing. Plenty of hiking available nearby. Plenty of food options nearby with Riverside Brewing within a few miles.

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY

When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.

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.

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.

Booked 2 times

CHERRY VALLEY CHILL

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Andover, OH

In the heart of farm country, just down the road from the Amish country store and minutes from pymatuning park and reservoir with great fishing, pontoon rental and a nice beach, Local wineries and several public golf courses , 30 minutes south of historic Ashtabula harbor and walnut beach on beautiful lake erie.

May Farms

4 sites · Lodging, Tents97 acres · Erie, PA

Secluded area of field and trees on old family farm. Property is 97 acres. Near Presque Isle state Park and Lake Erie beaches. Hike Wintergreen Gorge near by too. The surrounding area and city offers amusement park, bicentennial tower, shopping and indoor water park. We are only about 10 minutes off I90.

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.

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!

Fish Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Mc Kean, PA

32 acres located 8 miles from Walnut Creek Access and Lake Erie . 2 miles from world famous Elk Creek and steelhead trout fishing . 10 miles from beaches . 3 acres mowed . Excellent Steelhead fishing from the creek! Has electric only . No other utilities . Must have own water and septic holding tanks . Dump station is nearby off of property . Appx 10 miles from Presque Isle Beaches . 15 miles from downtown Erie Pa. Very quiet . Paved road . Lots of deer and wildlife .

Under $50

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.

French Creek Flood Plain Overlook

1 site · Tent36 acres · Union City, PA

This tent site sits in the woods on a hill just above the corner of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) and a small tributary creek. It faces northwest over the valley providing amazing sunset views. This location is on the high-side of the Union City Dam which is a dry bed, flood control dam. Which means during snow melt, or rainy streaks, the dam will fill up and flood the entire valley. However during dry spells, French Creek will appear as any other creek. At peak flooding, it will make its way all the way up the tributary valley, making a beautiful lake front campsite. Unfortunately, this only occurs a few weeks out of the year (typically early spring and occasionally during wet falls) and is fairly unpredictable (you can compare the high-water vs low-water views from the photos). Most of the summer you can still enjoy the view over both the tributary valley and French Creek valley. (DISCLAIMER: Once or twice a year during the wettest streaks, the water rises high enough to flood the driveway, making it impossible to drive up directly to the campsite. If this happens, you will be notified before so you can choose either to be refunded and not stay or you can park 100 yards up the road and hike into the campsite to enjoy the unique and rare lakefront views. Again, these are natural events that are infrequent and unpredictable, but also provide a truly spectacular setting.) Located at the end of a dead end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagles nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, as well as frequently crossing both valleys. All types of waterfowl flock the lake when it's flooded. I've personally seen up to 1000 geese at one time. Beyond relaxing and wildlife watching, there are plenty of other activities to explore in the area. Access to many nature walking trails. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. Kayaks/canoes can be used to float the creek when dry or paddle up and down the reservoir lake when flooded. Centrally located between the 2 small towns of Union City and Waterford with gas stations, grocery stores, great local dinning options, and more. About a half an hour drive to Erie and Presque Isle State Park. Come enjoy this extremely unique stretch of French Creek and Pennsylvania woods! DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit.

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.

May Farms

4 sites · Lodging, Tents97 acres · Erie, PA

Secluded area of field and trees on old family farm. Property is 97 acres. Near Presque Isle state Park and Lake Erie beaches. Hike Wintergreen Gorge near by too. The surrounding area and city offers amusement park, bicentennial tower, shopping and indoor water park. We are only about 10 minutes off I90.

Conneauttee Valley Getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Edinboro, PA

Enjoy a private country setting near Edinboro and Cambridge Springs. Just down the road from Mount Pleasant of Edinboro. Situated on approximately 3 acres with a pond for relaxing or fishing. Plenty of hiking available nearby. Plenty of food options nearby with Riverside Brewing within a few miles.

Dog-friendly getaways

99%

(115)

Steelhead Run Recreation Area

2 sites · RVs7 acres · Westfield, NY

When arriving at Steelhead Run you are greeted by the sounds of Lake Erie in a tranquil wooded setting. Only steps away from beautiful Lake Erie and Chautauqua Creek. Our location offers an array of experiences from walks along the beach, wildlife viewing, relaxing to the view of incredible sunsets and so much more. Cocktails, food, and public boat launching can be found just half a mile up the road. A quick drive inland, the historic town of Westfield provides weekend farmers markets, wineries, eateries, and antique shopping.

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.

Charming Farmhouse On Working Farm

1 site · Lodging284 acres · Pittsfield, PA

A 4bd 1bath farmhouse on a working farm backing onto hundreds of acres of Pa State Game Lands property. Conveniently located near the best hunting, fishing, hiking and biking trails Pennsylvania has to offer. This 100 yr old farmhouse is on a 284 acre working farm. Approximately 15 mins from Tidioute and the Allegheny River and about 7 mins from the Brokenstraw creek.

French Creek Flood Plain Overlook

1 site · Tent36 acres · Union City, PA

This tent site sits in the woods on a hill just above the corner of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) and a small tributary creek. It faces northwest over the valley providing amazing sunset views. This location is on the high-side of the Union City Dam which is a dry bed, flood control dam. Which means during snow melt, or rainy streaks, the dam will fill up and flood the entire valley. However during dry spells, French Creek will appear as any other creek. At peak flooding, it will make its way all the way up the tributary valley, making a beautiful lake front campsite. Unfortunately, this only occurs a few weeks out of the year (typically early spring and occasionally during wet falls) and is fairly unpredictable (you can compare the high-water vs low-water views from the photos). Most of the summer you can still enjoy the view over both the tributary valley and French Creek valley. (DISCLAIMER: Once or twice a year during the wettest streaks, the water rises high enough to flood the driveway, making it impossible to drive up directly to the campsite. If this happens, you will be notified before so you can choose either to be refunded and not stay or you can park 100 yards up the road and hike into the campsite to enjoy the unique and rare lakefront views. Again, these are natural events that are infrequent and unpredictable, but also provide a truly spectacular setting.) Located at the end of a dead end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagles nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, as well as frequently crossing both valleys. All types of waterfowl flock the lake when it's flooded. I've personally seen up to 1000 geese at one time. Beyond relaxing and wildlife watching, there are plenty of other activities to explore in the area. Access to many nature walking trails. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. Kayaks/canoes can be used to float the creek when dry or paddle up and down the reservoir lake when flooded. Centrally located between the 2 small towns of Union City and Waterford with gas stations, grocery stores, great local dinning options, and more. About a half an hour drive to Erie and Presque Isle State Park. Come enjoy this extremely unique stretch of French Creek and Pennsylvania woods! DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit.

The Highlander

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Pittsfield, PA

Rustic cabin with some creature comforts. Electric cooking range, microwave, coffee pot, small refrigerator TV and blu-ray player. Outdoor propane grill, charcoal grill and fire ring. There is no running water in the camp. There is an outhouse for toilet facilities. We provide filtered water for drinking and cooking. We also provide fire wood.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

67%

(3)

Pymatuning State Park

Pymatuning South, Pennsylvania

Woodcock Creek Lake

Saegertown, Pennsylvania

99%

(36)

Allegheny National Forest

Sheffield, Pennsylvania

100%

(1)

Pymatuning State Park OH

Geneva On The Lake, Ohio

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Presque Isle guide

Overview

It's easy to see why Presque Isle is a National Natural Landmark. The 3,200-acre peninsula is a mesmerizing wild haven jutting from the shores of Erie, Pennsylvania. With year-round recreation options to spare, it's a must-visit on Lake Erie.

Ready to explore Presque Isle State Park? The 13 sandy swimming beaches and 21 miles of trails are a great start. You can also gawk at the pristine shoreline from Peninsula Drive—keep an eye out for the historic lighthouses. Canoeing, biking, inline skating, and hiking are a few other ways to see the park.

The park itself offers no camping since it's day use only. Luckily, the region boasts tons of private RV parks with full hook-ups and campgrounds with tent camping around Erie and Fairview. Fire rings, picnic tables, and even Wi-Fi are a few amenities to enjoy.

Once you've found your home base, discover the calm waters of Presque Isle Bay. The state park's 500-slip marina is ground zero for water skiing, wakeboarding or just cruising while ospreys fly overhead. Trout, muskie, and walleye fishing is also big here, so don't forget your tackle.

For viewing local wildlife, head to Gull Point Natural Area. Situated on the far end of Presque Isle, it's been named one of the best birding spots in the United States. You definitely want to bring your camera and binoculars.

Keep in mind Presque Isle isn't the only park in the area. Just 12 miles west of Erie, you come to Erie Bluffs State Park. Stop here to explore 5+ miles of trails and take in fantastic views from a 90-foot bluff.

While this Lake Erie paradise can get crowded, Memorial Day through Labor Day is still a great time to visit. The weather is warm, and recreation options such as state park rental bikes are still available.

Pennsylvania winters are cold and snowy, meaning many campgrounds are only open seasonally. On the other hand, a heated cabin gives you access to the region's best winter recreation. Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and wind skating (think kite surfing meets ice skating) are just a few options.