The best camping near Oil Creek State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Oil Creek State Park adventure.

Discover the historic charm of Oil Creek State Park.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Oil Creek State Park

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Muddy Myst

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Kittanning, PA

Eco-Campsites and Recreation Area located in the heart of Western Pennsylvania! The site is in a great location, only a 12 minute drive from Buttermilk Falls and the Rails to Trails Bike Path that runs along the Allegheny River. For those interested in fishing we are only a short drive from Pine Creek, Cowanshannock Creek, Keystone Lake, Mahoning Dam, and Crooked Creek Lake. For those interested in off-roading, the Scrubgrass OHV park is only 20 minutes away.

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River Hills Above the Allegheny

7 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Parker, PA

Located just outside of Parker, PA and 25 minutes from I-80, our campsite is very accessible, yet still very remote. With 4 campsites on 75 acres, guests have ample privacy and space, with the freedom to roam this posted property that has no homes on it. Perched high above the Allegheny there are several spots to take in the wonderful views. There is also a waterfall with a 3’ deep pool below it. Great for splashing with kids or dogs, guests love exploring the creek bottom and making new discoveries. The more curious guests sometimes find the ruins of the original homestead, chimney and spring house that sit upstream. The property is teeming with wildlife. Birds and tree frogs will be the soundtrack of your visit, and often deer will be seen nosing along the outskirts of your site in the mornings and evenings. Turkey, bald eagles and even bear are occasionally spotted, so be prepared to secure your food and trash at night. For those coming to disconnect, you have found the right place. But if cell service is needed, you will have enough to get texts out and depending what site you booked, calls and internet as well. For those who seek an electrical outlet AND and EV charger, we have a site for you! We also have a site with a large canvas tent already set up for your convenience. Within a 15 minute drive of your campsite you can find The North Country Trail, Rails to Trails Trailheads and Boat Launches on the Allegheny River, Groceries, dining and beer.

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Bill S. and Nancy's property

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Mercer, PA

It's pretty dark here. There are no large cities anywhere around here. My family moved here in 1957 and I purchased it from my father in 1975. My wife is responsible for much of the landscaping and home improvements that have been done since 1990. We are retired self-employed .

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Neal Homestead Camp

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Brookville, PA

There are 5 sites to stop with an RV or tent plus a stone cabin with loft. The soil is very rocky not easy to farm so Grandpa said they " lived on elderberries and groundhog". 17 miles away is Punxsytawney home of the famous groundhog. There is 50 acres with a pink marked trail to Red Bank Creek and back up through a hemlock forest. A small stream runs through the property and forms a rocky delta in Red Bank Creek. I love the rocks on the property huge and small. Hike, enjoy the sound of the stream tickling through property, stargaze, or rest and relax in a hammock. There is one along the little stream and one at Outdoor Adventure Camp Site. No hunting on property but fishing allowed. Please keep fires in firepit and noise levels low.

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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The Tiny Home

4 sites · Lodging7 acres · Barkeyville, PA

Learn more about this land: The TINY HOME features: • 240 square feet plus sleeping lofts • Sleeping space for 5 consisting of one double bed and two single beds in the lofts and one pullout on the main floor • Electric fireplace, stove, and oven • Refrigerator • Central HVAC • Large wooden deck. The SITE also features: • Wooded trails • Three fire pits with plentiful free firewood • 250 square foot pavilion with picnic table. • Trails thru woods plus large lawn area OTHER: • Pets generally permitted but not inside house. • Recommend good tires, or 4 wheel drive to get up driveway, deflating tires may be necessary in bad weather. • No Smoking Inside

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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) 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.

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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.

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Roller-Coaster Road Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents350 acres · Cooperstown, PA

The Roller-Coaster Road Ranch offers many maintained trails, perfect for hiking or horseback riding, The property is mainly forested, but does contain numerous open spaces perfect for a rustic camping experience. The farm has a few large open fields that are plowed and planted seasonally. Various wildlife populates the area; whitetail deer, turkey, black bear, and bald eagles. A stocked trout stream passes through portions of the property and connects to a larger stream with many options for swimming, wading, and crayfish hunting. Many different campsites are available in various uniquely situated sites.

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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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Rustic Acres Rentals

13 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Pittsfield, PA

Rustic Acres Rentals is 50 acres of mostly dense woods with a beautiful stream running through the property that is great to cool off in the summer or just to sit by and relax. The property sits in a valley, so it blocks the lights from town at night to create super bright stars. We are 12 minutes to the closest boat launch on the Allegheny River, 20 minutes from Rocky Gap ATV Trail, and 40 minutes from Kinzua Dam and Kinzua Reservoir where you will also find the heart of the Allegheny National Forest. Endless things to do here including miles of biking and hiking trails that have amazing overlooks of the reservoir.

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Lake Lucy RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Tionesta, PA

founded in 1955 as a campground, amusement park and pay to fish lake, lake lucy has a rich history of having families spending time together. After the death of lake lucys founder Raymond Mealy in 2007 the amusements and train were all removed as well as the zoo. The Steinman family purchased the property in 2017 and began remodeling the pavilion and putting in water and sewer lines to be able to use the campground and pavilion again. It has been a place for the Steinman and Mealy families and friends to enjoy for the last few years and we fealt it was time to once again welcome the public to enjoy our property! Learn more about this land: Campers can fish, bike, swim at lake lucy. They will have access to both ponds. Top pond has bass and have caught bass over 20 inches with the largest being 23 inches and over 8 pounds. Both ponds have bass, crappie, perch, bluegill, and carp. We are within a few miles of a dollar store if any supplies are needed, a gas station is at the end of the road and we are only a few minutes from cook forest as well as the tionesta reservoir. Water is available on site for campers and campers can use the bath house. In the bath house there is 1 full bathroom with a shower and the other bathroom is just a half bath. Quiet and peaceful, come relax and enjoy time with your family at lake Lucy! we are also conveniently located close to the bike trail near clarion as well as the bike trails in cook forest and oil creek state park. If you like to ride your e bike or mountain bike we are centrally located for a great biking trip! GPS coordinates are N 41.39433. W-79.38976

The best camping near Oil Creek State Park guide

Overview

About

Step into the past and embrace the great outdoors at Oil Creek State Park. Here, the story of the world's first commercial oil well unfolds amid a landscape of scenic trails, lush forests, and tranquil waterfalls. Whether you're hiking, picnicking, or kayaking, this park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Oil Creek State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers lush greenery, but be prepared for busier trails and warmer weather.

Know before you go

Check the park's operating hours, open from sunrise to sunset, and plan your visit accordingly.
For a historical adventure, visit the Train Station Visitor Center, open weekends from June through October.
ADA accessible facilities ensure everyone can enjoy the park's offerings.
Stay safe by sticking to marked trails, especially when visiting the park's waterfalls.
Remember to pack out your trash and respect the park's natural beauty.