Locust Lake State Park
00 reviewc/o Tuscarora State Park, BARNESVILLE, Pennsylvania, 18214, United States
Locust Lake State Park
$23.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
User reviews mention campsite fees ranging from $23 to $33 per night depending on amenities. Additional costs such as $5 per bundle of firewood are referenced.
About this campground
Nestled in the embrace of Locust Mountain, Locust Lake State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern camping amenities. Here, 280 thoughtfully distributed campsites serve as your gateway to adventure, whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV. Days unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line into the shimmering waters, paddle across the lake's glassy surface, or explore winding trails that reveal new wonders at every turn. Families gather for lakeside picnics while the mountain air carries the sounds of laughter and discovery. While some sites challenge with their slopes and facilities occasionally show their age during busy seasons, the overwhelming charm of this mountain retreat continues to draw visitors seeking respite from the everyday world.
Locust Lake State Park accommodates a mix of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Group sites and primitive options are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceFor generations, Locust Lake State Park has woven itself into the fabric of local family traditions. Parents who once roasted marshmallows here as children now watch their own kids discover the same hidden trails and secret fishing spots. This cherished regional treasure has served as the backdrop for countless first camping trips, marriage proposals by the lake, and annual reunions that mark the passage of time. While formal historical records may be sparse, the true history of this park lives in the memories and stories passed down through families who return year after year.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Locust Lake State Park with its own distinctive palette. Spring arrives with enthusiasm, bringing rejuvenating rains that occasionally transform trails into muddy adventures – pack those waterproof boots! Summer delivers warm days perfect for lake activities, though afternoon thunderstorms can add drama to the mountain landscape. Autumn transforms the forest into a tapestry of gold and crimson, offering crisp, ideal camping conditions that seasoned visitors know to book early. Winter wraps the park in a crystalline blanket, with freezing temperatures creating a wonderland for the hardy souls who embrace cold-weather camping.
ElevationPerched on the slopes of Locust Mountain, the park offers camping with a view. The mountain setting creates natural terraces and vantage points throughout the campground, where morning mists rise from the valley below and evening shadows stretch long across the landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryA pristine 52-acre lake forms the sparkling centerpiece of this mountain sanctuary, its waters reflecting the dense forest canopy that surrounds it. Ancient trees tower overhead, creating a natural cathedral where sunlight filters through in golden streams. Miles of trails wind through this verdant ecosystem, revealing hidden waterfalls, seasonal streams that sing their way down the mountainside, and viewpoints that steal your breath. The interplay of water, forest, and mountain creates an ever-changing canvas – from morning mists dancing across the lake to sunset painting the peaks in shades of rose and amber.
Geological RegionLocust Mountain provides the dramatic geological foundation for this outdoor paradise. The ancient rock formations and mountain topography have sculpted a landscape perfectly suited for recreation – creating the natural bowl that cradles the 52-acre lake, carving valleys where trails now wind, and establishing slopes that challenge hikers while rewarding them with panoramic views. This rugged mountain terrain, softened by centuries of forest growth, offers diverse ecosystems that support everything from quiet forest meditation to heart-pumping mountain biking adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-compliant restrooms and sites are available in the campground.
Sites SizeVaried sizes with some large enough for a 10'x16' tent. However, RV users reported that certain sites are too small or sloped. A reviewer noted, 'The site was BARELY big enough for our 30 ft. camper.'
Sites PrivacyCampsites have varied privacy levels. Some are well-shaded and provide seclusion, while others are closely packed, diminishing privacy.
Total Campsites280 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommend avoiding significantly sloped sites if using large RVs or campers.
Best CampsitesSite 103 is praised for accommodating tents, tree coverage, and privacy. Site 182 is recommended for future visits.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in rules enforce no early arrivals, with penalties reported for setting up even 15 minutes before allowed time.
Check-out
No details provided for check-out times.
Stay Limit
Undefined
Guests Allowed Per Site
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features loops for tent and RV sites. Separation between tent and RV areas is noted in reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open during the regular camping season, with closures reported in late autumn.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made through Pennsylvania State Parks platforms; specific URLs or platforms are not detailed.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served availability not explicitly stated; user reviews suggest sites fill during peak holidays and weekends.
Cancellation PolicyPermit may be revoked, and occupants may be required to vacate if regulations are violated.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Locust Lake State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife observation. The centerpiece is the 52-acre Locust Lake, which supports kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Seasonal activities include ice fishing and ice skating.
Hiking
The park features several hiking trails, including a paved trail around the lake that is popular and family-friendly. Some trails are less maintained, and one reviewer mentioned, 'The trails could use some maintenance. They’re great but easy to lose your way.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity with the lake being stocked with trout. However, some users highlighted that fishing conditions have declined in recent years. 'The fishing isn’t good anymore,' mentioned one frequent visitor.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in a designated area of the lake. A sandy beach is available exclusively for campground visitors, making it less crowded. Some reviews, however, noted accessibility challenges.Biking
A paved biking path encircles the lake, offering easy terrain suitable for families.Boating
Non-motorized boating is encouraged, with rentals available for paddleboards, rowboats, and kayaks. Separate boat launches exist for campers and day visitors.Wildlife viewing
The park offers ample opportunities for observing local wildlife, including eagles. One reviewer remarked, 'Beautiful campground for the family. Saw 2 eagles.'Beach activities
The beach area provides sunbathing and swimming opportunities. The sandy area is exclusive to campers.Winter Activities
Seasonal ice fishing and ice skating are available when conditions permit.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular activities on the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings; firewood can be purchased nearby.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 9 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSloped campsites requiring leveling blocks are common. Wildlife encounters include chipmunks and foxes, and falling branches during storms have been reported. Close proximity to I-81 may contribute to noise pollution.
Active alertsRecent reviews mention water coming out of manhole covers flooding sites 100 and 101 during heavy usage periods. Construction and renovations are ongoing.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season appears to align with summer months; no specific dates provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but maintenance issues have been reported. 'People had no problem leaving their garbage all around the park,' mentioned one reviewer.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground surrounds a 52-acre lake suitable for kayaking, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include dirty bathrooms, sloped and muddy sites, noisy neighbors, and overcrowded conditions during peak times. Some users reported unprofessional staff encounters.
HostSome reviews describe campground hosts as helpful and attentive; however, specific contact details are missing.
Campground Map
c/o Tuscarora State Park, BARNESVILLE, Pennsylvania, 18214, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-81 northbound, take Exit 131B, cross under the I-81 overpass and make an immediate left turn toward New Boston. Travel 1.1 miles to a left turn, follow signs. (Left turn is also signed.) From I-81 southbound, take Exit 131A, left turn then travel 1.0 miles to a left turn, follow signs. (Left turn is also signed.) TWO MILES SW OF EXIT 131A (HOMETOWN) OF I-81; SIX MILES WEST OF TUSCARORA STATE PARK; EIGHT MILES WEST OF TAMAQUA; THREE MILES SOUTH OF MAHANOY CITY; SEVEN MILES NORTH OF POTTSVILLE.
Road access appears straightforward for drivers exiting Interstate 81 on clearly marked exits. User reviews indicate some potholes and rough roads near the campground entrance, though this does not seem to render the area inaccessible.Nearby places
Hometown (2 miles), Tuscarora State Park (6 miles), Tamaqua (8 miles), Mahanoy City (3 miles), Pottsville (7 miles)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: nearest camp store, groceries, laundromat, and fuel stores. Inside the campground, a food concession/store sells essentials like firewood, basic groceries, bait, and ice cream.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Locust Lake State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Locust Lake State Park are mixed. While many praise the park's natural beauty, shaded campsites, and family-friendly atmosphere, others criticize the uncleanliness of facilities and lack of upkeep.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- Beautiful lake and forested surroundings
- Family-friendly activities like kayaking, biking, and hiking
- Well-shaded and secluded campsites in some areas
- Camp store with essential items and...
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Common Concerns
- Unclean and poorly maintained bathroom and shower facilities
- Campsites with poor leveling, especially for RVs
- Noise issues due to lack of enforcement of quiet hours
- Overcrowding and lack of...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Select sites carefully for RVs as some are sloped or small.
- Bring extra leveling equipment for RV camping.
- Visit early in the camping season for quieter experiences.
- Avoid popular holidays if...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with crowded conditions and noise complaints. Early spring and fall are quieter and recommended for a more serene experience.
Camper Quotes
- 'Absolutely gorgeous park! Very clean park. VERY picturesque.'
- 'Campground is nice, love the lake.'
- 'Some picnic tables could be replaced and with the paving project happening this year are...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 103: Well-suited for a 10'x16' tent; some roots but spacious with hammock hanging options.
Site 182: Recommended for a return visit by a user.
Site W50: Averaged $29/night; heavily wooded and...
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Accessibility Features
ADA facilities are noted in the campground, but specific user reviews addressing accessibility features are sparse.
Pet-Friendly Features
- 'You can also get pet-friendly sites!'
- 'It’s very family and pet-oriented—lots to do like fishing, bicycling, boating, and some hiking.'
Last updated August 10, 2025