Simon B Elliott State Park
00 reviewC/O PARKER DAM STATE PARK, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States
Simon B Elliott State Park
$28.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
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$5.00
Cabins cost $60 for two days, according to reviews. Tent camping for non-residents costs $29.50 according to user feedback.
About this campground
Deep within Pennsylvania's densely wooded wilderness, Simon B. Elliott State Park beckons those seeking genuine solitude and rustic simplicity. This hidden gem showcases beautifully preserved Civilian Conservation Corps architecture throughout its grounds, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling, overcrowded campgrounds that dominate today's outdoor scene. With non-electric campsites nestled among towering trees and a warm welcome extended to four-legged companions, this tranquil retreat celebrates the timeless art of unplugged camping where the only soundtrack comes from nature itself.
Simon B. Elliott State Park offers a variety of camping styles, including primitive, tent, and cabin camping.
Historical SignificanceThe enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in the park's distinctive stone and timber structures, each building a testament to the craftsmanship and determination of Depression-era workers who shaped this wilderness refuge. While some of these historic buildings stand silent and unused today, they whisper stories of the past and hold tremendous potential for restoration, waiting to once again serve future generations of nature enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms the park into a verdant paradise where warm days invite leisurely camping adventures and cool nights promise restful sleep under star-filled skies. When winter's snow blankets the landscape, the park reveals its alter ego as a snowmobiler's playground, with pristine trails winding through frost-kissed forests and across frozen meadows, creating an entirely different but equally enchanting wilderness experience.
ElevationPerched at an ideal elevation for both camping comfort and hiking adventures, the park's terrain offers surprising diversity. The mysterious swamp meadows create pockets of unique lowland ecology, where rare plants thrive and wildlife congregates, providing fascinating contrasts to the surrounding upland forests and adding layers of ecological richness to every outdoor exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of swamp meadows weaves through magnificent stands of second-growth hardwood and oak timber, creating an ever-changing landscape that delights the senses in every season. This diverse habitat supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters – majestic elk browsing in dawn meadows, elusive black bears foraging among berry patches, graceful deer stepping silently through dappled sunlight, and chattering chipmunks providing endless entertainment as they dash between ancient tree roots.
Geological RegionEmbraced by the vast expanse of Moshannon State Forest, the park occupies a special ecological niche where mysterious swamp meadows punctuate the rolling landscape. These wetland gems, surrounded by a resilient forest of second-growth mixed hardwood and oak timber, create a unique geological tapestry that tells the story of nature's remarkable ability to recover and thrive, offering visitors a glimpse into Pennsylvania's wild heart.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA-accessible cabins and restrooms are available within the cabin area. Some cabins have fully handicap-accessible bathrooms.
Sites SizeSites are generally small and compact. Some reviewers describe the sites as too small for tents, although most have adequate space for either tents or campers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites is limited; the campground is described as clustered and lacking seclusion, with many sites backing directly into the woods.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the woods provide privacy; cabins include private bathrooms and hot showers.
Best CampsitesCabin reviews are generally positive, highlighting privacy and accessibility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Occupants include one person at least 18 years old.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall rustic layout with 25 campsites; several back into woods for extra privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round access, with peak activities in summer and winter snowmobiling season.
Reservation PlatformsKeys for cabins must be picked up at Parker Dam State Park.
Walk-in AvailabilityQuiet mornings suggest low occupancy rates; only two spots were occupied on a Sunday morning according to a visitor.
Cancellation PolicyRules for permit violations include immediate revocation, citation, or responsibility for damages.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A range of outdoor activities is available for campers, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. While the park is quiet and simple, its trails and natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for nature exploration.
Hiking
The park features easy hiking trails accessible directly from the campground. Trails are well-marked, and one spans about 3 miles, offering a serene experience with opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife.Biking
Biking is listed as a common activity, with trails suitable for varied skill levels described by some reviewers.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently report spotting deer, turkeys, chipmunks, and occasionally bears. The park’s natural environment supports diverse wildlife, making it ideal for observation.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The park serves as a starting point for snowmobiling enthusiasts.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed; firewood is available for purchase at $5 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are 9 PM to 8 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPredominance of wildlife including bears and snakes; highway noise from I-80.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services would be accessible through nearby Clearfield, which has hospitals and ranger stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingOn-site trash and recycling facilities are available. Campers are required to clean and properly dispose of waste before vacating their sites.
Proximity to water featuresSome swamp meadows and groundwater sources present.
Common complaintsNoise from I-80 and outdated facilities, per user reviews.
HostCampground host site is the only one with hookups, per user feedback.
Campground Map
C/O PARKER DAM STATE PARK, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States
Driving directionsSimon B. Elliott State Park is in Clearfield County off PA 153 just north of Exit 111 of I-80, nine miles north of the community of Clearfield.
Road access is described as blacktop, with easy access off Interstate 80. Some user reviews indicate proximity to I-80 results in constant noise throughout the night.Nearby places
Clearfield (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping supplies, and laundromats are available within 10 miles at Parker Dam State Park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Simon B Elliott State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the park’s rustic charm, quiet atmosphere, and suitability for those seeking a simple camping experience. While some facilities are described as outdated, the park’s natural beauty and serenity are widely appreciated.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the park’s peaceful setting, ADA-accessible facilities, well-maintained cabins, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The hiking trails and proximity to nature also...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include road noise from nearby Interstate 80, outdated facilities, lack of on-site showers for campers (excluding cabin guests), and limited privacy between campsites. Additionally,...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies, especially for cabin stays, as there is no camp store on-site. Firewood can be collected from downed limbs or purchased. Early morning hikes are...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently note the park’s tranquility and natural beauty. Winter reviews highlight the park’s suitability for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Interstate noise is a consistent...
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Camper Quotes
"Small rustic 25 site campground. All non-electric and pet-friendly." "Beautiful wooded area, stayed at cabin in woods. It was so rustic and charming!" "Great cell service. Nice private...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No detailed reviews specifying the best or worst individual campsites were provided.
Accessibility Features
Positive feedback on ADA-accessible cabins and restrooms. Fully accessible bathrooms in some cabins were described as luxurious.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly camping is available, and all campsites accommodate pets. However, reviewers recommend ensuring pets are kept in designated areas as per park rules.
Last updated August 10, 2025