Elk State Forest
00 review258 Sizerville Road, Emporium, Pennsylvania, 15834, United States
Elk State Forest
$7.00 - $7.00 / 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
The reservation fee for the campsite is $7 as indicated for dispersed camping purposes.
About this campground
Discover the breathtaking expanse of Elk State Forest, where 217,000 acres of pristine wilderness await your exploration. This magnificent forest sanctuary, cloaked in lush northern hardwoods and majestic mixed oak groves, offers adventurers a rare glimpse into Pennsylvania's untamed heart. Here, dispersed recreational facilities blend seamlessly with the landscape, allowing visitors to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in nature alongside the legendary wild elk herd that calls these ancient woods home.
Elk State Forest offers a variety of camping experiences, including primitive backcountry camping and improved sites. However, the focus is primarily on dispersed and rustic camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living legacy where history roams freely through the forest. Named for the majestic elk that once thundered through these valleys in great numbers, Elk State Forest stands as a testament to conservation success. Today, it serves as the cherished sanctuary for Pennsylvania's thriving wild elk herd, offering visitors the extraordinary opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat—a sight that connects us to the wilderness heritage of generations past.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of changing seasons in Elk State Forest, where each time of year paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Winter transforms the forest into a serene wonderland, with crystalline snow blanketing the trails and temperatures that invite cozy campfire gatherings. As spring awakens the forest floor, summer arrives with warm, golden days perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, punctuated by refreshing afternoon showers that bring the scent of rain-washed earth and rejuvenated foliage.
ElevationThe forest's varied topography creates an ever-changing landscape of ridges and valleys, offering hikers and outdoor enthusiasts diverse terrain to explore at multiple elevations throughout their journey.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by a landscape that seems painted by nature's finest brush. Elk State Forest showcases a stunning tapestry of northern hardwood and mixed-oak forests that cascade down steep sidehills and climb toward ridgetops crowned with premium hardwood stands. Deep river valleys carve dramatic corridors through the terrain, while expansive vistas from elevated viewpoints reward those who venture upward with panoramic scenes that stretch to the horizon, offering moments of pure wilderness wonder.
Geological RegionNestled within Pennsylvania's spectacular Northcentral Forests region, this geological wonderland tells an ancient story through its dramatic topography. Deep river valleys have carved their way through millennia, creating steep-sided hills that challenge and reward hikers in equal measure. From the ridgetops, where premium hardwood stands reach skyward, sweeping vistas unfold across this rugged landscape, revealing the raw beauty of a region shaped by time, water, and the persistent forces of nature.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features such as ADA-compliant facilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeNo data is provided regarding the sizes of campsites in Elk State Forest.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information is given about the privacy level of campsites.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Limit of 7 continuous days of camping on state forest land.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Occupants shall include at least one person 18 years of age or older.
Groups
No details provided about group camping or site capacities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is dispersed and lacks traditional organized layouts.
Open and Closed SeasonNo explicit information regarding specific open/closed seasons; refer to State Forest regulations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through Pennsylvania's State Forest websites and district offices.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit information regarding walk-up/first-come-first-served availability is provided.
Cancellation PolicyThe permit is null and void if the reservation is canceled or transferred prior to the date of arrival.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Elk State Forest provides numerous activities primarily centered around its natural features. Hiking, horseback riding, fishing, elk viewing, hunting, and sightseeing are all highlighted as popular activities. In the winter, the forest becomes a hub for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails of moderate difficulty with scenic overlooks and the chance to explore deep river valleys. User reviews commend the area for its 'must-see, easy to navigate' paths.Fishing
Fishing in rivers and streams is available, but no specifics regarding fish species or fishing conditions are provided.Boating
Boating opportunities are mentioned, specifically canoeing and kayaking. Details about specific water bodies or facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a key attraction, with the area known for its elk herd. One user noted seeing a bear with two cubs.Winter Activities
The forest offers 100 miles of maintained snowmobile trails and 23 miles of cross-country ski trails during winter.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are available as water-based recreational activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are prohibited from March 1 through May 25 without authorization from the District Forester. Self-contained camp stoves are allowed.
- Quiet hours are Disorderly conduct and unreasonable noise are prohibited; generators creating excessive noise are explicitly banned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and elk. User reviews mention spotting bears with cubs.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
Emporium features the District Office and likely local emergency facilities, though explicit listings of hospitals or police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to remove all garbage, waste, and rubbish from the site, which must be disposed of properly offsite.
Proximity to water featuresCreeks and rivers are mentioned among within-facility amenities.
Common complaintsCell service is spotty according to user reviews.
Campground Map
258 Sizerville Road, Emporium, Pennsylvania, 15834, United States
Driving directionsThe District Office is located in the town of Emporium, 1/4 mile north of the intersection of SR 120 and SR 155. Emporium is approximately 19 miles east of the city of St Marys. The District Office is approximately 1 hour north of the DuBois and Snow Shoe/Clearfield exits of Interstate 80.
Road access involves paved routes through SR 120 and SR 155 to Emporium. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.Nearby places
Emporium (0 miles), St Marys (19 miles, ~30 min drive), DuBois (~1 hour drive), Snow Shoe (~1 hour drive), Clearfield (~1 hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Emporium provides access to basic supplies
closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel specifics are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Elk State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise Elk State Forest for its natural beauty and dispersed recreational opportunities. The spotty cell service and lack of elk sightings were noted by some.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users highlight the ease of navigation to various scenic stops, the opportunity to camp in solitude away from crowds, and the beauty of the area.
Common Concerns
Spotty cell service and the occasional difficulty in spotting elk were mentioned as drawbacks.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest taking advantage of the solitude during hiking or camping and being prepared for limited cell reception.
Seasonal Insights
Winter activities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing are noted as popular. The fall season likely sees increased interest due to elk viewing, but this is not explicitly mentioned by users.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Love this place, love this area. A must-see, easy to navigate to different stops.' - Cody Morgan
2. 'Thank goodness for public land. Did a little hiking and camped far from the madding crowd. Saw...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews mention specific campsites by number or location.
Accessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews were found.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept under control and attended at all times. No user reviews directly address experiences with pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025