Shenango Rec Area Campground
4.03408 reviews2442 Kelly Road
Shenango Rec Area Campground
$18.00 - $37.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$33.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and site type. Peak season rates range from $33 for standard electric sites to $37. Non-peak rates range from $18 to $34.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Shenango River Lake, this vibrant recreation area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comforts and natural beauty. Launch your boat from the convenient ramp for a day of exploration, watch children's laughter echo from the playgrounds, or simply unwind knowing that clean flush toilets and refreshing showers await after your adventures. Whether you're casting a line into the shimmering waters, paddling through peaceful coves, or hiking scenic trails, Shenango Rec Area Campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable lakeside memories.
The campground offers a variety of camping types, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Primitive and cabin lodging are not available.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the rich heritage surrounding Shenango, where the magnificent Kidds Mill Covered Bridge stands as a testament to 1800s craftsmanship with its rare Smith-Truss design. History buffs will delight in discovering the fascinating remnants of the Erie Extension Canal, silent witnesses to the region's pivotal role in America's industrial revolution. These cultural treasures transform your camping trip into a journey through centuries of American ingenuity and perseverance.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Pennsylvania's stunning seasons at Shenango, where warm summer days averaging in the 80s create perfect conditions for swimming and water sports, punctuated by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that paint the sky. As autumn arrives, witness the surrounding hardwoods burst into flame-colored brilliance, while winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland with temperatures dipping into the crisp 20s, offering a completely different perspective of this four-season paradise.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides easy access to both water activities and woodland exploration, creating an ideal basecamp for adventures at any fitness level.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of northern hardwood forest where towering Black Cherry, Sugar Maple, American Beech, and Eastern Hemlock create a living canopy overhead. This diverse ecosystem attracts an impressive array of wildlife – watch for white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush, and the breathtaking sight of osprey diving for fish while majestic bald eagles soar overhead. Each season paints this natural canvas with different colors, from spring's delicate blooms to autumn's fiery display.
Geological RegionThe campground occupies a privileged position within the expansive river valley where the Shenango River and Pymatuning Creek have carved broad, flat corridors through the landscape over millennia. This unique geological setting, embraced by rolling hills clothed in northern hardwood forests, creates a diverse ecosystem where water meets woodland, offering campers the best of both aquatic and terrestrial environments in one spectacular location.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features accessible amenities, including an ADA fishing pier located nearby in Clark, PA.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some being described as spacious and level while others are small and sloped.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some campsites are secluded, while others are densely packed with little privacy between sites.
Total Campsites330 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLakeview Loop is preferred for scenic sites, although it lacks electricity.
Best CampsitesWaterfront sites such as #39, #272, and #206 are highly recommended for their scenic views and proximity to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in time is 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights per visit is allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two camping units allowed per site: one wheeled unit and one tent OR two tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features multiple loops and sections, with 330 sites accommodating tents and RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9 to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by phone at 877-644-8777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is reservation-only, but same-day reservations are allowed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee plus loss of the first night's use fee. No-show penalties include a $20 fee and forfeiture of use fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at the Shenango Rec Area Campground include hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions such as the Chestnut Run Swim Beach and Trout Island Trail expand recreational opportunities. Anglers seek bass, walleye, muskellunge, and panfish in Shenango Lake.
Hiking
The Coonie Trail is a self-guided interpretive nature trail approximately half a mile long, offering educational insights into local habitats. Nearby trails include the Shenango Hiking Trail (7.5 miles) and Trout Island Trail (5 miles, paved).Fishing
Fishing is popular for bass, walleye, muskellunge, and various panfish. An ADA fishing pier is located nearby in Clark, PA.Swimming
The nearby Chestnut Run Swim Beach, located 3 miles from the campground, provides swimming opportunities. However, no lifeguards are on duty.Biking
Cycling is available on paved trails such as the Trout Island Trail. On-site roads are suitable for biking and skateboarding.Boating
Shenango Lake supports unlimited horsepower boating, with six free boat launches available for access. Nearby RC’s Marina offers boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife includes deer, turkey, osprey, and eagles. The northern hardwood forest provides excellent bird watching opportunities.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing and swimming at Chestnut Run Swim Beach. Beaches are sandy but shared with the local population.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing were mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities are available, especially along the Shenango Water Trail (7.5 miles).Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are From 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is prevalent throughout the campground. Mosquitoes are a common nuisance, particularly during summer.
Active alertsConstruction-related closures and limited amenities (e.g., porta-potties replacing restrooms) have been reported.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Nearest hospital is in Hermitage, PA (~7 miles). Police assistance is available locally. Ranger Station contact: 724-646-1124.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 to September 2, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash containers are available throughout the campground and at the dump station. No recycling facilities were explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated along Shenango River Lake, with access to Duck Lake and several boat ramps.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include outdated bathrooms, noise from generators, crowded sites, and presence of poison ivy.
HostMixed reviews on campground hosts, ranging from helpful to unprofessional.
Campground Map
2442 Kelly Road
Driving directionsTake Exit 4B (formerly Exit 1) off I-80 and follow Route 18 north about 6 miles until you cross the lake's causeway. The park is on the left, but this is a divided highway. Continue north about 1/4 mile, take the Birchwood Drive exit, make the turn-around and go south on Route 18. Before you cross the causeway again, make a right onto West Lake Road and travel approximately 1/4 mile to the park entrance on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but guests must use a turn-around due to the divided highway. Seasonal road closures or construction projects may impact accessibility.Nearby places
Sharon, PA (~7 miles, ~15 minutes)
Youngstown, OH (~21 miles, ~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel can be found in Hermitage, PA (~7 miles). Firewood is available across the street from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.0
408 reviews
Shenango Rec Area Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the Shenango Rec Area Campground are mixed, with praise for the scenic lakefront sites and friendly staff, but criticism of outdated facilities, lack of privacy, and issues with cleanliness. Seasonal closures and construction projects have also impacted guest experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 408 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback emphasizes the lakefront campsites, opportunities for boating and fishing, friendly staff, and family-friendly atmosphere. Guests often highlight the beauty of Shenango Lake and the...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include outdated and poorly maintained facilities, limited privacy between campsites, noisy neighbors, and inconsistent enforcement of campground rules. Construction and temporary...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend reserving lakefront campsites early, bringing sufficient bug spray due to mosquitoes, and checking the map to ensure proximity to preferred amenities. Some suggest avoiding peak...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention crowded conditions, noise, and construction-related closures. Off-season reviews are generally more positive, highlighting peacefulness and cleaner facilities.
Based on 408 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "The campground is very well kept. I didn't spot one piece of litter the entire time we were there." - Michael F. 2. "We love camping at Shenango Lake! Had a site right on the water with a...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews often mention lakefront sites as the best option, while some sites, such as Site #213, are criticized for being small and poorly maintained. Site #206 is noted for its proximity...
Based on 408 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground offers accessible amenities, including nearby ADA fishing piers. Reviews from users with disabilities were not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 408 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but guests are required to keep them leashed and clean up after them. Some reviews mention excessive barking during the night, impacting the overall experience.
Based on 408 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025