Tionesta Rec. Area Campground
4.31346 reviewsTIONESTA LAKE PO BOX 539
Tionesta Rec. Area Campground
$30.00 - $46.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$44.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range between $30 and $46 depending on the site type and season. Peak season rates apply from May 19 to September 8.
About this campground
Nestled beneath the impressive Tionesta Dam, this enchanting recreation area invites you into a world where dense forests meet modern comfort. Here, full hookup sites blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, offering the perfect basecamp for exploring the pristine waters of Tionesta Lake and Creek. Whether you're drawn to meandering scenic trails that wind through ancient woodlands or seeking adventure on the water, this campground serves as your gateway to northwestern Pennsylvania's outdoor wonderland.
The Tionesta Recreation Area Campground accommodates various camping styles with full hookups and scenic surroundings.
Historical SignificanceLong before modern campers arrived, the Seneca people knew this place as 'where the water separates the land' – a poetic name that still captures the essence of this unique landscape. In the late 1800s, the whistle of narrow gauge railways echoed through these valleys as timber trains carved paths through virgin forests, hauling massive logs that built a nation. Today, remnants of this logging heritage add layers of history to your camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, the campground comes alive under warm sunshine and comfortable temperatures that beckon outdoor enthusiasts. Late spring showers nourish the verdant forest canopy, while summer brings those refreshing afternoon rains that cool the air and release the earthy scent of the woods. These peak months offer ideal conditions for everything from morning hikes to evening campfires under star-filled skies.
ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain provides comfortable camping conditions while offering varied topography for exploration and scenic views throughout the surrounding landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of northwestern Pennsylvania's rugged hills, where towering hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral around your campsite. The shimmering waters of Tionesta Lake wind gracefully through the landscape, reflecting sky and forest in equal measure. Beyond the campground boundaries, the vast wilderness of Allegheny National Forest and the ancient groves of Cook Forest State Park extend the adventure, offering endless opportunities to lose yourself in nature's grandeur.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic topography of northwestern Pennsylvania's hill country, the campground showcases the region's distinctive geological character. Rolling ridges clothed in dense forest give way to the serpentine waters of Tionesta Lake, creating a landscape sculpted by millennia of natural forces. This rugged terrain, interspersed with pristine waterways and protected forestlands, forms one of Pennsylvania's most captivating outdoor destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySites 69 and 71 are reserved for visitors needing an accessible campsite and require a Golden Access or America the Beautiful Access Pass.
Sites SizeSites range in size and include full hookups for RVs, accommodating various sizes of vehicles and campers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering more secluded settings. User reviews note, 'Some sites are next to the creek, while others are more open,' and 'Sites have a nice amount of privacy due to trees separating them.'
Total Campsites124 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 50 offers a fantastic view of Tionesta Creek but may require maintenance. Sites 118 and surrounding are great for group camping.
Best CampsitesWaterfront sites in Loop 3 are highly recommended for their scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during any visit or within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two vehicles maximum per site, 1 wheeled camper and 1 tent or 2 tents per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features several loops, most with full hookup sites. Loop 3 is preferred for waterfront access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 19 to September 8; out-of-season bookings unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; walk-up availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival, subject to a $10 cancellation fee plus applicable penalties for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Tionesta Recreation Area offers diverse activities including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Seasonal hunting, water skiing, and tubing are also available. The area is known for its rich history and scenic landscapes.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground. User reviews describe trails as 'easy to low-moderate,' with many enjoying wildlife viewing along the paths. A notable trail leads to the ridge overlooking the lake.Fishing
Fishing is popular in Tionesta Creek and nearby Allegheny River. User reviews highlight 'excellent fishing opportunities,' but some noted fluctuating water levels as a challenge.Swimming
Swimming is available in the beach area outside the campground entrance along Tionesta Creek. However, no lifeguards are on duty, and the swimming area is described as 'a grassy area along the creek.'Biking
Paved roads within the campground and surrounding areas make biking a popular activity. User reviews frequently praise the ease of biking and roller skating.Boating
A boat ramp and marina near the campground provide easy access to water sports. Visitors can kayak or canoe on Tionesta Lake and Allegheny River.Wildlife viewing
Commonly spotted wildlife includes white-tailed deer, porcupine, wild turkey, osprey, and opossum. User reviews often mention seeing wildlife during hikes and within the campground.Beach activities
The beach area by Tionesta Creek allows sunbathing and swimming but lacks a sandy shoreline, limiting traditional beach activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the provided information.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are popular activities facilitated by the boat ramp and marina.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; firewood must be purchased locally to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are listed but enforcement is inconsistent. Some users mention disturbances past midnight.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife like deer, porcupine, and opossum are common; campers are advised to store food securely. Water access may be steep and rocky in some areas.
Active alertsOccasional plumbing and water issues have been reported. Reviewers mention sites needing maintenance and muddy conditions during wet weather.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
The nearest emergency services include the Tionesta Ranger Station and the Tionesta Volunteer Fire Department.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 19 to September 8
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but recycling options are not mentioned. User reviews suggest that garbage cans in bathrooms are sometimes left unemptied for several days.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Tionesta Creek and Tionesta Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, tubing, and kayaking.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include muddy campsites, lack of quiet hour enforcement, water pressure issues, and outdated shower facilities.
HostCampground hosts are mentioned as being friendly and responsive, with some exceptions noted in user reviews.
Campground Map
TIONESTA LAKE PO BOX 539
Driving directionsFrom Tionesta, PA: Go 0.5 mile south on SR 36 and follow signs into the campground.
The campground is accessible via SR 36. Roads leading to the campground are paved and well-marked, though some reviews mention difficulty with signage, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.Nearby places
Tionesta (0.5 miles, 5 minutes), Oil City (approx. 30 miles, 40 minutes), Allegheny National Forest (approx. 15 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
A small general store is located approximately 5 minutes away from the campground, offering basic supplies such as firewood and ice.
Camper Reviews
4.3
346 reviews
Tionesta Rec. Area Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the beauty and cleanliness of the campground but note issues with maintenance, noise, and inconsistent rule enforcement. The campground is praised for its full hookups and accessibility to water activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 346 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include full hookups, scenic trails, opportunities for fishing and kayaking, and spacious campsites. Reviews like 'Sites are clean and well maintained' and 'Great place to relax and...
Based on 346 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints frequently involve outdated facilities, noise from barking dogs, and lack of enforcement on quiet hours. Some reviewers reported plumbing issues and muddy sites.
Based on 346 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs for noise, plan ahead for cell service limitations, and choose sites near the creek for scenic views. Reviews recommend visiting the Bear Claw Cafe and the local lighthouse.
Based on 346 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are most popular, but some users expressed a wish for the campground to stay open later into the fall. Rainy weather occasionally impacts site conditions and activities.
Based on 346 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The view of Tionesta Creek was beautiful.' 2. 'The sites are all pea-graveled and crowned, yet level.' 3. 'Full hookups at all sites, I think.'
Based on 346 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Certain sites, like 50 and 66, received negative feedback due to poor maintenance and electrical issues. Sites 45 and 40 were praised for accessibility and scenic views.
Based on 346 reviewsAccessibility Features
Sites 69 and 71 are reserved for accessible camping. Complaints included poor maintenance of accessible facilities.
Based on 346 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Many reviews highlight the pet-friendly nature of the campground, though some express concern about leash rule enforcement and noise from barking dogs.
Based on 346 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025