Morrison Boat Access Campground

Star0
5 reviews
Morrison Boat Access Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Flat rate of $12 per night as mentioned in user reviews. Payment can be made on-site using fee envelopes, pay tube, or through the Recreation.gov...
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Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$12.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$24.00

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About this campground

Escape the crowds and discover Morrison Boat Access Campground, a hidden gem where true wilderness awaits those willing to venture beyond the beaten path. This remote sanctuary, reachable only by boat across the shimmering Allegheny Reservoir or via a challenging 6-7 mile trek through pristine forest, offers the ultimate back-to-basics camping experience. With nothing but vault toilets and nature's grandeur as your companions, this rustic hideaway invites tent campers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the tranquil rhythms of the Pennsylvania wilderness.
Morrison Boat Access Campground caters to primitive and tent campers seeking a remote, natural experience. Accessible only by boat or hiking trail, it is an option for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
Weather and SeasonsMorrison's weather paints a canvas of changing seasons, from crisp spring mornings wrapped in mist to warm summer days perfect for swimming in the reservoir. The campground experiences moderate temperatures throughout the camping season, though savvy visitors know to pack rain gear for those dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the water. Peak camping conditions arrive during those magical weeks when crystal-clear skies stretch endlessly above and the forest floor stays pleasantly dry underfoot. Winter adventurers should prepare for snow-dusted landscapes and temperatures that test your cold-weather camping skills.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the edge of Morrison Bay, this campground offers front-row seats to one of Pennsylvania's most spectacular water-and-forest theaters. Wake to mist rising from the Allegheny Reservoir as the sun crests the forested ridgelines, painting the water in shades of gold and amber. Towering maple trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their broad canopies providing cooling shade during summer days and erupting in fiery colors come autumn. The surrounding hills, cloaked in dense deciduous forest and understory brush, harbor wildlife and hiking opportunities for those eager to explore beyond their campsite.
Geological RegionNestled along the eastern shoreline of the magnificent Allegheny Reservoir, Morrison Campground claims a prime spot where Morrison Bay branches off from the larger Kinzua Bay. This strategic location places campers at the intersection of water and land, where ancient Appalachian foothills meet the reservoir's intricate network of coves and inlets, creating a landscape sculpted by both geological time and human engineering.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThis campground is accessible only via boat or a 6-7 mile hike, limiting accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeIndividual lots are generally larger than average, offering a decent amount of space. One reviewer noted, "The lots were still much larger than average."
Sites PrivacyThe sites provide high levels of privacy due to thick brush separating them. "Lots were still much larger than average, with thick brush between them for privacy," according to a user.
Total Campsites38 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites under large maple trees for shade and privacy. Avoid outer-limit sites due to neglect and overgrown paths.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites under large maple trees offering shade. Sites closer to the outer limits are described as neglected.

Reserving a campsite

Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSpread out layout with overgrown trails between sites. Dense brush offers privacy.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be managed through Recreation.gov mobile app, website, or on-site Scan and Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityVisitors must arrive physically to claim sites. No advance reservations for walk-up; only Scan and Pay or on-site payment.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight the day before check-in) forfeit first-night fees in addition to the $10 cancellation fee. No-show penalties apply.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Morrison Boat Access Campground offers activities that align with its remote and natural setting. Highlights include hiking, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Allegheny Reservoir. The campground provides an excellent setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.
Hiking
The campground is accessible via the Morrison Run Trail, a 6-7 mile hike. Reviews describe the trail as scenic and an integral part of the camping experience.
Boating
The campground is accessible by boat, and its location on the Allegheny Reservoir makes it ideal for canoeing and similar activities. One user mentioned enjoying a canoe camping trip and accessing nearby water features.
Wildlife viewing
The natural, forested setting offers opportunities for wildlife observation. Specific species or viewing areas are not mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires allowed within fire rings. Firewood collection is challenging due to undergrowth and scarcity.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include limited potable water, challenging access due to overgrown trails, and wildlife concerns requiring proper food storage.

Weather forecast

45
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 2%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 93%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 9.7 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Very Light Rain - (2.00% chance)

Slight drizzle possible

Slight rain

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Trash and recyclingThere is no mention of trash or recycling facilities on-site. Campers may need to pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Morrison Bay, part of Kinzua Bay of the Allegheny Reservoir. Excellent water can be obtained near the Morrison Run stream headwaters, requiring a boat ride.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention lack of potable water and neglected sites on the outskirts of the campground. Firewood is difficult to find due to impenetrable undergrowth.

Campground Map

Driving directionsAccessible by boat via the Allegheny Reservoir or by the Morrison Hiking Trail. Closest boat launch is Elijah Run, accessible from Longhouse National Scenic Byway (Forest Road 262).
Accessible only by boat or a 6-7 mile hike-in using the Morrison Run Trail.

Camper Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Morrison Boat Access Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the campground's peaceful and remote location, scenic views of Allegheny Reservoir, and its value for tent campers and hikers. Common themes include the lack of potable water, overgrown trails, and the need for better site maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors highlight the campground's serene environment, private and spacious campsites, and picturesque views. Phrases like "gorgeous view of the Allegheny" and "truly get away" are common.
Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues include the lack of potable water, overgrown trails, and limited firewood availability. One reviewer noted, "Some were comical, with just a site number post on an overgrown trail."
Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water and prepare to search for firewood. A canoe or kayak may be helpful for reaching nearby water sources or collecting firewood.
Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer seem to be the most popular times for visiting. One reviewer mentioned shade from a large maple tree during a hot day, suggesting summer temperatures can be high.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "This nice little place... makes it quite impossible for [RV camping] to happen. Accessible only by boat or hiking trail, you'll only be among other tent campers here." 2. "Numerous nice, level...
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Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campsite under a large maple tree was praised for its shade—a benefit on hot days. Sites closer to the perimeter were noted as less maintained with overgrown trails.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. However, the campground's boat and hike-only access suggests limited accessibility.
Based on 5 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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