Bear Run Campground

### Introduction / Overview

For Pennsylvania families seeking an outstanding outdoor escape, Bear Run Campground in Portersville consistently emerges as a top choice. This 300-site, full-service camping park is nestled into the beautiful Western Pennsylvania countryside, providing an ideal setting for both serene relaxation and exciting family adventures. It's more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant community where countless cherished memories are made, often year after year, as guests immerse themselves in the "Bear Run Family Camping Tradition."

Bear Run Campground prides itself on being a well-kept, clean, and amenity-rich destination that caters to diverse camping styles. Whether you're looking for a fully-equipped RV site, a cozy cabin, or a more traditional tent camping experience, you'll find a spot that suits your needs. The campground's commitment to guest satisfaction is evident in its friendly staff and the wide array of activities and features designed to keep everyone entertained, regardless of age. From splashing in the heated pool to enjoying organized events and a well-stocked general store, Bear Run strives to make every stay convenient and enjoyable.

Its strategic location, bordering Moraine State Park and offering direct access to Lake Arthur, further enhances its appeal, providing endless opportunities for outdoor recreation right at your fingertips. For Pennsylvanians looking for a reliable, fun, and comprehensive camping experience without having to travel far, Bear Run Campground offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and engaging activities.

### Location and Accessibility

Bear Run Campground is conveniently located at 184 Badger Hill Rd, Portersville, PA 16051, USA, placing it in the heart of Western Pennsylvania's beautiful Butler County. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for Pennsylvania residents, making it a feasible destination for weekend getaways or longer vacations from various parts of the state. The campground is easily reachable via Interstate 79, just off Exit 96. From I-79 (Exit 96) and Highway 488, you go approximately 50 yards east on Highway 488, then turn left onto Badger Hill Road for about half a mile to reach the campground entrance. This straightforward access means less time navigating and more time enjoying your camping experience.

One of Bear Run Campground's most compelling features is its direct border with Moraine State Park and close proximity to Lake Arthur. This adjacency provides campers with immediate access to a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and various water sports on the lake. The campground also offers convenient lake access, with Porters Cove Launch just 900 yards from the entrance, allowing for easy launching of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. This exceptional blend of easy highway access and direct connection to a vast natural playground makes Bear Run Campground an ideal and highly convenient choice for Pennsylvanians seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

### Services Offered

• Diverse Campsite Options: Bear Run Campground offers a wide variety of camping options to suit every preference. These include full hook-up RV sites (50/30 amp electric, water, sewer), water and electric sites for smaller RVs and pop-ups, and primitive tent sites. They also feature "Big Rig" pull-through full hook-up RV sites that can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet, ensuring convenience for larger rigs. Some sites are paved for added comfort.

• Cabin Rentals: For those who prefer a more comfortable "glamping" experience, Bear Run Campground offers a selection of rental cabins. These range from basic to deluxe, with some options including air conditioning and separate living/sleeping spaces. There are also pet-friendly cabin options available.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Well-maintained bathhouses with restrooms and showers are available throughout the campground, ensuring comfort and cleanliness for all guests.

• General Store: A "great general store" is on-site, offering a wide array of items you might need or have forgotten, including groceries, camping supplies, ice, firewood, and snacks. This eliminates the need for frequent trips outside the campground for essentials.

• Laundry Facilities: For extended stays or just freshening up, coin-operated laundry facilities are provided.

• LP Gas: Propane (LP gas) is available for purchase, either metered or by bottle exchange/bottles only.

• Wi-Fi Access: Wi-Fi is available throughout the park, with specific sites offering stronger signals, allowing guests to stay connected during their stay.

• RV Services: The campground offers a dump station, self-service RV wash, and even on-site RV service, catering to the specific needs of RV campers.

• Pet-Friendly: Bear Run Campground welcomes pets at most campsites and in designated pet-friendly cabins, though some breed restrictions may apply. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required.

• Communal Fireplace: A communal fireplace provides a cozy gathering spot for campers to share stories and relax.

### Features / Highlights

• Heated Swimming Pool: A standout feature is the heated swimming pool, a fantastic amenity for cooling off and having fun, especially during the warmer months. As one reviewer noted, it's a "great swimming pool" for all ages.

• Playground: For younger campers, an "awesome playground" provides a safe and engaging space for endless fun and making new friends.

• Kids' Gem Mine: A unique attraction, the kids' gem mine offers an exciting activity where children can sift for and discover various gems and fossils, a truly memorable experience.

• Stocked Fishing Pond: The campground features a stocked fishing pond, perfect for anglers of all skill levels to enjoy a relaxing day of fishing. Nearby Lake Arthur also offers fantastic fishing opportunities.

• Direct Lake Access and Rentals: With direct access to Lake Arthur (via Porters Cove Launch), guests can easily enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The campground conveniently offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals.

• Organized Activities and Themed Weekends: Bear Run Campground is well-known for its extensive schedule of organized activities and themed weekends throughout the camping season. These can include everything from live music and holiday celebrations to specific events like "Christmas in July" or "Halloween" weekends with trick-or-treating and site decorating contests. They even feature unique experiences like "Breakfast at the main building," which one reviewer specifically highlighted as being "so good!"

• Sports Courts: The campground offers various sports facilities including a volleyball court, paved basketball court (some covered), and horseshoe pits, encouraging active fun and friendly competition.

• Arcade & Game Room: An indoor arcade and game room with a pool table provide entertainment options, especially useful on rainy days or in the evenings.

• Nature Walks and Bird Watching: For those who appreciate the natural surroundings, dedicated nature walks offer a chance to explore the beautiful Butler County landscape and observe various bird species, including herons, ospreys, and even bald eagles.

• Community Feel: While some sites may be close, many campers appreciate the "community feel" and friendly atmosphere, where other residents are welcoming and everyone seems to be having a wonderful time.

### Promotions or Special Offers

Bear Run Campground is known for offering a variety of promotions and special deals to enhance the camping experience for Pennsylvania locals. These offers are dynamic and often change seasonally, so it's always advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information. Here are examples of promotions they commonly feature:

• Extended Stay Deals: They frequently offer discounts for longer stays, such as:

  • "3-Night Deal": Get 15% off your vacation when you stay 3 nights (often valid for Sun, Mon, or Tue check-ins).
  • "4-Night Deal": Receive 25% off weeknights when booking a 4-night stay.
  • "5-Night Deal": Enjoy 30% off weeknights for a 5-night stay.
  • "7-Night Deal": Book a consecutive 7-night (or more) stay and get 35% off your entire stay on both cabins and campsites.
  These extended stay offers are excellent for maximizing your vacation value.

• "Extend The Fun" Deals: These popular promotions allow campers to add a Thursday or Sunday night to their weekend stay at a reduced rate, often 50% off or a set discount like $25 off the extra night. This extends your weekend fun without a full-price commitment.

• Military Discount: Bear Run Campground shows its appreciation for active duty and retired military service members by offering a 10% discount on weekday stays (Sunday-Thursday) throughout the season.

• First Responder Discount: Active firefighters, police, EMTs, and nurses can also receive a 10% discount, typically for weekday stays.

• Senior (65+) Discount: A 10% discount is often available for guests aged 65 and older.

• Bundled Savings: Some promotions include additional discounts on popular rentals like golf carts or pool cabanas when booked with a qualifying multi-night deal.

• Seasonal Camping: For those looking for a "home away from home" throughout the warmer months, Bear Run offers seasonal camping options with spacious, well-maintained sites and access to their full calendar of events.

• Special Event-Related Offers: Keep an eye out for unique deals tied to their themed weekends and special events, which might include specific activity packages or discounted rates for participation.

It's important to remember that these promotions often have specific terms, such as limited availability, exclusions for holiday weekends, and cannot always be combined with other discounts. Always confirm details directly with the campground.

### Contact Information

To learn more about Bear Run Campground, inquire about availability, or make a reservation for your next Pennsylvania camping adventure, you can reach them through the following contact details:

• Address: 184 Badger Hill Rd, Portersville, PA 16051, USA

• Phone: (724) 368-3564

• Mobile Phone: +1 724-368-3564

For the most up-to-date information, including seasonal operating dates (typically April 15 - October 30), it is always best to contact the campground directly or visit their official website.

### Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvania residents, Bear Run Campground in Portersville offers an ideal blend of convenience, comprehensive amenities, and a vibrant community atmosphere that makes it a highly suitable choice for any camping trip. Its accessible location just off Interstate 79 means less travel time and more time enjoying your getaway, whether you're coming from Pittsburgh or other parts of the state.

The campground’s diverse range of camping options, from spacious RV sites with full hook-ups to secluded primitive tent spots, ensures that every type of camper finds their perfect fit. Families, in particular, will appreciate the wealth of on-site activities and features. The heated pool, playground, and unique kids' gem mine provide endless entertainment, while the organized events and themed weekends—like the highly praised "breakfast at the main building"—add a special touch that creates lasting memories. As one reviewer enthusiastically stated, "The whole area is really nice and well kept, great general store in case you forgot anything, they have some events too. There's a playground for kids and great swimming pool too. We'll definitely be back."

Furthermore, Bear Run Campground's direct border with Moraine State Park and easy access to Lake Arthur opens up a world of outdoor exploration. Locals can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, boating, and swimming, all just moments from their campsite. While some sites might offer a more communal feel, this can be a positive for those seeking a friendly, engaging environment. The staff's dedication to guest satisfaction and the overall well-maintained nature of the facilities consistently contribute to a positive experience. Ultimately, Bear Run Campground provides Pennsylvanians with a fantastic opportunity to embrace the outdoor lifestyle, enjoy quality family time, and make unforgettable memories, all within the beautiful landscape of our home state.

Bear Run Campground

184 Badger Hill Rd, Portersville, PA 16051, USA