Benezett Store Campground

For Pennsylvanians eager to immerse themselves in one of the state's most remarkable natural phenomena – the majestic elk herd – Benezett Store Campground offers an unparalleled camping experience. Located in the very heart of Pennsylvania's Elk Country, this campground provides more than just a place to stay; it’s a direct gateway to wildlife viewing, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable moments under wide-open skies. Whether you're an avid elk enthusiast, a family looking for a unique nature experience, or a traveler seeking a peaceful retreat, Benezett Store Campground places you right in the middle of it all.

Operating under new ownership in recent years, Benezett Store Campground has seen significant improvements, with many visitors noting its enhanced cleanliness and overall well-maintained appearance. This dedication ensures a comfortable and welcoming environment for all guests. Imagine spacious sites, offering ample room for relaxation and privacy, with the added bonus of often having elk and other wildlife roaming directly through the property. The clear, open skies provide an incredible canvas for stargazing, a truly spectacular experience unique to this part of Pennsylvania.

While one past review mentioned issues with showers and reservation policies, the recent shift in ownership and subsequent positive feedback emphasize a renewed commitment to guest satisfaction and facility upkeep. The Benezett Store and Campground is praised for its prime location – adjacent to Winslow Hill Road, known as a premier elk viewing spot – making it an ideal base for your wildlife adventures. This combination of a fantastic location, recent improvements, and the constant allure of the elk makes it a compelling choice for any Pennsylvanian looking to explore our state's wild heart.

Benezett Store Campground is strategically located at 9682 PA-555, Benezette, PA 15821, USA. This address places it squarely within the epicenter of Pennsylvania's elk range, making it arguably one of the most desirable camping locations for those hoping to witness the majestic elk herd. The campground is situated on PA-555, a state route that winds through the beautiful Elk Country, providing a scenic drive to and from the site.

Perhaps its most significant locational advantage is its proximity to the Elk Country Visitor Center and Winslow Hill Road. The campground itself borders Winslow Hill Road, which is widely recognized as one of the best spots to view elk, especially during dawn and dusk. This means campers can literally step out of their tents or RVs and often see elk right on or near the property, a truly unique experience. Despite its immersive wilderness feel, Benezette is a small, welcoming community, and the campground's presence along a main state road ensures relatively easy access for vehicles of all sizes. For Pennsylvanians, this means a manageable drive to a destination that promises unparalleled wildlife encounters and a deep dive into the natural beauty of the PA Wilds region.

Benezett Store Campground offers a variety of services designed to provide a comfortable and convenient stay, particularly for those focused on elk viewing and outdoor activities:

• Diverse Campsites: The campground offers sites that can accommodate a range of camping setups, including primitive tent camping and RV camping. Sites are described as spacious and open, providing room for campers of all sizes.
• RV Hookups: For RVs, the campground provides 50 amp electric service. While not all sites may have direct sewer hookups, there is often a system in place for waste disposal, such as the need for a portable holding tank/tote (which may be available for use on-site). Water is also available and is noted to be filtered and water softened.
• Campfire Rings & Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a campfire ring, perfect for evening fires and cooking, and a picnic table for outdoor dining and gathering.
• Trash Receptacle: A trash receptacle is available on-site for convenient waste disposal.
• Restrooms & Showers: While past reviews have been mixed, current information suggests an effort towards cleanliness and maintenance of bathhouses and showers. It is important to note that cleanliness can fluctuate.
• Access to Trails: The property allows direct access to nearby township roads for licensed and insured motorized vehicles like ATVs, side-by-side UTVs, and motorcycles, providing a base for off-road exploration. There are also numerous hiking trails and even horseback riding trails in the vicinity (though hoofed animals must be trailered when not riding).
• Camp Store (Benezett Store): The "Benezett Store" itself is a significant amenity, offering groceries, camping needs, and potentially hunting and fishing licenses. It acts as a central hub for supplies and information. Some sources also mention a full-menu restaurant at the store, open daily from 6 am to 9 pm.
• Elk Sighting Information: As the name implies, the store often provides up-to-date information on elk sightings, which is invaluable for visitors.

Benezett Store Campground's most compelling features and highlights are directly tied to its unique location and the unparalleled opportunities it offers:

• Prime Elk Viewing Location: This is the absolute top highlight. The campground is situated directly across from the Elk Country Visitor Center and borders Winslow Hill Road, a renowned spot for observing Pennsylvania's elk herd. Guests frequently report seeing elk and other wildlife (like bobcats, bald eagles, and coyotes) roaming through the property, even bedding down nearby. This direct, effortless access to elk viewing is a major draw.
• Spacious & Open Sites: The campsites are described as spacious and open, offering good room for campers and unobstructed views of the sky for stargazing and elk spotting.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Given its location in the PA Wilds, an area known for its low light pollution, the campground offers incredible opportunities for stargazing, with clear, open skies providing majestic views of the night sky.
• Access to ATV & Hiking Trails: The property provides access to nearby township roads suitable for licensed ATVs/UTVs, connecting to a network of trails for off-road enthusiasts. Additionally, numerous hiking and horseback riding trails are in the surrounding area, catering to diverse outdoor interests.
• New Ownership & Improvements: Recent changes in ownership have led to positive transformations, with many noting the campground is now "very clean, well maintained." This commitment to improvement enhances the overall guest experience.
• On-Site Store & Restaurant: The convenience of the Benezett Store and a full-menu restaurant on-site is a significant highlight, providing easy access to supplies, food, and local information without needing to leave the area.
• Wildlife Abundance: Beyond the elk, the surrounding natural environment means frequent sightings of various other wildlife, enriching the outdoor experience.
• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions to enjoy the wilderness (though specific rules for hoofed animals apply if you happen to bring one).

Specific, formal "promotions" like discount codes are not widely advertised for Benezett Store Campground, as is often the case with smaller, privately-owned campgrounds. However, their pricing structure itself offers good value, particularly given the unique location:

• Affordable Rates: Camping at Benezett Store Campground can cost between $30.00 and $40.00 per night, depending on the site. Primitive tenting starts around $25.00 per night, and tents with electric hookups around $30.00. They also offer rates for overnight rooms. This pricing is quite reasonable for a location in the heart of a major wildlife viewing area.
• Seasonal Availability: While not a promotion, understanding their operating season is key. The campground and store are open daily, with the store itself operating from 6 am to 9 pm, providing consistent access to services.
• Value of Location: The primary "special offer" is the unparalleled access to elk viewing and the general wildlife experience that comes with camping directly in Benezette. This natural amenity often outweighs the need for traditional discounts.

It's always best practice to contact Benezett Store Campground directly via phone to inquire about the most current rates, any unadvertised specials, or specific availability, especially for popular elk rutting season weekends.

For reservations, current information on site availability, or any specific questions about Benezett Store Campground and its offerings, please use the following contact details:

Address: 9682 PA-555, Benezette, PA 15821, USA

Phone: (814) 787-7456

Mobile Phone: +1 814-787-7456

Given the popularity of Benezette, especially during peak elk viewing seasons (late summer and fall), calling ahead for reservations is highly recommended. The staff can also provide real-time updates on elk activity and local conditions to help you plan the perfect visit.

For Pennsylvanians, Benezett Store Campground offers an absolutely unique and highly suitable opportunity to connect with one of our state's most iconic natural treasures: the elk. Its location in Benezette is not just convenient for many within the commonwealth, but it places you literally at the doorstep of the elk herd, providing an immersive wildlife viewing experience that is unmatched. This makes it an essential local destination for anyone fascinated by these majestic animals or simply seeking a truly memorable outdoor adventure.

The recent improvements under new ownership, focusing on cleanliness and maintenance, contribute significantly to a comfortable stay, ensuring that your focus can remain on the natural wonders around you. Imagine waking up to the sight of elk grazing nearby, spending your days exploring vast trail systems, and your evenings under a blanket of stars – all from a spacious, well-maintained campsite. The on-site store and potential restaurant add a practical layer of convenience, minimizing the need to leave this natural haven.

Whether you're an avid photographer hoping to capture the perfect shot of a bull elk bugling, a family introducing children to Pennsylvania's incredible wildlife, or a couple seeking a peaceful and unique escape into the PA Wilds, Benezett Store Campground provides the perfect base. It’s more than just a campground; it’s a direct ticket to experiencing the heart of Pennsylvania Elk Country, creating lasting memories right here in our own backyard.

Benezett Store Campground

9682 PA-555, Benezette, PA 15821, USA