Folly's End Campground

Are you a Pennsylvanian longing for a tranquil escape into nature, where the sounds of a flowing creek replace the city's hustle and bustle? Folly's End Campground in Girard, PA, offers just that – a serene and welcoming retreat perfect for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind amidst the natural beauty of northwestern Pennsylvania. This hidden gem provides a genuine camping experience, whether you arrive in an RV, with a tent, or seek a peaceful spot for a seasonal stay.

Nestled alongside Elk Creek, one of Pennsylvania’s most significant Lake Erie tributaries, Folly's End Campground truly lives up to its promise of isolation in a scenic setting. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the creek, spending your days fishing for steelhead, or exploring picturesque hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls. This campground isn't just about parking your camper; it's about immersing yourself in an authentic outdoor adventure while enjoying the comforts of well-maintained facilities and a friendly community atmosphere.

For many local residents of Pennsylvania, finding a campground that genuinely welcomes all types of campers, from large RVs to humble tents, can be a challenge. Folly's End Campground prides itself on being inclusive, embracing every visitor with the same warm hospitality. This welcoming attitude, combined with the reasonable pricing, makes it an attractive option for a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a place where the focus is on creating a pleasurable experience for everyone, ensuring that your time spent connecting with nature is both comfortable and memorable.

The beauty of Folly's End lies in its natural surroundings. Situated about 100 feet down in the picturesque creek gorge, the campground boasts an abundance of natural wonders. From the impressive waterfalls to the challenging 1.5-mile loop hiking trail, there are plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure right within the campground’s boundaries. For those who enjoy fishing, the half-mile frontage on Elk Creek offers excellent opportunities, particularly for steelhead fishing from September through April, solidifying its reputation among anglers.

Beyond the natural allure, Folly's End Campground understands the importance of providing essential amenities that enhance the camping experience. Clean restrooms and showers, a recreational room, and a playground are just a few of the conveniences that make a stay here enjoyable for families. The presence of a full-line Fly and Tackle Shop on-site is an added bonus, ensuring that anglers have access to all the necessary gear and supplies, alongside general camping necessities like firewood and ice.

What truly sets Folly's End apart, as highlighted by satisfied customers, is the friendly and helpful staff. From the moment you arrive, you’ll likely be greeted by a courteous team ready to provide all the information you need for a comfortable stay. This personal touch fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere, contributing significantly to a "very pleasurable experience" for many visitors. It’s this combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and genuine hospitality that makes Folly's End Campground a highly recommended destination for Pennsylvanians seeking a genuine outdoor escape.

Location and Accessibility

Folly's End Campground is conveniently located at 8600 PA-98, Girard, PA 16417, USA. This prime location places it just two miles off Interstate 90 at Pennsylvania Exit 16 (Route 98), making it incredibly accessible for campers traveling from various parts of Pennsylvania and neighboring states. Its proximity to a major interstate highway ensures a smooth and easy journey, whether you're driving an RV, towing a trailer, or heading out for a tent camping adventure.

Girard, Pennsylvania, itself is a charming community in Erie County, offering a peaceful setting while remaining close to the attractions and conveniences of the greater Erie area. This balance means campers at Folly's End can enjoy the tranquility of a natural retreat and still have easy access to grocery stores, gas stations, and other essential services. Moreover, the campground's strategic position makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions such as Lake Erie, Presque Isle State Park, and the city of Erie itself, which are just a short drive away. This perfect blend of secluded nature and convenient access solidifies Folly's End Campground as a top choice for locals looking to explore the beautiful northwestern region of the state.

Services Offered

• RV Sites: Options include full hook-ups (water, electric, sewer) and partial hook-ups (water and electric) with 20, 30, and 50 Amp service.
• Tent Sites: Welcomes tent campers with designated sites.
• Seasonal Sites: Available for campers looking for a longer-term stay.
• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Well-maintained facilities for guest comfort.
• Dump Station: Convenient for RV and camper waste disposal.
• Pump-Out Service: Available for guests.
• Recreational Room: A communal space for relaxation and activities.
• Spacious Pavilion: Ideal for gatherings and events.
• Ball Field: Provides space for outdoor sports and games.
• Playground: Entertainment for younger campers.
• Half-Mile Frontage on Elk Creek: Offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and exploring the creek.
• Full-Line Fly and Tackle Shop: Stocked with essential camping supplies, firewood, ice, and fishing gear.
• Horseshoe Court: Another outdoor recreational option.
• Basketball: Available for guests.
• Ping Pong: An indoor activity option.
• Live Music: Occasional entertainment may be offered.
• CCTV Security: For enhanced guest safety.

Features / Highlights

• Scenic Location on Elk Creek: Nestled in a picturesque creek gorge with natural beauty including two waterfalls.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Especially known for steelhead fishing from September through April.
• Welcoming to All Campers: Accommodates both RVs and tents, with friendly staff.
• Clean Facilities: Restrooms and showers are consistently noted for their cleanliness.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Visitors consistently praise the "very nice" young man at the office and the generally friendly atmosphere.
• Affordable Pricing: Customers have noted the "price was really good."
• Strong Sense of Community: "Awesome neighbors" contribute to a positive camping experience.
• Hiking Trail: Features a challenging 1.5-mile loop trail for outdoor enthusiasts.

Promotions or Special Offers

Folly's End Campground offers competitive rates designed to provide value for a range of camping preferences. According to their published rates, they often have a special where you can "Camp 6 consecutive nights, get 1 free," which is a great incentive for longer stays. While specific, limited-time promotions might vary, this consistent offer demonstrates their commitment to providing affordable and extended camping opportunities.

For the most up-to-date information on any current discounts, seasonal specials, or loyalty programs, it is highly recommended to contact Folly's End Campground directly or visit their official website. They are the best source for details on daily, weekly, or seasonal rates, and any potential savings that could apply to your upcoming trip.

Contact Information

To plan your refreshing getaway to Folly's End Campground and experience the natural beauty and friendly atmosphere for yourself, use the following contact details:

Address: 8600 PA-98, Girard, PA 16417, USA

Phone: (814) 474-5730

Mobile Phone: +1 814-474-5730

The helpful staff are ready to answer your questions, assist with reservations, and provide any information you need to make your camping experience a memorable one.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For locals across Pennsylvania, Folly's End Campground stands out as an incredibly suitable and appealing destination for a variety of reasons. Firstly, its prime location in Girard, just off Interstate 90, ensures unparalleled accessibility. This means less time spent on the road and more time enjoying your well-deserved break, making it ideal for both quick weekend escapes and longer family vacations without the burden of extensive travel. Its proximity to Erie and its attractions also adds to its appeal, offering options for day trips beyond the campground.

Secondly, the unique blend of a genuine rustic camping experience with essential modern amenities makes it perfect for diverse local preferences. Whether you’re an avid angler drawn to Elk Creek’s famous steelhead fishing, a family seeking a clean playground and ball field, or simply someone desiring a quiet spot to reconnect with nature, Folly's End caters to it all. The fact that it welcomes both RVs and tents, and offers seasonal sites, further broadens its appeal to the varied camping community within Pennsylvania.

Lastly, the consistently positive feedback from visitors regarding the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere truly elevates Folly's End Campground. In a world that can sometimes feel impersonal, finding a place where "people were so friendly" and the office staff is "very nice and gave us all the information we needed" is invaluable. This genuine hospitality, combined with the reasonable pricing and the sheer natural beauty of the creek gorge and its waterfalls, creates a truly pleasurable and suitable camping experience for any Pennsylvanian looking for a memorable outdoor adventure close to home.

Folly's End Campground

8600 PA-98, Girard, PA 16417, USA