Hopewell Campground

For Pennsylvanians who truly crave an authentic wilderness experience, a place where the sounds of the forest and water are your only companions, Hopewell Campground in Bradford, PA, presents a compelling opportunity. This isn't a bustling, amenity-rich RV park; rather, it’s a rugged, peaceful haven nestled within the vast Allegheny National Forest, designed for those who embrace self-sufficiency and the profound beauty of nature. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves disconnecting from the everyday and immersing yourself in a tranquil, off-grid environment, Hopewell Campground might just be your next favorite destination.

Hopewell Campground is a small, rustic, and wonderfully secluded camping area situated on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir, just north of Sugar Bay. It's a true "boat-access" or "hike-in" campground, meaning it requires a bit more effort to reach, which in turn preserves its quiet charm and natural integrity. Many campers describe it as an ideal spot for those who appreciate solitude and unspoiled landscapes. One seasoned canoe camper, making it their "third stop on my canoe camping trip," found it to be "the best thus far," specifically noting that "NOBODY was at Hopewell!" This highlights the often-uncrowded nature of the campground, particularly on weekdays, offering a rare sense of peace and isolation. While primitive, the campground does provide essential comforts. The review mentions "Lots of nice sites to choose from," though noting that "the closer to the fringes of the campground, the more neglected the sites," which is common in less-developed areas. Crucially, it's emphasized that there is "NO FRESH WATER AT CAMPGROUND! The well is capped off," a vital piece of information for planning. However, the unexpected boon of finding "a lot of firewood at one of the sites" indicates the camaraderie and helpful spirit often found among respectful wilderness campers. Hopewell Campground is a testament to simple, unadorned outdoor living, where the primary draw is the untouched natural environment and the tranquility it offers.

Hopewell Campground is deeply embedded within the Allegheny National Forest, near Bradford, PA 16701, USA. Its remote location on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir is key to its secluded character. Unlike conventional campgrounds with direct road access to individual sites, Hopewell is uniquely accessible. It’s primarily reached by boat via the Allegheny Reservoir or by embarking on a hike along the North Country National Scenic Trail, which connects to the Tracy Ridge Trail System. The closest boat launches are Roper Hollow, situated directly across the reservoir on the west bank, or Kinzua Wolf Run Marina, approximately 5 miles south near State Route 59 at the Morrison Bridge. This distinctive accessibility means that the journey to Hopewell is part of the adventure. It naturally filters out casual visitors, attracting those who are genuinely prepared for a more immersive wilderness experience. For Pennsylvanians who own a boat or love backpacking, this presents an exciting opportunity to explore a less-traveled part of the state's magnificent forest. While the Bradford address provides a general geographical anchor, visitors should plan their route meticulously, potentially utilizing detailed topographical maps or GPS, especially if hiking in. The reward for this effort is a pristine and tranquil camping experience far removed from the noise and distractions of modern life.

Hopewell Campground, consistent with its rustic and off-grid nature, offers a foundational set of services designed to support a primitive camping experience. The emphasis is on providing necessary basic amenities while encouraging self-reliance and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 20 single-family campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill, providing the essentials for outdoor living and cooking.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are available on-site. While not flush toilets, these are a significant amenity for a primitive campground, offering a more comfortable and hygienic option than truly unimproved sites.
• No Potable Water: It is critically important to note that potable (drinking) water is NOT available at Hopewell Campground. The well is capped off. Campers MUST bring all their own drinking water, or have a reliable method for filtering/treating water from natural sources like the Allegheny Reservoir or nearby streams (though stream water quality may vary, as one reviewer noted).
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. Campers must physically arrive at the campground to claim an available site. Fees, currently $12.00 per site daily, are typically paid via a fee envelope at a self-pay tube or potentially through the Recreation.gov mobile app's Scan and Pay feature where cell service is available.
• Fire Management: Campfires are permitted within the provided fire rings and grills. However, strict adherence to fire safety is required, including fully extinguishing fires when unattended and checking for any fire bans before and during your visit.
• Quiet Hours: To maintain the peaceful environment, quiet hours are observed from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Due to the limited services, campers must be thoroughly prepared with all their supplies, particularly sufficient drinking water, and have a strong understanding of wilderness etiquette.

Hopewell Campground's true appeal lies in its distinctive features, which cater to a specific type of camper seeking solitude, natural beauty, and a robust outdoor experience.

• Allegheny Reservoir Access: The campground's location directly on the east bank of the Allegheny Reservoir is its most prominent feature. This expansive 12,080-acre man-made lake offers superb opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and non-motorized boating, allowing for direct water access from many sites. The views of the "beautiful lake" are consistently praised.
• Boat-In or Hike-In Exclusivity: The fact that Hopewell is primarily accessible only by boat or by hiking the extensive trail network (North Country National Scenic Trail, Tracy Ridge Trail System) means it attracts fewer crowds than roadside campgrounds. This enhances the sense of isolation and tranquility, making it a truly "unbusy" and peaceful spot.
• Backcountry Feel with Basic Amenities: It offers the rugged feel of backcountry camping while still providing the convenience of vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. This balance makes it accessible for those new to primitive camping while satisfying seasoned adventurers.
• Hiking & Backpacking Opportunities: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Allegheny National Forest via the interconnected Tracy Ridge Hiking Trail System. As one reviewer mentioned, it's ideal for a "canoe camping trip" combined with hiking.
• Peaceful & Uncrowded Environment: Reviewers consistently note the quietness and lack of crowds, especially on weekdays. This makes it perfect for nature observation, reflection, and truly escaping the noise of everyday life. The spacious sites contribute to this sense of privacy.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Allegheny National Forest is rich in diverse wildlife. The remote setting of Hopewell offers excellent opportunities for observing various animal species in their natural habitat, from deer to diverse birdlife.
• Leave No Trace Ethos: The campground's reliance on visitors' responsibility ("If you pack it in, pack it out!") fosters a community of respectful and environmentally conscious campers, contributing to the pristine condition of the site.

As a U.S. Forest Service campground operating within the Allegheny National Forest, Hopewell Campground does not participate in commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private business might. Its core "offer" is its consistent, affordable daily camping fee of $12.00 per site, providing exceptional value for a remote, pristine wilderness experience. There are no seasonal discounts, package deals, or loyalty programs. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, emphasizing accessibility over reservation-based incentives. While you won't find traditional sales or bundles, the inherent benefit of accessing a serene, unspoiled natural environment at a low cost is a continuous advantage for campers. Visitors should verify current fees and conditions with the Allegheny National Forest directly, as regulations can change. The true promotion here is the opportunity for an authentic, unadulterated outdoor adventure without the higher costs often associated with more developed camping facilities.

Since Hopewell Campground is a U.S. Forest Service site that operates on a first-come, first-served basis without individual site reservations, there isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself. For all official information, including current conditions, regulations, and any potential alerts, it's best to consult the authoritative source: the USDA Forest Service for the Allegheny National Forest. While a specific phone number for the campground isn't available, here is the address:

• Address: Bradford, PA 16701, USA

For general inquiries about camping in the Allegheny National Forest, including directions to boat launches (like Roper Hollow or Kinzua Wolf Run Marina, which provide access to Hopewell) or information on hiking trails (like the North Country National Scenic Trail and Tracy Ridge Trail System), you can typically contact the Allegheny National Forest Supervisor's Office or the Bradford Ranger District office. Their contact details would be available on the official USDA Forest Service website for the Allegheny National Forest. It's always highly recommended to check their website or call before your trip, especially to confirm conditions and ensure you are prepared for a primitive camping experience, notably the lack of potable water.

For Pennsylvanians seeking a genuine and profound escape into the wilderness, Hopewell Campground stands as an unparalleled choice. Its remote, boat-in or hike-in accessibility means it remains largely untouched, offering a level of tranquility and natural beauty that is increasingly hard to find. For locals, this translates into a unique opportunity to truly disconnect from the urban sprawl and immerse themselves in the Allegheny National Forest's pristine environment without having to travel across the country. While the lack of potable water and reliance on vault toilets signifies a more primitive experience, this very simplicity is its strength, appealing to those who embrace self-reliance and the raw beauty of nature. The low daily fee makes it an incredibly affordable option for extended stays, allowing ample time to explore the reservoir by boat, hike the scenic trails, and simply revel in the quietude. Hopewell is ideal for those who value peace, self-sufficiency, and the raw, unadulterated beauty of Pennsylvania's natural landscapes. It’s a perfect local spot to recharge, connect with the wild, and create truly unforgettable memories in your own backyard.

Hopewell Campground

Bradford, PA 16701, USA