Kelly Pines

For those of us in Pennsylvania, escaping to the woods is a rite of passage, and few places capture the spirit of our state's wilderness like the vast expanse of the Allegheny National Forest. Nestled within this beautiful region, specifically in Jenks Township, is a unique destination for nature lovers: Kelly Pines Campground. This is not your typical RV park; it’s a focused, rustic, and incredibly special spot that serves as the premier hub for the region’s equestrian community.

Kelly Pines Campground offers an unforgettable experience for riders and non-riders alike who seek a genuine connection with the forest. It stands out in the Pennsylvania camping landscape because of its direct and dedicated support for horse camping, making it a dream destination for anyone who enjoys trail riding in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors. Established back in 1928, it holds a bit of history as one of the first recorded recreation sites in the Allegheny National Forest, giving it a legacy of welcoming outdoor enthusiasts for generations.

The entire atmosphere at Kelly Pines is defined by its pristine natural setting. You are fully immersed in the sights and sounds of the forest, located alongside a stream, Wolf Run, which is known as a native trout stream. The environment is spacious, quiet, and shaded by forest vegetation, including some truly impressive 300+ year old white pine trees. It is a place designed for adventurers—those who want to pack a saddlebag, cast a line, or simply wake up to the quiet serenity of a Pennsylvania forest morning. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian looking to hit the trails or an angler hoping for an early catch, Kelly Pines offers a distinct slice of Pennsylvania's wilderness waiting to be explored.

Kelly Pines Campground is located deep within the Allegheny National Forest in the north-central part of Pennsylvania, falling within Jenks Township. This location places it near the town of Marienville, offering access to thousands of acres of protected woodland. For navigation, the official address is:

Jenks Township, PA 16239, USA

Specific directions are generally provided by the U.S. Forest Service, often involving taking Forest Road (FR) 130 to FR 131 N from Marienville. As a National Forest campground, access is generally straightforward via forest service roads, but it is important to be prepared for rural driving conditions.

• RV and Trailer Guidance: Visitors should be aware that the entry road and bridge leading into Kelly Pines Campground are generally not suitable for trailers or RVs that are over 40-50 feet in length due to a sharp curve before crossing the entrance bridge. It is essential to check the latest length restrictions on the official Allegheny National Forest website before arrival.
• Day-Use Parking: A designated turn-around circle in the center of the camp is available for day-use parking, making it easy for riders or hikers to stage their excursions onto the trails without an overnight stay.

The campground’s remote location is a major part of its appeal, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in Pittsburgh, Erie, or Philadelphia. It is accessible for drive-in camping, perfect for those exploring Pennsylvania’s vast State Game Lands and National Forest areas.

Kelly Pines offers a more primitive, rustic camping experience, emphasizing natural surroundings over modern amenities. The focus is squarely on supporting equestrian activities, providing specialized infrastructure for horses alongside standard camping facilities.

On-site services and facilities include:

• Campsites with Horse Stalls: The majority of sites are dedicated to equestrians and feature specialized infrastructure. Each single equestrian site includes a 4-horse tie-down shelter with a gravel base and rubber matting for the safety and comfort of your animal.
• Vault Toilet: A vault toilet is provided for public use, ensuring basic sanitation is available on-site.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is available from an artisan well or hand pump. It is important to note that, while the water is potable, campers should always check current conditions and may wish to bring additional drinking water.
• Camp Furniture: Every site, whether equestrian or non-equestrian, comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and warmth.
• Manure Management: For equestrian users, a dedicated manure bin is available for proper disposal of horse waste, helping to keep the campground clean and sanitary.
• Livestock Watering: There is a designated, safe location along the stream for watering horses.

It is important to remember that Kelly Pines does not offer modern comforts such as electric, water, or sewer hookups, showers, or pressurized flush toilets. This is true primitive camping designed for self-sufficiency.

Kelly Pines Campground’s unique features make it a must-visit for specific types of outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania.

• The Spring Creek Horse Trail Hub: This campground is the designated start and end point for the 38-mile Spring Creek Horse Trail system. This network of marked trails winds through the forest, offering incredible riding opportunities for a multi-day equestrian adventure.
• Dedicated Equestrian Facilities: Unlike multi-use campgrounds that simply tolerate horses, Kelly Pines is built for them. The provided tie-down shelters at each equestrian site are a rare and valuable feature, ensuring horses are secured and protected overnight.
• Non-Equestrian Sites: While specialized, the campground reserves two sites (sites 1 and 2) for non-equestrian users, making it an excellent, quiet spot for tent campers or anglers who wish to be near the Wolf Run trout stream, especially during trout season.
• Secluded Forest Setting: The location provides a tranquil, shaded retreat. Campers are surrounded by native hardwoods and conifers, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and enjoying the rugged beauty of the Allegheny Mountains.
• Historical Significance: Kelly Pines is one of the oldest recreation areas within the Allegheny National Forest, carrying a long tradition of welcoming visitors to Pennsylvania's public lands.

As a U.S. Forest Service facility, the best resource for up-to-date information, operating seasons, fees, and current trail conditions is the local Ranger District office. Reservations are typically managed through a federal reservation system.

• Address: Jenks Township, PA 16239, USA (Within Allegheny National Forest)
• Managing Office: Marienville Ranger District Office, 131 Smokey Lane, Marienville, PA 16239
• Office Phone: (814) 927-6628 (Marienville Ranger District)
• Reservations: Reservations for peak season (typically mid-May to late October) can be made online through Recreation.gov. It is wise to book early, particularly for the popular equestrian sites.

Kelly Pines Campground is worth choosing if you are a horse enthusiast looking to explore a major Pennsylvania trail system. It is truly a one-of-a-kind destination in the commonwealth, offering purpose-built amenities for your equine partner. If you want to ride a loop on the 38-mile Spring Creek Horse Trail and return to a secure stall, Kelly Pines is the ultimate base camp.

It is also an excellent choice for non-equestrian campers who prioritize a quiet, rustic, and forested experience over creature comforts like electricity and flush toilets. Its proximity to the native trout stream and the deep woods ensures a classic, primitive Pennsylvania camping experience. Choose Kelly Pines for the trail riding, the old-growth pines, and the deep, refreshing solitude of the Allegheny National Forest.

Kelly Pines

Jenks Township, PA 16239, USA