Marlowe's Scenic River Campground

For those of us in Pennsylvania who seek an outdoor adventure that combines natural beauty with genuine warmth and exceptional hospitality, Marlowe's Scenic River Campground in Kennerdell, PA, stands out as a true destination. Nestled right on the picturesque banks of the Allegheny River and within the scenic Clear Creek State Forest, this family-owned campground offers more than just a place to stay; it provides an experience. From the moment you arrive, you'll discover a welcoming atmosphere that transforms even a rainy day into an "awesome" memory, a testament to the dedication of the people who run this beloved Pennsylvania gem.

Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is renowned for its idyllic setting, where the soothing sounds of the creek and the majestic Allegheny River create a backdrop for unparalleled relaxation and adventure. Whether you're a seasoned camper with your own RV, a tent enthusiast looking for a cozy spot by the water, or a spontaneous traveler seeking refuge from an unexpected downpour, this campground is designed to accommodate and delight. It's a place where the simple pleasures of the outdoors are amplified by thoughtful amenities and the kind, "sassy and kind" spirit of its staff, making every visit truly memorable.

What truly sets Marlowe's apart is its strong connection to the surrounding natural environment and the myriad of activities it enables. Its direct access to the Allegheny River means that kayaking and floating right back into camp is not just a possibility but a cherished tradition for many. Beyond the water, the proximity to beautiful hiking trails and the scenic Rails to Trails offers endless opportunities for exploration by foot or bike. It's this seamless integration of comfortable camping with abundant outdoor recreation that makes Marlowe's Scenic River Campground a consistent favorite among Pennsylvanians looking for an authentic and engaging natural escape.

This campground has a rich history of welcoming campers, with some families returning for well over a decade, noting its continuous improvements and enduring charm. This longevity and loyalty speak volumes about the quality of the experience and the lasting impression it leaves on visitors. For any Pennsylvanian dreaming of a perfect outdoor getaway where natural beauty, adventure, and heartfelt hospitality converge, Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is undoubtedly a top choice.

Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is strategically located at 1725 Kennerdell Rd, Kennerdell, PA 16374, USA. This address places it in the heart of Venango County, a region in northwestern Pennsylvania celebrated for its rich natural beauty, including vast forests, significant waterways like the Allegheny River, and numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Kennerdell itself is a small, tranquil community that perfectly complements the peaceful atmosphere of the campground.

The accessibility of Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is a significant advantage for Pennsylvanians across the state. Kennerdell Road (PA-2003) is a well-established route, ensuring relatively straightforward navigation for those traveling by car or RV. While the campground is nestled within a serene natural setting, it remains easily reachable, striking a balance between seclusion and convenience. For residents in western and central Pennsylvania, the drive is typically manageable, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips or extended stays without excessive travel time.

A key highlight of its location is its direct proximity to the Allegheny River. This allows campers to "kayak or float along the Allegheny River right to the campground," providing an unparalleled level of convenience for water enthusiasts. Additionally, the campground is situated near beautiful hiking trails and the Rails to Trails, further enhancing its accessibility for various outdoor pursuits. For instance, kayakers can easily drop into the river in nearby Oil City and Franklin and then leisurely float back to their campsite, turning a simple paddle into a seamless adventure.

The rural yet accessible setting also means less traffic congestion and a more relaxed approach to your journey. Ample space for parking is inherent to a campground of this nature, accommodating various sizes of RVs and multiple vehicles for tent campers. This combination of easy access to major transportation arteries and direct connection to prime recreational waterways makes Marlowe's Scenic River Campground a highly attractive and convenient destination for any Pennsylvanian seeking an immersive outdoor experience.

Marlowe's Scenic River Campground offers a comprehensive array of services designed to provide comfort, convenience, and ample opportunities for recreation to all its campers. These services cater to various camping styles and contribute to the campground's reputation for being well-equipped.

• P Tent Campsites: Designated areas for traditional tent camping, often located by the creek or off an inlet from the Allegheny River for a perfect adventure.
• P RV Sites with Full Hookups: Sites equipped with electric, water, sewer hookups, and even cable TV, ensuring a comfortable stay for recreational vehicles.
• P Free Dumping Station: Available for registered campers, adding convenience for RV users.
• P Modern Restrooms and Warm Showers: Highly valued amenities that are clean, modern, and handicap accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.
• P Creekside Snacks (On-site Snack Shop): A convenient on-site store that serves Hershey's Ice Cream, pizzas, subs, and more, perfect for quick meals or treats after a day of activities.
• P Recreation Hall: A dedicated space for communal activities and gatherings, enhancing the social aspect of camping.
• P Fishing Pond: An on-site pond providing immediate fishing opportunities for campers.
• P Winter Storage: A practical service for seasonal campers or those needing off-season storage for their RVs or trailers.
• P Pet-Friendly Environment: Welcoming to pets, allowing furry family members to join in on the camping adventure.

These services collectively ensure that Marlowe's Scenic River Campground provides a comfortable, convenient, and engaging experience for all types of campers, from those seeking rustic tent camping to those desiring full RV amenities.

Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is celebrated for several key features and highlights that consistently earn it high praise and distinguish it as a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Pennsylvania. These attributes contribute significantly to its unique charm and the memorable experiences it offers.

• P Exceptional Hospitality and Friendly Staff: A paramount highlight is the "realist—equal parts sassy and kind" woman at the front desk and the overall "hospitality" experienced by guests. This personal, caring approach from the staff makes visitors feel genuinely welcome and supported, even in challenging situations like a downpour.
• P Prime Location on the Allegheny River: Its direct proximity to and access from the Allegheny River is a major draw. Campers can "drop their kayaks in Oil City and Franklin and float back into camp," making it an unparalleled spot for river adventures. This scenic river access truly defines the "Scenic River" in its name.
• P Beautiful Natural Setting: Nestled within 30 acres of serene wooded land and with Scrubgrass Creek running through it into the Allegheny, the campground offers a "peaceful setting" and "beautiful hiking trails," creating an immersive natural environment.
• P Continuous Improvements: The campground has "improved since we were last there" (over 14 years), with consistent upgrades and maintenance. This commitment to enhancement ensures a continually evolving and high-quality experience for returning guests.
• P Diverse Camping Options: Offering both tent sites (especially "right off the inlet from the Allegheny River") and RV sites with full hookups (electric, water, sewer, and cable TV), the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences.
• P Excellent Amenities: Modern restrooms, warm and handicap-accessible showers, and a convenient on-site "Creekside Snack Shop" (serving ice cream, pizzas, and subs) significantly enhance comfort and convenience.
• P Proximity to Other Outdoor Activities: Beyond the river, the campground is ideal for exploring the "Rails to Trails" by bike and hiking the "breathtaking trails of Clear Creek Forest," offering varied recreational opportunities.
• P Long-Standing Reputation: With some families returning for 14 years and longer, Marlowe's has a strong history and reputation as "the best campground on the Allegheny," indicating consistent quality and guest satisfaction.
• P Pet-Friendly: The welcoming policy towards pets ensures that furry family members can join the outdoor fun, making it an inclusive destination for animal lovers.

These features collectively create a highly desirable and unique camping experience that perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, and genuine care, making Marlowe's Scenic River Campground a standout choice for Pennsylvanians.

While specific, regularly advertised promotions for Marlowe's Scenic River Campground are not detailed in the provided customer reviews, the campground's website (as per search results) indicates clear pricing for various site types and also mentions "Seasonal Sites" which are often a form of promotional offer for long-term stays. Additionally, the anecdote of receiving a "discount" during a rainy arrival suggests a flexible and customer-centric approach to pricing when circumstances allow.

For Pennsylvanians interested in visiting, it is highly recommended to contact Marlowe's Scenic River Campground directly to inquire about any current or upcoming promotions. They may offer:

• P Seasonal Site Rates: Confirmed on their website, these are offered at $1,700 for full hookup sites from April to October, which includes water, electric, sewage, and cable TV. This is a significant promotional value for extended stays.
• P Weekly Rates: Weekly rates are available for tent sites ($180), pop-up sites ($240), and trailer/RV/motorhome sites ($300), offering savings over nightly rates.
• P Off-Peak Season Discounts: While not explicitly stated, many campgrounds offer reduced rates during less busy times of the year (e.g., early spring or late fall) to attract visitors.
• P Group Discounts: For larger parties or organized groups, there might be special rates available.
• P Loyalty Programs: Given the strong base of returning customers, the campground might have informal or formal incentives for repeat visitors.
• P Special Event Pricing: The campground hosts activities like DJs, bands, cornhole tournaments, annual chicken dinners, and trick-or-treating, which might occasionally come with special package deals.

The best way to discover any available promotions or special offers is to call Marlowe's Scenic River Campground directly using the provided phone numbers. A personal conversation with their friendly staff can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to make your stay even more enjoyable and potentially more affordable. Their willingness to offer a discount in challenging weather suggests a good degree of customer service and flexibility.

For all inquiries, reservations, and to learn more about the offerings at Marlowe's Scenic River Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: 1725 Kennerdell Rd, Kennerdell, PA 16374, USA

Phone: (814) 758-1707

Mobile Phone: +1 814-758-1707

Having both a traditional landline and a mobile phone number provides convenient options for reaching the campground directly. It is highly recommended to call ahead before your visit, especially for:

• P Checking site availability, particularly during peak seasons, holidays, or popular kayaking/fishing times.
• P Inquiring about specific site features, such as hookups for RVs, or preferred tent site locations by the creek.
• P Understanding current rates for nightly, weekly, or seasonal stays, and confirming what amenities (like cable TV) are included.
• P Asking about the schedule for recreational activities or any planned events during your stay.
• P Clarifying pet policies if you plan to bring furry companions.
• P Inquiring about group bookings or event hosting possibilities.

A direct conversation with the friendly staff at Marlowe's Scenic River Campground will ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, allowing for a seamless and highly enjoyable camping experience. Their reputation for hospitality suggests they will be more than happy to assist you with any questions.

For Pennsylvanians, Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination, embodying the very essence of what makes outdoor recreation in our state so appealing. Its perfect blend of natural beauty, strategic location, comprehensive amenities, and genuine hospitality makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of locals seeking an authentic and memorable escape.

Firstly, its prime location in Kennerdell, right on the Allegheny River, provides unparalleled access to one of Pennsylvania's most cherished waterways. For kayakers, canoers, and those who enjoy floating, the ability to launch upriver and drift directly back to camp is a significant convenience and a unique highlight. This direct river access, combined with proximity to the Rails to Trails for biking and hiking trails in Clear Creek State Forest, means that outdoor adventure is literally at your doorstep. For any Pennsylvanian passionate about exploring our state's natural landscapes, Marlowe's serves as a perfect base camp.

Secondly, the campground's commitment to exceptional hospitality is a defining characteristic that resonates deeply with locals. The personal touch and evident kindness from the staff create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, transforming visitors into returning guests. This sense of being genuinely cared for, as highlighted by numerous reviews, fosters a strong connection to the place and its people. Supporting a family-owned business that consistently strives for improvement and maintains such high standards of service is something many Pennsylvanians value.

Furthermore, the diverse range of camping options – from cozy tent sites by the creek to RV sites with full hookups and cable TV – ensures that it caters to various preferences and comfort levels. Modern restrooms with hot showers and an on-site snack shop add essential comforts, allowing campers to truly relax after a day of exploration. This blend of rustic charm and convenient amenities strikes an ideal balance, making it accessible and enjoyable for both seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and those newer to camping.

In conclusion, Marlowe's Scenic River Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and community, all infused with genuine Pennsylvanian hospitality. For anyone in our state looking for a consistently excellent and deeply satisfying camping experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty, this Kennerdell gem stands as an ideal choice for creating lasting memories.

Marlowe's Scenic River Campground

1725 Kennerdell Rd, Kennerdell, PA 16374, USA