Tionesta Recreation Area Campground

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For Pennsylvanians seeking an idyllic escape into the heart of nature, Tionesta Recreation Area Campground offers a truly picturesque and beloved destination. Nestled right along the serene Tionesta Creek and adjacent to the expansive Tionesta Lake, this campground provides the perfect setting to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid boater, a keen angler, a dedicated hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to relax by a campfire, Tionesta Recreation Area Campground has something special for everyone. It's a place where stunning natural beauty, ample recreational opportunities, and a welcoming atmosphere converge to create unforgettable memories right here in our beautiful Pennsylvania.

Tionesta Recreation Area Campground is perfectly situated at Tionesta Lake, Tionesta, PA 16353, USA. This prime location places you in Forest County, a region renowned for its pristine public lands and as one of Pennsylvania's best big game areas. The campground sits just below the Tionesta Dam, offering immediate access to both Tionesta Creek and the expansive Tionesta Lake. Accessibility to the campground is straightforward; from the town of Tionesta, you can travel about 0.5 miles south on SR 36 and follow the signs directly into the campground.

The surrounding area is a gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds, with nearly half of Forest County preserved as public lands. This includes not only Tionesta Lake itself but also portions of the Allegheny National Forest, Cook Forest State Park, Cornplanter and Clear Creek State Forests, and various state game lands. This rich natural tapestry means that visitors have an abundance of outdoor adventures at their fingertips, from scenic drives to extensive hiking trails. While cell service might not be perfect, as noted by past visitors, this actually enhances the experience of disconnecting and immersing yourself in nature. Despite its tranquil setting, the campground is accessible for both RVs and tent campers, making it a convenient destination for a diverse range of Pennsylvanians looking for a refreshing getaway.

Tionesta Recreation Area Campground offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers, whether for a weekend or an extended vacation.

Services Offered:

• Campsites: The campground boasts over 100 sites suitable for both tents and trailers. These sites are typically gravel, equipped with a picnic table, and a fire ring, ideal for outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Full Hookups: Many sites offer full hookups, including electricity (30-amp and 50-amp options), water, and sewer connections, providing maximum convenience for RV and trailer campers.
• Bathhouses: Flush toilets and hot showers are available in multiple bathhouses throughout the campground. While some bathhouses might be older, they provide essential facilities for comfort.
• Dump Station: A readily accessible dump station is provided for RV and trailer waste disposal.
• Paved Roads: The internal roads within the campground are paved, making it easy to navigate, whether by vehicle or bicycle.
• Potable Water: Drinking water spigots are located throughout the campground for easy access.
• On-site Firewood: Often, firewood is available for purchase within the campground, ensuring you have what you need for a cozy campfire.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome, though specific rules regarding leashing and waste disposal should be followed.
• Reservations: Campsites at Tionesta Recreation Area Campground (managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) can be reserved in advance through the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS), either by phone or online via Recreation.gov. Reservations can typically be made up to six months prior to arrival, especially advisable for peak season.

Tionesta Recreation Area Campground is celebrated for a variety of features and highlights that consistently draw Pennsylvanians back season after season.

• Stunning Natural Beauty: The campground is described as "very beautiful," situated directly along the picturesque Tionesta Creek with many sites offering immediate creekside access or being just a few yards away. The surrounding forested area, particularly below the Tionesta Dam, provides a lush, shaded environment.
• Variety of Sites: Campers appreciate the diversity of sites available; some offer more seclusion, while others are perfect for groups traveling together, allowing for flexible camping experiences.
• Abundant Water Activities: Tionesta Lake is a hub for water sports. Campers can enjoy boating, fishing (known for productive waters with trout, muskie, walleye, bass, and panfish), swimming (at the beach area near the campground entrance), water skiing, and tubing. Easy access to boat launches near both ends of the lake is a significant advantage.
• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: The paved roads within the campground are ideal for bike riding, and numerous hiking trails are accessible nearby, including opportunities to explore the vast Allegheny National Forest.
• Wildlife Viewing: Forest County is known for its remarkable variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse, turkey, and bear, offering fantastic opportunities for nature observation.
• Disconnect and Recharge: The often-limited cell service is viewed as a positive feature by many, encouraging campers to "disconnect from the world and spend time talking and playing games," fostering genuine connection and relaxation.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of a playground makes this a great destination for families with children.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, with some even featuring multi-tiered grates, enhancing the outdoor dining and campfire experience.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Reviewers consistently praise the campground's overall beauty and maintenance.
• Managed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: This management typically ensures well-maintained facilities and adherence to established recreational guidelines.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tionesta Recreation Area Campground operates under federal guidelines and typically doesn't offer the kind of promotional deals found at private campgrounds. However, there are ways Pennsylvanians can make their visit more economical or take advantage of specific programs.

• Federal Passes: For frequent visitors to federal recreation sites, the "America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass" system can offer value. While this typically covers entrance fees, holders of certain passes (like the Senior Pass or Access Pass) may receive discounts on camping fees at federal campgrounds, including those managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. It is always wise to inquire about applicable discounts upon booking or check-in.
• Reservations via Recreation.gov: While not a discount, the ability to reserve sites up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov (or by calling their toll-free number) ensures you secure your desired spot, particularly during peak seasons, which is a valuable "offer" in itself for popular campgrounds.
• Life Jacket Loaner Program: Tionesta Lake participates in the Boat/U.S. Foundation for Boating Safety's Life Jacket Loaner Program for kids. This allows boaters to borrow properly sized life jackets for children under 13 for the day, promoting safety without an extra cost.

For specific pricing and any current offers, it's always recommended to visit Recreation.gov or contact the campground directly as rates are subject to change.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Tionesta Recreation Area Campground, you can use the following contact information:

Address: Tionesta Lake, Tionesta, PA 16353, USA

Phone: (814) 755-3512

Mobile Phone: +1 814-755-3512

For reservations: Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777

For Pennsylvanians, Tionesta Recreation Area Campground is an ideal local choice for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Its location right on Tionesta Creek and Lake provides unparalleled opportunities for water recreation, from fishing to boating and swimming, all within easy reach. The abundance of full hookup sites, combined with amenities like clean bathhouses and paved roads, ensures a comfortable stay for RVers and tent campers alike. What truly sets it apart for locals is its ability to offer a genuine sense of escape and connection with nature – a chance to "disconnect from the world" and embrace quality time with loved ones amidst the stunning backdrop of the Pennsylvania Wilds. Whether you're looking for an active adventure filled with hiking and water sports or a peaceful retreat to simply enjoy the sounds of the forest, Tionesta Recreation Area Campground delivers. It's a consistently favorite spot for many in our state, offering a welcoming atmosphere and a wealth of natural beauty that keeps campers returning season after season, right here in our beautiful backyard.

Tionesta Recreation Area Campground

Tionesta Lake, Tionesta, PA 16353, USA