Fishing Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Fishing Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Discover the best fishing campgrounds across Pennsylvania. Wake up to the sound of rushing water and spend your days casting lines in pristine fishing waters. Lake, river, and stream access for every angler.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: Spring through Fall (April-October)

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Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Fishing Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Fishing camping Pennsylvania offers anglers an exceptional blend of pristine mountain streams, expansive lakes, and wild rivers across diverse landscapes from the Allegheny Plateau to the Pocono Mountains. The Keystone State's 121 state parks and vast state forests provide unparalleled access to both warm-water and cold-water fisheries, where largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, trout, muskellunge, and panfish thrive in crystal-clear waters.

Best Time

The prime fishing camping season in Pennsylvania runs from late April through October, with distinct advantages to each period depending on your target species and preferred conditions. Spring (April-May) brings excellent trout fishing as streams are stocked and wild populations become active, with the legendary green drake mayfly hatch at Poe Paddy typically occurring in early June, drawing fly fishing enthusiasts for this spectacular event.

Activity Highlights

  • Direct lake and river access
  • Boat launches and marinas
  • Fish cleaning stations
  • Local fishing guides available


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Fishing Campgrounds in Pennsylvania

Map Key
1
Ole Bull State Park
2
Hills Creek State Park
3
Poe Paddy State Park
4
Sproul State Forest
5
Prince Gallitzin State Park
6
Clear Creek State Park
7
Yellow Creek State Park
8
Kettle Creek State Park
9
Lyman Run State Park
10
Promised Land State Park
11
Canoe Creek State Park
12
Sinnemahoning State Park
13
Raymond B Winter State Park
14
Woodcock Lake Park
15
Cowans Gap State Park
16
Oil Creek State Park
17
Clarion River Campsites
18
Pine Grove Furnace State Park
19
Tuscarora State Forest
20
Handsome Lake Boat Access Campground

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Stream and river fishing for trout, bass, and panfishLake fishing from boats or shore for warm-water speciesFly fishing in mountain streams and during mayfly hatchesKayaking and canoeing to access remote fishing spotsHiking to backcountry streams and wilderness fishing areasWildlife viewing including bald eagles, osprey, and white-tailed deer

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Obtain your Pennsylvania fishing license before arrival through the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website or at licensed vendors, as enforcement is strict and fines substantial for fishing without proper documentation.
  • 2Research specific regulations for your target waters, as many streams have special regulations including catch-and-release sections, fly-fishing-only zones, and varying size and creel limits that differ from statewide rules.
  • 3Pack appropriate gear for Pennsylvania's diverse fisheries: light to medium spinning tackle for lake fishing, 4-6 weight fly rods for trout streams, and heavier gear if targeting muskie or pike in larger lakes.
  • 4Waders are essential for stream fishing, particularly in early season when water temperatures remain cold and for accessing prime pools and runs.
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Fishing Campgrounds in Pennsylvania FAQ

We've ranked 20+ fishing campgrounds in Pennsylvania based on review ratings, lake/river access, and amenities. The top-rated options include campgrounds with boat launches, fish cleaning stations, and proximity to stocked waters.

Yes, Pennsylvania requires a valid fishing license for most anglers. Check the Pennsylvania Fish & Wildlife agency for current license requirements, fees, and regulations before your trip.

Spring through Fall (April-October) is typically the best time for fishing camping in Pennsylvania. Specific peak times vary by fish species and water body—check local fishing reports for current conditions.

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