Cook Forest State Park
00 reviewPO Box 120 River Road, COOKSBURG, Pennsylvania, 16217, United States
Cook Forest State Park
$32.50 - $32.50 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.50
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Sites cost $32.5 per night, which includes an additional $2 fee for pets. Rates apply primarily to non-hookup tent sites.
About this campground
Step into a living cathedral where ancient giants touch the sky at Cook Forest State Park's enchanting 8,500-acre wilderness. Here, centuries-old trees create a natural sanctuary that has earned the Forest Cathedral its prestigious designation as a National Natural Landmark. Your camping adventure unfolds beneath the protective canopy of these towering sentinels, where wooded sites offer intimate communion with nature. Miles of winding trails beckon explorers deeper into the forest's mysteries, while the gentle waters of the Clarion River provide a refreshing counterpoint to your woodland retreat.
Cook Forest State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including tent camping, RV sites, and cabin lodging. Both primitive and developed camping options are available, with designated pet-friendly areas.
Historical SignificanceOnce known as the mysterious Black Forest, this remarkable landscape has witnessed centuries of natural and human history. The Forest Cathedral stands as a testament to nature's resilience, preserving a glimpse of Pennsylvania's primeval wilderness that once stretched unbroken across the continent. This National Natural Landmark designation recognizes not just the ecological importance of these ancient trees, but their role as living monuments to our natural heritage. Every visit connects you to the countless generations who have found solace and wonder beneath these same towering canopies.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Cook Forest with its own distinctive palette. Spring arrives with a whisper of warming breezes and the forest floor carpeted in wildflowers, while summer wraps the campground in comfortable warmth perfect for riverside adventures. Autumn transforms the landscape into a masterpiece of gold and crimson, with crisp air that makes every hike invigorating. Winter brings its own quiet magic, with freezing temperatures that transform the forest into a crystalline wonderland. Throughout the year, the park enjoys relatively dry conditions, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts in any season.
ElevationThe gentle rolling terrain of Cook Forest creates a varied landscape that adds character to every camping experience, with sites nestled at different levels throughout the wooded hillsides.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden sunlight filtering through a cathedral ceiling of white pine and hemlock branches, some reaching heights that rival ten-story buildings. This old-growth forest creates an ecosystem of stunning beauty and remarkable biodiversity. Morning mists rise from the forest floor as deer pick their way delicately between the massive trunks, while playful raccoons rustles through the understory at dusk. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day creates an ever-changing tableau of natural artistry, from the soft dawn glow to the amber hues of sunset that paint the ancient bark in warm tones.
Geological RegionNestled in the rolling hills of northwestern Pennsylvania, Cook Forest occupies a unique ecological niche where the ancient Appalachian forests meet the gentle valleys carved by the scenic Clarion River. This remarkable convergence has created the perfect conditions for the Forest Cathedral's majestic white pines and hemlocks to thrive for centuries. The region's geology tells a story millions of years in the making, where patient waters carved through ancient bedrock to create the diverse topography that supports this extraordinary old-growth ecosystem. The Clarion River continues its timeless journey through the landscape, offering both scenic beauty and recreational opportunities for modern visitors.
Campsite details
AccessibilityADA cabins, sites, and restrooms are available, making the campground accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeVaried sizes, with some spacious wooded sites and others in open fields. Specific areas, like site 186, were noted for their spaciousness but had flooding issues in heavy rain.
Sites PrivacyVaried, with some secluded, wooded sites offering privacy, while other sites, particularly in open fields, are described as less private. Site 186 was highlighted for being private yet prone to flooding.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIf privacy is a priority, consider site 186 but be cautious during rainy seasons. Tent campers should opt for sites under the canopy of pines for shade and seclusion.
Best CampsitesSite 186 is noted for its privacy, but it floods during heavy rains. Tent sites toward the back of the campground are recommended for hammock relaxation under pines.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- No formal check-in process mentioned
- campers are instructed to find their reserved spot upon arrival.
Check-out
No formal check-out process mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is not explicitly detailed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite as per rules.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes loops and sections for RVs, tent camping, and pet-friendly areas. Sites vary in spacing and privacy, with tent sites often under tree canopy and RV sites offering hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonNo explicit open or closed seasons provided in the source materials.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made via the Pennsylvania State Park reservation system.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific mention of walk-up/first-come-first-served policies or availability of sites without reservations.
Cancellation PolicyRules and deadlines for cancellation are not specified.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Cook Forest State Park is renowned for outdoor recreation, from hiking in its old growth forest and exploring trails to engaging in water sports on the Clarion River. Wildlife viewing and stargazing are popular due to the quiet and natural setting.
Hiking
Multiple trails, including some leading to notable landmarks like the Fire Tower. Reviewers describe the trails as varied in difficulty and scenic, with access directly from the campground.Fishing
Fishing is available, with opportunities at the children's fishing pond near the cabins.Boating
Activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and rafting are popular on the Clarion River, which is readily accessible from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Frequent sightings of raccoons, chipmunks, deer, and other woodland creatures. Reviewers mention raccoons being particularly bold around campsites.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed in the available sources.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking and canoeing on the Clarion River are highly recommended by users.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, and firewood is available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 9 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoons and other wildlife may pose minor nuisances such as food theft. Seasonal flooding is reported at site 186 during heavy rains.
Active alertsNone explicitly stated in the source materials.
Weather forecast
49
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Cook Forest Park Office located at 100 Route 36, Cooksburg, PA 16217. Emergency services include police and ranger services at the park office. Closest hospital is likely in Clarion, PA (approximately 10 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specifics about locations or schedules are not detailed in the sources.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to the Clarion River, approximately one mile from some sites. Features include canoeing and rafting opportunities.
Common complaintsBathrooms and showers are outdated and may lack cleanliness. Sites in pet-friendly areas are said to be close together. Rangers are reported to enforce rules strictly, leading to mixed reviews.
HostCamp hosts are reported to vary in friendliness and helpfulness based on reviews. Some hosts were unresponsive or unfriendly.
Campground Map
PO Box 120 River Road, COOKSBURG, Pennsylvania, 16217, United States
Driving directionsFrom the east, take Exit 78 off of I-80, then PA 36 north directly to the park in Cooksburg. From the west, take Exit 60 off of I-80, then take PA 66 north to Leeper. From Leeper, follow PA 36 south, seven miles to the park. Ridge Campground: From Cook Forest Park Office: Take a right onto Route 36 North and continue for approximately one-mile. Ridge Camp is located on the right-hand side of the road directly across from Fire Tower Road. From Leeper: Take Route 36 South for 7 miles. Ridge Camp is located on the left-hand side of the road directly across from Fire Tower Road. Indian Cabins: Cabins are located behind the Cook Forest Park Office near the children's fishing pond. River Cabins: From the intersection of River Road and Route 36, travel approximately one-mile on River Road. Cabins are located on the left-hand side of the road near Henry Run.
Accessible year-round via state roads. PA 36 is paved and leads directly to the park. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain noted.Nearby places
Leeper (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Clarion (10 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Gas station with grocery basics and ice cream nearby (exact distance unclear). Firewood available for purchase on-site. Nearest camp store outside the campground mentioned but exact distance unavailable.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Cook Forest State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cook Forest State Park are generally positive, with many highlighting the beauty of the old growth forest and variety of outdoor activities. Common complaints include outdated and poorly maintained facilities, limited privacy in some areas, and strict enforcement of camp policies.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers praise the scenic old growth forest, abundant recreational opportunities, quiet nights, and well-maintained sites. Hot showers and good water pressure were frequently noted.
Common Concerns
Common criticisms include outdated restrooms and showers, lack of privacy in some areas, and strict enforcement of rules by park rangers. Wet or green firewood was also a concern.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood as on-site options may be damp. For better cell service, utilize the dump station area. Book sites in the back loops for more privacy.
Seasonal Insights
Summer visitors appreciated the lush greenery and family-friendly atmosphere, but noted crowded conditions. Fall reviews frequently lauded the autumn foliage. Winter activities were not mentioned.
Camper Quotes
"The 300+ year-old trees are definitely a sight to see!" - Aubrey Freeze; "Quiet at night and good for stargazing or watching fireflies." - Christopher Field; "Great for tent camping to full hook up....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 186 is noted for its privacy but is prone to flooding. Site 215 reportedly offers limited space between neighbors.
Accessibility Features
ADA sites and restrooms were mentioned, but there is limited specific feedback from users with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly sites are appreciated, but strict enforcement of pet rules was highlighted as a drawback.
Last updated August 10, 2025