Blue Knob State Park
00 review124 PARK RD, IMLER, Pennsylvania, 16655, United States
Blue Knob State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees range from $25 to $35 per night for campsites, depending on the specific site features like hookups or premium locations.
About this campground
Escape to Blue Knob State Park, where 6,128 acres of pristine wilderness await your discovery. Perched high in the Pennsylvania mountains, this year-round camping destination offers a rare combination of solitude and adventure. Here, the mountain air is crisp and refreshing, the facilities are meticulously maintained, and the staff welcomes you like old friends. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat from city life or an outdoor basecamp for exploration, Blue Knob delivers an authentic wilderness experience that keeps campers returning season after season.
The data does not provide a detailed breakdown of specific campsite types available at Blue Knob State Park.
Historical SignificanceWhile Blue Knob State Park's historical records remain quietly tucked away, the land itself tells a story of Pennsylvania's wild heritage. This mountaintop sanctuary has long served as a refuge for those seeking respite in nature's embrace.
Weather and SeasonsBlue Knob's elevated position creates a unique mountain climate that transforms with each passing season. When summer heat grips the valleys below, the park remains a cool refuge. Winter transforms this highland paradise into a snow-covered wonderland, with an impressive 12 feet of annual snowfall creating perfect conditions for cold-weather camping and snow sports. Spring and fall offer their own magic, with wildflower blooms and spectacular foliage displays. Weather can shift dramatically from brilliant sunshine to mountain storms, adding an element of adventure to every visit.
ElevationRising above the surrounding landscape, Blue Knob's lofty elevation creates a natural climate haven. When valley temperatures soar, campers here enjoy nature's air conditioning, with temperatures often 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby cities. This mountain perch transforms the park into a winter wonderland each year, accumulating an average of 12 feet of snow that blankets the forest in pristine white. The elevation isn't just about temperature—it's about perspective, offering sweeping views and a sense of being above it all.
Natural Features and SceneryBlue Knob's landscape unfolds like a living tapestry of Pennsylvania mountain wilderness. Dense woodlands stretch as far as the eye can see, interrupted only by babbling mountain streams that wind through the forest floor. Miles of trails meander through this elevated ecosystem, where the air carries the scent of pine and earth. The park's high elevation creates dramatic seasonal transformations—from the lush green canopy of summer to the stark beauty of winter's 12-foot snowpack. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene, whether it's morning mist rising through the trees or sunset painting the mountain peaks in golden hues.
Geological RegionNestled in the northwestern corner of Bedford County, Blue Knob State Park crowns one of Pennsylvania's most prominent mountain peaks. This 6,128-acre woodland sanctuary sits atop ancient geological formations that have weathered millions of years. The park's elevated position not only provides commanding views of the surrounding valleys but creates its own microclimate, where mountain weather patterns collide to produce everything from gentle summer breezes to dramatic winter storms that deposit an average of 12 feet of snow annually. This unique geological setting makes Blue Knob a natural fortress of wilderness, isolated yet accessible, where the modern world fades away among the ancient rocks and forests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features have not been explicitly described in the available data.
Sites SizeNo specific details about campsite sizes were available.
Sites PrivacySpecific details about campsite privacy were not mentioned.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are generally level despite the campground being situated on a hill, as noted in user reviews.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite rankings or recommendations provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One family unit or up to five unrelated persons allowed.
Groups
No details about group sites, including capacity or restrictions, are provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutMost of the campground is described as being on a hill, though individual sites are level.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo information provided about specific platforms for reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided regarding walk-up or first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies were not detailed in the source.
Amenities available
Showers
Dump station
Activities you can enjoy
Blue Knob State Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Official sources emphasize hiking and mountain biking trails, cross-country and downhill skiing, fishing, and a swimming pool as key features. User reviews also reflect positively on the recreational offerings. For instance, Mary Miller appreciated the 'plentiful trails' and 'spectacular views,' while Samantha McGeehan lauded the hiking trails despite having issues with the rangers. Activities like hunting are also mentioned in the official content.
Hiking
Hiking trails at Blue Knob State Park are a major highlight. Official data emphasizes their availability and user reviews like Mary Miller's underscore the 'plentiful trails' with 'spectacular views.' Specific difficulties or trail lengths are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing is listed among the available activities, though there are no specific details regarding the types of fish or fishing quality.Swimming
The park features a swimming pool. However, neither the operational status nor details about safety measures are provided.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available, but the terrain and skill-level requirements are not specified.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes cross-country skiing and downhill skiing, as specifically mentioned in the authoritative content.Water Sports
No mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies provided.
- Quiet hours are 9 PM to 8 AM as per permit conditions.
Hazards
General hazardsNo specific hazards were noted in the source.
Active alertsNo active alerts were mentioned.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 71%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 0.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
No specific information on emergency services was available. Marked as null.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo date ranges for peak pricing periods were mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details on trash and recycling facilities were provided.
Proximity to water featuresStreams and trails are noted, but specific water bodies were not mentioned.
Common complaintsOne user review mentioned ranger hostility, contrasting with others praising the staff's friendliness.
HostPark rangers are available, and interactions vary according to user reviews.
Campground Map
124 PARK RD, IMLER, Pennsylvania, 16655, United States
Driving directionsFrom East or West: Take the Pennsylvania Turnpike to Bedford, Exit 146. Go north on I-99 to Exit 7. Follow PA 869 west to Pavia, then follow signs through Pavia to the park. From North: Take I-99 south to Exit 23. Follow Old US 220 south. Turn right onto PA 164 west, follow to the town of Blue Knob. Turn left onto Blue Knob Road (LR 4035) follow five miles to northern entrance of the park. From South: Take I-70 west to Breezewood, then US 30 west to Bedford, then north on I-99 to Exit 7. Follow PA 869 west to Pavia, then follow signs through Pavia to the park.
Road access is described as involving paved routes via major highways such as the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I-99, and local roads like PA 869 and Blue Knob Road. No indication of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was provided.Nearby places
Altoona, Johnstown, and Bedford are all within 25 miles of the park.
Nearby supplies
The nearest camp store and laundromat are located more than 10 miles outside the campground. Similarly, the nearest store for camping essentials is more than 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Blue Knob State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the tranquility and natural beauty of Blue Knob State Park, along with its trails and opportunities to unplug. However, some users reported negative interactions with park rangers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the quiet atmosphere, cleanliness of facilities, and the natural beauty of the park. Mary Miller extended her stay due to the 'peace and quiet' and 'natural beauty surrounding'...
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Common Concerns
A recurring theme in user complaints is dissatisfaction with park rangers, described by Samantha McGeehan as 'aggressive and hostile.'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors may wish to arrive earlier in the week to enjoy minimal crowds, as indicated by Brodie Brockman's experience of 'hardly anyone in the campground' early in the week.
Seasonal Insights
Most reviews are positive during warmer months, highlighting the quiet and scenic environment. Winter activities like skiing are noted officially but not reviewed by users.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Enjoyed the park so much we extended our stay to a week.' - Mary Miller
2. 'Facilities were really nice and clean.' - Brodie Brockman
3. 'The natural beauty of this state park was disappointingly...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific campsite numbers or areas were reviewed for better or worse experiences.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically discuss experiences with pets or pet-friendly policies.
Last updated August 10, 2025