Clarion River Campsites
4.5010 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
27 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
27 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Clarion River Campsites
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
This campground is free of charge for all visitors. No fees are required for camping.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider814-927-6628sm.fs.anf@usda.gov
What Campers Say
4.50
Recommended
Based on 10 reviews
32 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewspeaceful
"User reviews highlight the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the campground, with frequent mentions of the Clarion River’s scenic views. However, the first-come, first-served policy and lack of modern amenities are cited as challenges."
Fees & Passes at Clarion River Campsites
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 days in any 30-day period.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Marienville Ranger District Office website.
Best Time to Camp at Clarion River Campsites
Experience nature's full palette as the seasons transform this riverside retreat. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and rushing waters from snowmelt, while autumn sets the forest ablaze with brilliant oranges and crimsons. Summer draws families and paddlers to these popular waters, making shoulder seasons ideal for those seeking solitude. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, where only the hardiest adventurers brave the snow-laden trails and frozen riverbanks.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: Open year-round; vault toilets are operational from April 1 to November 1.
About Clarion River Campsites
Discover a hidden gem where 27 primitive campsites beckon adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of Allegheny National Forest. This first-come, first-served sanctuary offers 18 coveted riverside spots along the pristine Clarion River, while 9 additional sites nestle beside the tranquil waters of Millstone Creek. Here, dispersed camping takes on its truest form—no reservations, no crowds, just you and the rhythmic whisper of flowing water beneath towering forest canopy.
The campground exclusively offers primitive camping options, which cater to tent campers and camper vans. Sites are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved.
Historical SignificanceThese cherished campsites rest within the federally designated Clarion Wild and Scenic River corridor, a testament to the area's exceptional ecological value and unspoiled beauty. As part of the vast Allegheny National Forest, this landscape tells the story of Pennsylvania's conservation legacy, where pristine waters and ancient forests have been preserved for generations of outdoor enthusiasts to explore and protect.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette as the seasons transform this riverside retreat. Spring arrives with wildflower blooms and rushing waters from snowmelt, while autumn sets the forest ablaze with brilliant oranges and crimsons. Summer draws families and paddlers to these popular waters, making shoulder seasons ideal for those seeking solitude. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, where only the hardiest adventurers brave the snow-laden trails and frozen riverbanks.
ElevationThe gentle terrain follows the natural contours of the river valley, creating an accessible wilderness experience for campers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where visitors consistently marvel at the Clarion River's crystalline beauty, its waters reflecting the dense canopy above like nature's own mirror. In autumn, the forest erupts in a symphony of color that frames each campsite in golden light. The peaceful murmur of both river and creek creates a natural soundtrack that lulls campers to sleep, while morning mists rise through towering hardwoods to reveal a landscape that feels untouched by time.
Geological RegionCarved through the rolling hills of the Allegheny Plateau, this remarkable landscape showcases the power of water and time. The Clarion Wild and Scenic River has sculpted a valley of exceptional beauty within the greater Allegheny National Forest, where dense deciduous forests blanket ancient hills and crystal-clear streams cascade toward their confluence. This is Pennsylvania's wilderness at its finest—where geological forces have created the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed.
Sites SizeSites accommodate standard camping needs, including space for tents and camper vans.
Sites PrivacySome reviews describe the campsites as peaceful and secluded while others note that finding an available site can be challenging due to high demand.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early, especially during weekends and peak seasons, to secure your campsite.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Sites must be occupied within the first 24 hours.
Check-out
14-day maximum stay applies.
Stay Limit
14 days in any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per site.
Groups
Group camping details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampsites are dispersed along River Road and FR 132, with distinct sections for Millstone Creek and Clarion River sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; vault toilets are operational from April 1 to November 1.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors cannot reserve sites in advance; they must occupy the site on the first night and within every 24-hour period.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Clarion River Campsites offer a variety of outdoor activities, including non-motorized boating, fishing, and intermediate-level hiking. The scenic beauty of the Clarion River enhances these experiences.
Hiking
Hiking is available along the Clarion River and is classified as intermediate in difficulty. Specific trails are not detailed, but the area offers opportunities for day hikes.Fishing
Fishing is permitted along the Clarion River. It is described as intermediate-level fishing based on the river's conditions.Boating
Non-motorized boating is supported. Canoe launches are available at Irwin Run, Robin Island, and Millstone Creek. The area is described as easy for boating, although it is not suitable for large crafts.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, although the campground is open year-round.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating such as canoeing or kayaking.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be in a designated fire ring and fully extinguished before leaving.
Hazards
General hazardsPoor cell service reported by users. Firewood is limited due to restrictions on bringing wood into the forest to prevent pests.
Weather at Clarion River Campsites
30
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Marienville, approximately 6 miles away, including police and medical facilities.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash receptacles are available. All trash must be packed out. Campers are advised not to burn trash as partially burned waste can attract wildlife and create hazards.
Proximity to water features18 campsites are located along the Clarion River. Additional sites are near Millstone Creek.
Common complaintsSites are first-come, first-served, making it difficult to secure a spot.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Marienville, follow South Forest Street (SR 3002) approximately 6 miles to the Loleta Recreation Area. Cross Millstone Creek and turn right onto Millstone Road (FR 132). Follow Millstone Road towards the Clarion River. Camping starts on the right after the pipeline, with sites numbered from M9 to M1. At the intersection of Millstone Road and River Road, continue straight for Clarion River Campsites (C1 to C17). From Cook Forest, turn east from SR 36 onto River Road. Continue to the stop sign at Millstone Road (FR 132). Turn right for Clarion River Campsites (C1 to C17) or left for Millstone campsites (M1 to M9). From I-80 Eastbound, take Exit 73 to SR 949, stay on SR 949 for 16 miles, turn left onto SR 3001, cross the Clarion River, then turn left for campsites C1 to M9 or right for C5 to C17. From I-80 Westbound, take Exit 78, follow SR 36 for 8 miles, turn right onto SR 949, follow for 8.5 miles to Bridge Road, cross the Clarion River, then turn left for C1 to M9 or right for C5 to C17.
Accessible year-round but requires traveling on smaller roads such as River Road and Forest Roads (FR 132). Roads may be challenging for large vehicles, especially during bad weather. Limited parking within 50 feet of the site roads.Nearby places
Marienville (approx. 6 miles, 15 minutes), Cook Forest (approx. 8 miles, 20 minutes), Clarington (approx. 10 miles, 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Emergency supplies, fuel, and groceries are available in Marienville (6 miles).
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
10 reviews
Clarion River Campsites is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the campground, with frequent mentions of the Clarion River’s scenic views. However, the first-come, first-served policy and lack of modern amenities are cited as challenges.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the free camping experience and describe the campground as peaceful and close to nature. One reviewer noted, "Went in late October and the colorful fall leaves and winding river...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the difficulty of finding an available site due to the campground's popularity, the poor cell reception, and the lack of firewood. As one reviewer stated, "Since they are...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest arriving early to secure a site due to the first-come, first-served system. They also recommend bringing your own firewood (within the regulations) and sufficient water as none is...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is particularly popular in summer, often filled to capacity. Fall is praised for its vibrant foliage and fewer visitors. Late October is mentioned as an ideal time for enjoying the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Definitely out of the way and you will think you're lost but once you're here it doesn't get much better for dispersed camping." - K4K Gaming & Outdoors. "We were lucky to find one spot open." -...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Robin Island is highlighted as having a group of 6-7 sites with an outhouse nearby. Specific reviews mention finding sites close to the river as particularly rewarding.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user feedback addresses accessibility.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Reviewers stress the importance of keeping pets in tents at night and ensuring they have ample water.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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