How much does camping cost at Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Camping fees at Hearts Content Recreation Area are $12 - $80/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hearts Content Recreation Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Hearts Content Recreation Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hearts Content Recreation Area before I book?

Yes! Hearts Content Recreation Area has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Hearts Content Recreation Area is open May 01 to October 26. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Hearts Content Recreation Area does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Hearts Content Recreation Area have?

Hearts Content Recreation Area has 26 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Hearts Content Recreation Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Hearts Content Recreation Area offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Popular activities at Hearts Content Recreation Area include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Hearts Content Recreation Area

Q: Can I have a campfire at Hearts Content Recreation Area?

Fire policies at Hearts Content Recreation Area: Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.63

270 reviews

PO Box 2395, 3451 Rt. 59, Bradford, PA 16701, USA

Top 16% in PAFall

B+Report Card

Scenic Views

Featured in:Hiking Camping Pennsylvania#1 Winter Camping Pennsylvania#1 Forest Camping Pennsylvania#1 +14 more

Quick Facts

1,972 ft

Price

$12 - $80/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Allegheny Site Management Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,972 ft

Price

$12 - $80/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

Open season runs fro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Allegheny Site Management Official Website

Get Directions

Hearts Content Recreation Area

$12.00 - $80.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD AREA NONELECTRIC: $80.00; LEAN TO: $14.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $12.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online /...

Group Site Fee$80.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

814-368-4158

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

PO Box 2395, 3451 Rt. 59, Bradford, PA 16701, USA

Hearts Content Recreation Area

PO Box 2395, 3451 Rt. 59, Bradford, PA 16701, USA

Nearby places

Warren, PA (15 miles southwest)

Sheffield, PA (13.3 miles to the east)

Driving directionsHearts Content Recreation Area is located 15 miles southwest of Warren, PA. From the Mohawk exit of U.S. Route 6, take Pleasant Drive south for 11 miles. Turn left onto State Secondary Route 2002 (Hearts Content Road) and go south for four miles to Hearts Content. The Hearts Content Recreation Area is split by State Route 2002, with the campground on the west side of the road and the scenic area on the east side. Coming from the east, take PA-6 to Sheffield and turn left at the stop light onto PA-666. Cross the railroad tracks and turn right after 1 block onto Bull Hill Road and cross Tionesta Creek on the iron bridge, heading up the hill to the left. This road changes names several times (Bull Hill, Austin Hill, Hearts Content), but is State Secondary Route 2002. Follow it for 13.3 miles to Hearts Content. The campground will be on the left (west) side of the road and the scenic area will be slightly further ahead on the right.

Weather at Hearts Content Recreation Area

Current alerts(11)

Check out time is 12:00 pm. Camping fees must be paid within 30 minutes after arrival - don't forget to put your site number and license plate number on your fee envelope.
Click here to learn more about the Allegheny National Forest.
Fee includes two vehicles and one wheeled camping unit; a $5/vehicle fee will be collected for extra vehicles at the campground.
Interagency passes are accepted at most sites and are valid for the pass holder only. Pass holder must occupy the site.

Best Time to Camp at Hearts Content Recreation Area

Best season: fall. Fall offers the campground's signature experience: vibrant hardwood color at ~2,000 ft elevation, crisp daytime temps and very comfortable hiking weather (typically 45–65°F by day, 30–45°F nights in September–October). Leaf-peeping, photography, and wildlife viewing are at their peak as beech, maple, and oak turn golden and crimson; trails are less buggy than summer and the semi-primitive sites feel especially peaceful. Expect moderate to heavy crowds on peak foliage weekends, so plan weekday or Peak months: October, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 16% in PA

Called the 'best season' with signature vibrant hardwood color at ~2,000 ft elevation.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to October 26. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season runs from May 1 to October 26. Reservations can be made starting June 25.

About Hearts Content Recreation Area

Hearts Content Recreation Area sits in the Allegheny National Forest foothills near Bradford, operated by Allegheny Site Management. This small campground offers tent, RV, primitive, and group camping with vault toilets, potable water, and a dump station. Reviewers praise the spacious, private sites and proximity to old-growth forest trails, though hookups are unavailable and some trails lack clear marking.

Hearts Content Recreation Area caters to tent and RV campers and offers group campsites. The campground provides a rustic, semi-primitive setting ideal for those seeking a quieter and more natural camping experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the campground's signature experience: vibrant hardwood color at ~2,000 ft elevation, crisp daytime temps and very comfortable hiking weather (typically 45–65°F by day, 30–45°F nights in September–October). Leaf-peeping, photography, and wildlife viewing are at their peak as beech, maple, and oak turn golden and crimson; trails are less buggy than summer and the semi-primitive sites feel especially peaceful. Expect moderate to heavy crowds on peak foliage weekends, so plan weekday or Peak months: October, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation1972 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits within a transitional forest of native beech, maple, and oak alongside planted pines and scattered old-growth hemlocks and white pines. Some of these ancient trees have stood for centuries, creating pockets of cathedral-like canopy. The nearby Hickory Creek Wilderness offers dense second-growth forest, fern-covered understory, and seasonal streams. Elevation hovers near 2,000 feet, supporting cooler microclimates and diverse wildlife. Synchronous fireflies appear in early summer, a rare phenomenon east of the Mississippi.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or glamping options are available. The campground offers lean-to shelters at two sites for a slightly different camping experience.

Programs & ActivitiesAn orienteering course is available as a self-guided introduction to the sport. This activity is a feature unique to the Hearts Content area, beginning in the nearby scenic area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 consecutive nights allowed during a single visit, with a rolling 30-day limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by campsite, some sites allow up to 8 guests.

Groups

Group camping is available in a large field at the back of the campground, which also serves as a helispot. No specific details on group size limits or vehicle accommodations are provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via their contact center.

AccessibilityFacilities in the adjacent day-use area are universally accessible. No specific information on campsite accessibility features is provided.

Site SizeStandard to large sites with good spacing between them. Users confirm that the sites are "spacious," with "plenty of trees" providing some privacy.

PrivacyCampsites offer good privacy, with many featuring "trees on three sides," according to user reviews. This layout supports a peaceful, secluded camping experience.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesShelter sites like #11 are ideal for rainy weather. Site #17 provides privacy with trees on three sides. Group camping sites are near open fields and ideal for stargazing.

Best CampsitesSite #11 is an Adirondack-style shelter. Site #17 sits on flat, wooded ground. Site #18 offers spacious, quiet surroundings good for stargazing. Many sites feature trees on three sides, providing natural privacy screens.

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Hearts Content Recreation Area offers a blend of semi-primitive and family-friendly camping features. The campground consists of 26 sites, each with picnic tables, fire rings, and tent pads/RV spurs. Two sites include lean-to shelters. Amenities include vault toilets, pressurized water, and a dump station located at the exit. Additional open fields near the entrance and back of the campground provide recreational and group camping opportunities. "The planners put thought into this site because it also has a playground area and open field for outdoor play," according to user feedback. Some reviewers note the "very rustic" nature of the facilities and emphasize the clean and well-maintained condition of the vault toilets, which are an appreciated feature.

Potable water

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Hearts Content Recreation Area

Hearts Content Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities for campers, including cross-country skiing, hiking, orienteering, and wildlife viewing. The area provides a unique blend of primitive and adventurous recreational opportunities.

Hiking4.0/5

Multiple trails (Wheeler Loop 6.4 mi, Tom's Run, Ironwood); called a hiker’s paradise.

The area is a hiker’s paradise, featuring multiple trails around the campground: the Wheeler Loop Trail (6.4 miles), the Tom's Run and Ironwood trails, and the Hickory Creek Wilderness Trail (13 miles). Reviewers describe the trails as "beautiful," with the old-growth forest being a highlight. Some trails, like those in the Hickory Creek Wilderness Area, are sparsely marked and more suitable for experienced hikers who value solitude.

Winter Activities3.0/5

Cross-country skiers use the trails in winter, but campground season is May–Oct.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote setting and lack of cell service imply low light pollution; quiet nights noted.

Photography4.0/5Old-growth trees, fall color, and cathedral canopy are repeatedly noted as scenic photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Vault toilets are the primary restroom facility offered.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Fire PolicyDon't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash receptacles are provided throughout the campground. Campers are reminded to place waste in receptacles and avoid burning trash to prevent attracting wildlife.

Cell CoverageCell service in the Hearts Content Recreation Area is described as "spotty at best," and visitors are advised to download any materials or directions prior to arrival.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

270 reviews

Top-Rated

Hearts Content Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's beauty and tranquility, with many appreciating its rustic charm and proximity to old-growth forests. Positive sentiments often mention the clean facilities, spacious campsites, and helpful campground hosts. Several reviewers refer to it as a "hidden gem" and a "perfect getaway."

Review Summaries

Based on 270 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 270 reviews.

Site #17Loved
Site #17 was described as flat and surrounded by privacy-providing trees.
Site #20Loved
Site #20 is noted for its quietness and good stargazing opportunities.
Site #11Mentioned
Site #11 received positive comments for its Adirondack-style shelter and proximity to maintained trails.

What Campers Love

Clean and well-maintained facilities, proximity to old-growth forests, spacious campsites with good privacy, helpful and friendly campground hosts, and access to unique natural features like...

Based on 270 reviews

Common Concerns

Lack of cell service, no shower facilities, and some sparsely marked trails that can be challenging for novice hikers.

Based on 270 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring firewood or purchase it on-site to avoid spreading invasive species. Download trail maps and resources beforehand due to limited cell reception. Experienced hikers should explore the Hickory...

Based on 270 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is popular in summer for its old-growth forest and firefly viewing. Winter sees cross-country skiers using the trails. Fall reviews praise the vibrant foliage and mild temperatures.

Based on 270 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The vault toilets were more clean and far less smelly than one might expect." "Spacious sites with good distance between them." "The campground hosts are always accommodating and very helpful." "The...

Based on 270 reviews

Accessibility Features

Facilities in the day-use area are universally accessible, but no specific reviews address campsite accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 270 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but must be on a leash. No specific reviews highlight pet-friendly features or challenges.

Based on 270 reviews

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Hearts Content Recreation Area

$12.00 - $80.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD AREA NONELECTRIC: $80.00; LEAN TO: $14.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $12.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online /...

Group Site Fee$80.00