How much does camping cost at Willow Bay?

Camping fees at Willow Bay are $20 - $100/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Willow Bay first-come first-served or reservation?

Willow Bay 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 Willow Bay before I book?

Yes! Willow Bay has 8 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 Willow Bay?

Willow Bay is open March 31 to October 31. 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 Willow Bay?

Yes, Willow Bay has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Willow Bay have?

Willow Bay has 130 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Willow Bay?

Yes, pets are allowed at Willow Bay. 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 Willow Bay?

Willow Bay offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Willow Bay?

Popular activities at Willow Bay include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Willow Bay

Q: Can I have a campfire at Willow Bay?

Fire policies at Willow Bay: 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.

4.42

622 reviews

4001 West Washington St.

Top 12% in PASummer

B-Report Card

Pet FriendlyScenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

1,400 ft

Price

$20 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

130 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 2% in state

ElectricShowers

Book on Allegheny Site Management Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,400 ft

Price

$20 - $100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

130 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 2% in state

ElectricShowers

Book on Allegheny Site Management Official Website

Get Directions

Willow Bay

$20.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $60.00; Cabin Electric Premium Tent: $100.00; Cabin Electric Premium: $80.00; Cabin Electric: $60.00; GROUP PICNIC AREA: $50.00;...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

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Provider

814-368-4158

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Campground Map

4001 West Washington St.

Willow Bay

4001 West Washington St.

Nearby places

Bradford (16 miles, approximately 25-minute drive)

Salamanca, NY (30 miles, approximately 35-minute drive)

Warren, PA (Approximately 50 miles, roughly 1-hour drive).

Weather at Willow Bay

Current alerts(12)

Campsite fee includes one wheeled camping unit only
Check out time is 12pm. Check in time is 2:00 pm. Camping fees must be paid by within 30 minutes of arrival - Put your site number and license plate number on your fee envelope.
Click here for more information about the Allegheny National Forest.
Interagency passes are accepted at most sites and are valid for the pass holder and any accompanying passengers in a private vehicle. Pass holder must occupy the site.

Best Time to Camp at Willow Bay

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of stable, warm weather and full services — expect daytime highs around 75–82°F and cool evenings in the 50s, ideal for swimming, boating, and long days on the water. All campground facilities (flush toilets, hot showers, potable water and boat launches) are open and electric hookups are available, so it’s the peak time for family outings and water-based activities like kayaking and bass/walleye fishing. Weekends can be busy, so book early or visit midweek fora Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in PA

Best season: summer with full services, ideal temps and water activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: March 31 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Willow Bay

Willow Bay sits on the shores of Allegheny Reservoir in northwestern Pennsylvania's Allegheny National Forest, near Bradford. Operated by Allegheny Site Management, this large campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, primitive options, and cabins with access to swimming, boating, and fishing. Reviewers praise the exceptional cleanliness and reservoir views but note limited privacy between sites and minimal cell service.

Willow Bay caters to a variety of campers, offering tent sites, RV sites, and rustic cabins. Walk-to tent sites provide a more primitive experience, while RV sites include electric hookups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of stable, warm weather and full services — expect daytime highs around 75–82°F and cool evenings in the 50s, ideal for swimming, boating, and long days on the water. All campground facilities (flush toilets, hot showers, potable water and boat launches) are open and electric hookups are available, so it’s the peak time for family outings and water-based activities like kayaking and bass/walleye fishing. Weekends can be busy, so book early or visit midweek fora Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation1400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a protected inlet where forested Appalachian hills meet the reservoir's calm waters. Hemlocks tower over many sites, creating dense shade in some areas while others offer open, grassy ground closer to the waterline. Morning mist lifts off Willow Bay, and the surrounding ridges create a natural amphitheater. Deer and wild turkey appear regularly. The mix of old-growth forest and lakeside habitat supports diverse plant life, from hemlocks to wildflowers along the shore. Walk-to tent sites near the water offer the most seclusion and direct reservoir access.

Lodging & AccommodationsRustic cabins are available year-round and contain electricity and heat but no plumbing. Each cabin is equipped with a double bed, a set of bunks, a covered porch swing, outdoor table, campfire ring, and pedestal grill. Bedding and cooking supplies are not provided. Reviews often praise the cabins' cleanliness and comfort: 'The cabins were just the right size and the kids loved the attic bed!'

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programming is not mentioned for this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay duration is 14 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Typically 4-6 guests per cabin
campsites vary.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsBookings available via Recreation.gov website and app.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible flush and vault toilets, and some cabins have been designed for wheelchair access. There are no specifics regarding trails or other accessibility features.

Site SizeCampsites accommodate a range of setups, from small tents to large RVs. Cabin sizes are 10ft x 12ft.

PrivacyMixed privacy levels. Some sites are well-separated, while others are described as close together. Walk-to tent sites offer more seclusion, especially near the water.

Total Campsites130 campsites

Recommended SitesTent campers should choose waterfront sites for the best views. RV campers may prefer the Hemlock Loop for spacious sites with electric hookups.

Best CampsitesCabin 104 gets praise for water access and an included tent site. Waterfront tent sites in the Deer Loop are highly rated for scenery and proximity to the reservoir. These walk-to sites offer better seclusion than the closer-together RV spots.

Need help booking Willow Bay?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Shower houses and water are on 4/1 to 10/30. To confirm late season call 814-363.9090 or go to www.alleghenysite.com.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Willow Bay

Willow Bay offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, water sports, wildlife viewing, and fishing. The campground provides access to the Allegheny Reservoir for boating and kayaking and connects to the North Country Trail, a 4,600-mile National Scenic Trail.

Hiking4.0/5

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing on Allegheny Reservoir for walleye, bass and musky; fishing directly from sites noted.

Boating4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Water Sports4.0/5

Kayak/canoe access and positive kayaking mentions; dock and calm inlet aid paddling.

Swimming3.5/5

Swimming permitted in the reservoir; some sites have direct water access.

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Limited cell service and remote forest setting suggest darker skies for stargazing.

Photography4.5/5Morning mist, reservoir views, wooded ridges and wildlife make the site highly photogenic.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

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, and guests are encouraged to use them and avoid burning trash to deter wildlife.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Willow Bay

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From Booking Sources

4.4

622 reviews

Recommended

Willow Bay is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Willow Bay are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for the clean facilities, scenic views, and range of activities. Common concerns include the presence of wildlife (especially bears), noise from other campers, and occasional staff unavailability.

Review Summaries

Based on 622 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 622 reviews.

Site 56 (Hemlock Loop)Loved
Site 56 (Hemlock Loop): 'Fairly private, scenic view, but difficult for larger RVs.' - Kelly B.
Site 29 (Aspen Loop)Mentioned
Site 29 (Aspen Loop): 'Nice, level site close to the river with electric hookups.' - Ronnie M.. 2.

What Campers Love

Positive reviewers highlight the campground's cleanliness, beautiful setting, and friendly staff. One user said, 'The bathrooms are exceptional even on the busiest weekends.' Another noted, 'The...

Based on 622 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the lack of cell service, noise from other campers, and issues with bears. Some mentioned inexperienced staff and difficulties with reservations.

Based on 622 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing bear-proof food storage, extra stakes for rocky tent sites, and planning for no cell service. Some suggest booking waterfront sites for the best experience.

Based on 622 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is highly praised in summer for water activities and in fall for foliage. Winter stays are noted for their quietness but come with limited facilities.

Based on 622 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Our favorite campground for decades! The reservoir is beautiful, and stargazing is amazing.' - Derrick Thornbury 2. 'Bathrooms very clean with hot showers.' - Linda Devlin 3. 'Absolutely...

Based on 622 reviews

Accessibility Features

Several reviews mention clean and accessible facilities, though specific accessibility features are not detailed. 'The bathrooms were spotless and accessible.' - Jamie R.

Based on 622 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some complaints about unattended dogs bothering other campers. 'We brought our dogs, and they loved it here.' - Aleasha B.

Based on 622 reviews

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Willow Bay

$20.00 - $100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $60.00; Cabin Electric Premium Tent: $100.00; Cabin Electric Premium: $80.00; Cabin Electric: $60.00; GROUP PICNIC AREA: $50.00;...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

814-368-4158

Go if

You want full-service reservoir access with swimming, boating, and clean facilities in a forested setting.

Skip if

You need quiet, private sites or reliable cell coverage for remote work.

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Allegheny National Forest

Hooks Brook is a boat-access-only campground on Allegheny Reservoir in Allegheny National Forest, reachable by paddling or motorboat from nearby launches. The U.S. Forest Service maintains this primitive site with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, but no potable water or vehicle access. Visitors come for the seclusion, fall foliage paddling, and shoreline fishing in the reservoir's quieter arms.

Willow Bay

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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About Willow Bay

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Amenities available

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Current alerts(12)

Best Time to Camp at Willow Bay

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Need help booking Willow Bay?

Amenities available

Things to do at Willow Bay

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns