How much does camping cost at Parker Dam State Park?

Camping fees at Parker Dam State Park range from $5-$75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Parker Dam State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Parker Dam State Park 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 Parker Dam State Park before I book?

Yes! Parker Dam State Park has 15 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 Parker Dam State Park?

Parker Dam State Park is open Peak season pricing is applicable during summer months and major hunting seasons such as whitetail rifle season.. 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 Parker Dam State Park?

Yes, Parker Dam State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Parker Dam State Park?

Fire policies at Parker Dam State Park: Campfires are allowed, but reviews emphasize the importance of securing food due to wildlife.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Parker Dam State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Parker Dam State Park. 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 Parker Dam State Park?

Parker Dam State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store, Laundry. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Parker Dam State Park?

Popular activities at Parker Dam State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Parker Dam State Park

4.48

132 reviews

28 FAIRVIEW RD, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States

C+Report Card

Summer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Pennsylvania

Quick Facts

1,663 ft

Price

$5 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

The campground remai...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Parker Dam State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,663 ft

Price

$5 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

The campground remai...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Parker Dam State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Parker Dam State Park

$5.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cabins are available for rent, with some reviews citing costs like $75 for premium amenities during peak season. Firewood is available at $5 per...

Premium Site Fee$75.00

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Provider

8147650630

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Campground Map

28 FAIRVIEW RD, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States

Parker Dam State Park

28 FAIRVIEW RD, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States

Nearby places

Penfield (0 miles, within park address), Clearfield (~20 miles), DuBois (~25 miles), Saint Marys (~28 miles), Benezette (~30 miles)

Nearby supplies

Gasoline is available within 10 miles. Camping supplies may be purchased at the camp store, but one review describes it as lacking beyond basic essentials. Food and concessions are available seasonally within the park.

Weather at Parker Dam State Park

Best Time to Camp at Parker Dam State Park

Fall delivers the best conditions, with peak foliage in mid-October and daytime temperatures in the 45-60°F range. Nights drop into the 30s and 40s. The elk rut runs late September through early October, adding wildlife viewing to the leaf-peeping. Weekends get busy but the campground stays manageable. Winter opens up skating on the frozen lake, sledding, and snowmobiling. Summer works for lake activities and campfires, though biting insects are more active.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Peak foliage mid-Oct and elk rut late Sept–Oct make fall a top season for visits.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season pricing is applicable during summer months and major hunting seasons such as whitetail rifle season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground remains open during hunting season and throughout the summer months. Fall visits are frequently mentioned for scenic leaf viewing.

About Parker Dam State Park

Parker Dam State Park sits within 968 acres of Moshannon State Forest in Northern Clearfield County, offering tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and primitive camping around a small dam-created lake. The park is a gateway to the remote Quehanna Wilderness and Pennsylvania elk country. Sites run $5-75 per night. Cell service is nonexistent.

Parker Dam State Park accommodates a range of camping preferences, from primitive and tent camping to RV sites with hookups and rustic cabins.

Historical Significance

The Civilian Conservation Corps built the cabins, trails, and museum structures here during the Great Depression. Their work shaped the park's current layout and infrastructure.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions, with peak foliage in mid-October and daytime temperatures in the 45-60°F range. Nights drop into the 30s and 40s. The elk rut runs late September through early October, adding wildlife viewing to the leaf-peeping. Weekends get busy but the campground stays manageable. Winter opens up skating on the frozen lake, sledding, and snowmobiling. Summer works for lake activities and campfires, though biting insects are more active.

ElevationPerched in the highlands of northern Clearfield County, Parker Dam State Park offers the refreshing mountain air and elevated vistas that Pennsylvania's high country is known for. While specific elevation isn't documented, visitors will feel the subtle climb as they ascend into this mountain refuge, where cooler temperatures and clearer skies reward those who venture upward.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park centers on a small lake bordered by recovering hardwood forest. Previous tornado damage has given way to regenerating woods that provide habitat for elk, bobcats, and raccoons. A sandy beach sits along the shore. The elevation of 1,663 feet places the park in Pennsylvania's northern tier forest belt, where rolling terrain and dense canopy define the landscape. Wildlife sightings are common, especially elk during fall rut season.

Geological RegionCradled within the expansive Moshannon State Forest in Northern Clearfield County, Parker Dam State Park stands as a threshold between civilization and wilderness. Here, the recovering forests tell stories of nature's power and resilience, while serving as a corridor to Pennsylvania's renowned elk country. The park's position as a gateway to the remote Quehanna Wilderness places visitors at the heart of one of Pennsylvania's most ecologically significant regions.

Scenic ViewsScenic views include the tranquil lake, surrounding forest, and vibrant fall colors. The dam area offers unique, rocky vistas.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe park offers rustic cabins and cottages, including the unique octagonal Tyler Cabin. Cabins are described as cozy, clean, and equipped with fireplaces and basic amenities, making them ideal for unplugging and enjoying nature.

Programs & ActivitiesThe park hosts events such as the conservation festival and features an on-site CCC Museum.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in details are not explicitly provided.

Check-out

Check-out details are not explicitly provided.

Stay Limit

Occupants may stay for one week during whitetail rifle season or other peak times.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.

Groups

Group camping is available, with group tenting areas equipped with vault toilets.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground mixes tent sites, cabin areas, and CCC-era rustic cabins with paved parking pads. Reviews describe the layout as spacious and clean, though specific loop structure and site spacing details aren't available from the data.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via official Pennsylvania State Parks platforms or by contacting the park office directly.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe park allows walk-up reservations, but availability may vary during peak seasons especially for cabins and pavilions.

Cancellation PolicyReservations may not be transferred or assigned.

AccessibilityThe campground provides ADA-accessible sites and restrooms. There are paved paths accessible for wheelchairs and accessible features at high-use amenities like the beach area.

Site SizeSpecific details on site sizes were not provided; user reviews suggest a mix of spacious and smaller sites.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some sites are described as secluded while others are closer together. User reviews for sites 109 and 110 mention seclusion.

Recommended SitesSites 109 and 110 are described as secluded and close to scenic trails and the dam area.

Best CampsitesSites 109 and 110 are mentioned in reviews for seclusion. Cabin #3 gets consistent recommendations from families looking to unplug. Privacy varies across the campground, with some sites closer together than others.

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Amenities available

Parker Dam State Park offers a comprehensive range of amenities, combining rustic charm with modern conveniences. It features ADA sites, accessible restrooms, flush toilets, hot showers, and a sanitation dumping station. There is also a food concession store on-site and seasonal refreshment stands near the beach. Additional amenities include a coin-operated laundromat, boat mooring, interpretive displays and programs, and a park office. For outdoor recreation, there is a playground, skating areas, sledding spots, and snowmobile trails. However, user reviews highlight that there is no cell phone service or Wi-Fi, making it an excellent destination for those seeking a digital detox.

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Parker Dam State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for every season. Visitors can swim, hike, fish, kayak, and enjoy wildlife viewing. Winter activities include ice skating, sledding, and snowmobiling. The park also hosts cultural and educational programs, including events like the conservation festival.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife like bobcats and raccoons may visit campsites, requiring food to be stored securely. Reviews mention snakes and the steep single boat launch ramp.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, but reviews emphasize the importance of securing food due to wildlife.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced between 9 PM and 8 AM.

Emergency ServicesGreater than 10 miles away are the nearest hospitals. Ranger station contact is available at 8147650630.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, with campers required to clean up their sites before departing.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located near a scenic lake that includes a small sandy beach for swimming, fishing areas, and a mooring section.

Camp HostReviews offer mixed feedback about campground hosts, with some described as unfriendly or overly strict while others are helpful.

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

132 reviews

Recommended

Parker Dam State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Parker Dam State Park are overwhelmingly positive, praising the park's natural beauty, variety of activities, and well-maintained facilities. Some common concerns include lack of cell service and occasional cleanliness issues in the bathrooms.

Review Summaries

Based on 132 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors highlight the park's stunning lake, well-maintained trails, abundant wildlife, and family-friendly amenities like the beach, playgrounds, and picnic pavilions. The cabins receive praise for...

Based on 132 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include lack of cell service, unclean bathrooms during peak times, and limited potable water availability in some areas. Some users also reported unfriendly campground hosts.

Based on 132 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 109 and 110 are noted for their seclusion and proximity to trails. Site 54 is described as small. Group tenting areas are equipped with vault toilets.

Based on 132 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend arriving early to enjoy a full day of activities, carrying cash for concessions, and securing food to avoid wildlife disturbances. Cabins are suggested for those seeking comfort...

Based on 132 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are popular for fishing, boating, and hiking, while fall brings spectacular foliage and quieter surroundings. Winter offers unique activities like sledding and snowmobiling, with...

Based on 132 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The main attraction is the Dam which you can easily cross from one end to the other on huge rocks.' 2. 'The park hosts lots of great events but my favorite is the conservation festival.' 3. 'The...

Based on 132 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park is praised for having ADA-accessible sites and restrooms, as well as paved paths that accommodate wheelchairs.

Based on 132 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park is pet-friendly with designated areas for visitors with pets. However, some complaints were noted about campground hosts monitoring pet-related rules.

Based on 132 reviews

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Parker Dam State Park

$5.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cabins are available for rent, with some reviews citing costs like $75 for premium amenities during peak season. Firewood is available at $5 per...

Premium Site Fee$75.00

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

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

8147650630

Go if

Fall leaf-peepers and elk-watchers get the best of this place, especially from sites 109 or 110 near the trails. Spring trout fishing on the lake is also a real draw, with one reviewer pulling 17 in a single outing.

Skip if

No cell service is total here, not spotty, plan accordingly. Hosts get mixed reviews for being overly strict, bathrooms get rough during summer peak, and the camp store won't cover you beyond the basics.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.2

(50)

Simon B Elliott State Park

C/O PARKER DAM STATE PARK, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States

Simon B. Elliott State Park sits in Moshannon State Forest near Clearfield, where swamp meadows punctuate second-growth hardwood and oak stands. The 25-site campground runs $28-60/night and welcomes tents, RVs, and pets. Cell service works here. Civilian Conservation Corps stone and timber buildings dot the grounds, though campers come for the quiet more than the amenities.

Parker Dam State Park

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Parker Dam State Park

Best Time to Camp at Parker Dam State Park

Planning Tips

About Parker Dam State Park

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Amenities available

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Common Concerns

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Best Time to Camp at Parker Dam State Park

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