Parker Dam State Park

Star4.42
85 reviews
28 FAIRVIEW RD, PENFIELD, Pennsylvania, 15849, United States
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,663 ft

Price

$5 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

The campground remai...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Parker Dam State Park site

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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...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$75.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 85 reviews

1136 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlakebeachfriendly

Some mention

cell service

"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."

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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

Driving directionsFrom I-80, take Exit 111 onto PA 153 North for 5.5 miles. Turn right onto Mud Run Road, and then drive 2.5 miles to the park.
Access is located just off Interstate 80, making it convenient for travelers. Roads to the park are described as good for towing travel trailers, and reviews emphasize ease of access.
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.

Best Time to Camp at Parker Dam State Park

Each season paints Parker Dam in breathtaking new colors. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland where families glide across frozen lakes on skates, race down hills on sleds, and explore frost-covered trails by snowmobile. When autumn arrives, the forest erupts in a symphony of gold, crimson, and amber—making fall the crown jewel of seasons here. Summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for splashing in the lake, gathering around campfires, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, boating, hiking and family activities; reviews positive.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Frequent mentions of spectacular foliage and quieter visits in fall; highly recommended season.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring trout fishing and trail access make it a popular season for anglers and hikers.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Offers ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling though winter activities are more limited than warmer months.

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

Nestled within 968 acres of pristine Pennsylvania wilderness, Parker Dam State Park beckons adventurers with its intimate campground, charming rustic cabins, and a serene lake that mirrors the surrounding forest canopy. This hidden gem serves as your personal gateway to the vast Moshannon State Forest and the untamed beauty of the Quehanna Wilderness areas, where endless trails and discoveries await.
Parker Dam State Park accommodates a range of camping preferences, from primitive and tent camping to RV sites with hookups and rustic cabins.
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Stay Limit
Occupants may stay for one week during whitetail rifle season or other peak times.

Amenities available

Showers
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets

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.
HikingHiking is a highlight at Parker Dam, with trails like the CCC Trail, Laurel Run Trail, and Beaver Dam Trail. Trails vary in difficulty and showcase features like the tornado-damaged area and scenic vistas.
FishingFishing is popular, particularly trout in the spring. One user noted catching 17 trout. The lake is abundant with fish, including bass.
SwimmingThere is a sandy beach area designated for swimming. The beach is described as clean and well-maintained, with amenities like changing rooms and outdoor showers to rinse off the sand.
BikingThe park features mountain biking trails suitable for different skill levels.
BoatingBoating is encouraged on the lake, with facilities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Rentals are available but may be limited at the start of the season.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a prominent feature, with reports of elk sightings. Visitors are advised to secure food to avoid attracting raccoons and bobcats.
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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.

Weather at Parker Dam State Park

Reviews

4.4
85 reviews
Recommended
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 85 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...
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Based on 85 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 85 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...
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Based on 85 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...
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Based on 85 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...
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Based on 85 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 85 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park is praised for having ADA-accessible sites and restrooms, as well as paved paths that accommodate wheelchairs.
Based on 85 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 85 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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