How much does camping cost at Whipple Dam State Park?

Camping fees at Whipple Dam State Park range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

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

Whipple Dam State Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Null

Can I see photos of campsites at Whipple Dam State Park before I book?

Yes! Whipple Dam State Park has 4 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 Whipple Dam State Park?

Whipple Dam State Park is open Null. 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 Whipple Dam State Park?

Whipple Dam State Park does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Whipple Dam State Park?

Fire policies at Whipple Dam State Park: The park has fire rings available within the picnic areas.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Whipple Dam State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Whipple 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 Whipple Dam State Park?

Whipple Dam State Park offers: Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Whipple Dam State Park?

Popular activities at Whipple 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.

Whipple Dam State Park

4.00

9 reviews

15795 GREENWOOD ROAD, HUNTINGDON, Pennsylvania, 16652, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping Pennsylvania

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,047 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Pennsylvania State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,047 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Pennsylvania State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Whipple Dam State Park

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There are no campsites at Whipple Dam State Park, so no camping fees apply.

No paid fee categories listed.

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I manage this campground

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Campground Map

15795 GREENWOOD ROAD, HUNTINGDON, Pennsylvania, 16652, United States

Whipple Dam State Park

15795 GREENWOOD ROAD, HUNTINGDON, Pennsylvania, 16652, United States

Nearby places

State College (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Greater than 1 mile to the nearest camp store.

Weather at Whipple Dam State Park

Best Time to Camp at Whipple Dam State Park

Fall offers crisp, comfortable weather with daytime highs commonly 50–65°F and nights dropping to 30–45°F. The park's mixed hardwoods reach peak color in October, making lakeside hikes and photography especially rewarding. Water activities taper off but fishing and quiet paddling remain excellent as crowds thin, and mosquitoes are largely gone. Expect moderate weekend visitation from leaf-peepers but plenty of peaceful stretches on weekdays. Winter transforms the lake into a frozen surface you can walk across, though roads can ice over. Summer warms the swimming water and brings the most visitors.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Peak October foliage, lakeside hikes and reflective views make fall a highlight.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round for day use.

About Whipple Dam State Park

Whipple Dam State Park sits on 256 acres in northeastern Huntingdon County, about 30 minutes from State College. The park centers on a small lake surrounded by mixed hardwood forest and offers a mix of water-based recreation and quiet trails. It's primarily a day-use park with picnic facilities, though the peaceful setting and variety of activities draw repeat visitors year-round.

Whipple Dam State Park provides day-use facilities and does not feature camping accommodations like campsites, cabins, or yurts.

Weather and SeasonsFall offers crisp, comfortable weather with daytime highs commonly 50–65°F and nights dropping to 30–45°F. The park's mixed hardwoods reach peak color in October, making lakeside hikes and photography especially rewarding. Water activities taper off but fishing and quiet paddling remain excellent as crowds thin, and mosquitoes are largely gone. Expect moderate weekend visitation from leaf-peepers but plenty of peaceful stretches on weekdays. Winter transforms the lake into a frozen surface you can walk across, though roads can ice over. Summer warms the swimming water and brings the most visitors.

ElevationThe park's gentle terrain welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities to explore its natural wonders without strenuous climbs.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park's centerpiece is a calm lake bordered by dense forest that shelters songbirds and small wildlife. The water stays clear and still most days, creating mirror-like reflections that visitors frequently photograph. Mixed hardwoods, including oak and maple, blanket the surrounding ridges. The terrain rolls gently, typical of central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley topography, with elevation around 1,047 feet. In October, the hardwoods turn vivid reds and golds that reflect across the lake surface.

Geological RegionTucked into the northeastern corner of Huntingdon County, Whipple Dam State Park showcases the gentle beauty of central Pennsylvania's ridge and valley region. The landscape unfolds in soft, rolling contours where mixed hardwood forests embrace the serene lake, creating a harmonious blend of water and woodland that characterizes this peaceful corner of the Keystone State.

Scenic ViewsThe lake provides scenic and tranquil views. Reflective waters during the fall and the surrounding forest enhance the visual appeal.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive and educational programs are available at the park.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

The park allows day use only.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe park is primarily day-use with picnic tables scattered throughout and what one reviewer calls 'picnic corrals,' likely sheltered group areas.

Reservation PlatformsNull

Walk-in AvailabilityNull

Cancellation PolicyNull

Recommended SitesNull

Amenities available

Whipple Dam State Park offers a variety of amenities including biking, a boat launch, boating opportunities, interpretive programs, a fishing pier, and hunting. Visitors can enjoy picnic tables, potable water, fire rings, and public restrooms. "Each leads to a picnic table down the hill in the woods," one user noted. Additionally, amenities include a shoreline mooring, a volleyball court, and a beach swimming area. Some amenities, such as the camp store, are located over a mile away.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The park provides a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming at the beach, and boating. Winter visitors have noted opportunities to walk on the frozen lake. Visitors also enjoy bird-watching and picnicking by the lake.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsIcy roads in winter can make driving difficult, as mentioned in user reviews. The frozen lake also presents potential hazards.

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

From Booking Sources

4.0

9 reviews

Satisfactory

Whipple Dam State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The park is praised for its scenic beauty, tranquility, and range of outdoor activities. It is described as a peaceful and clean destination. Winter activities like walking on the frozen lake are noted as unique experiences.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Common themes include the serene environment, cleanliness, and a variety of activities like boating, swimming, and hiking. "Great and superb and awe-inspiring and amazing," one user said.

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of clarity in pet policies, specifically regarding dogs on the beach.

Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

None, as there are no designated campsites.

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Plan visits during summer for the best experience. Early morning visits are recommended for photography and tranquility. Confirm pet policies before arrival.

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park transforms significantly across seasons. In summer, it is vibrant and full of activities. In fall, the area boasts beautiful foliage. Winter offers unique experiences like walking on the...

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Lovely place. I had been to the beach around 2 years ago." 2. "Beautiful fall colors (mid-October)." 3. "This place is best experienced during summer time."

Based on 9 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Some users noted that the pet policy could be clearer. "Before leaving for the state park, I checked their website for rules on dogs. Only says they need to be on a leash."

Based on 9 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Fall day-trippers, photographers, and families after a clean swim beach will get the most out of this place. Stocked fishing runs year-round, boat rentals are on-site, and the Whipple Lake Trail adds a reason to stay past lunch.

Skip if

No camping, no exceptions. If you're planning an overnight anywhere in this search, this isn't it. Dog owners should also call ahead before assuming beach access is included.

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Greenwood Furnace State Park

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Greenwood Furnace State Park sits on the western edge of Pennsylvania's Seven Mountains near Huntingdon, where 423 acres of park blend into the surrounding 80,000-acre Rothrock State Forest. The 48-site campground offers tent, RV, and group sites with modern amenities. Cell service doesn't exist here, which most campers consider a feature, not a bug.