Outflow Recreation Area (Pa)

4.07

115 reviews

TIONESTA LAKE PO BOX 539, Tionesta, PA 16353, USA

Quick Facts

1,070 ft

Price

$24 - $46/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Open season starts A...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens US Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,070 ft

Price

$24 - $46/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Open season starts A...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens US Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Outflow Recreation Area (Pa)

$24.00 - $46.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates range from $24 to $46 per night, depending on site type. Non-peak season rates range from $24 to $30 per night. Out of season...

Standard Site Fee$24.00

Hookup Site Fee$46.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$45.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

814-755-3512jason.a.bowers@usace.army.mil

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What Campers Say

4.07

Satisfactory

Based on 115 reviews

65 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanrestrooms

Some mention

small

"The Outflow Recreation Area Campground has received mixed but predominantly positive reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.91 out of 5 for campgrounds. Common themes include well-maintained facilities, scenic surroundings, and a peaceful atmosphere, although some campers have raised concerns about site spacing and maintenance."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

TIONESTA LAKE PO BOX 539, Tionesta, PA 16353, USA

Outflow Recreation Area (Pa)

TIONESTA LAKE PO BOX 539, Tionesta, PA 16353, USA

Driving directionsFrom Pittsburgh, take I-79 North and merge onto I-80 East exit 116a toward Clarion for 9.8 miles. Use the PA-8 exits 29 toward Barkeyville, turn left onto PA-8/State Route 8 for 16.4 miles. Turn right on US-62 and continue for 34 miles. Turn right onto 36 South into Tionesta. At the stop sign, take 36 south for 2.0 miles to South Elm Street and drive for 1.5 miles into the Outflow Recreation Area. From Warren, take US-62 South for 30 miles, then turn left onto South Elm Street and follow for 1.5 miles into the Outflow Recreation Area.

Road access is good and paved; however, reviews indicate that some areas leading into the campground have potholes that need maintenance. Seasonal closures may apply.

Nearby places

Tionesta (approx. 2 miles, 5 min drive)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Tionesta, 2 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Outflow Recreation Area (Pa)

Each season paints a different masterpiece at Outflow Recreation Area. Summer brings warm, comfortable days perfect for creek-side relaxation, though afternoon showers occasionally sweep through to refresh the forest. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a kaleidoscope of fall colors. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy camper prepared for freezing temperatures. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, offering ideal conditions for those eager to shake off winter's chill.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer praised for warm days, wildlife viewing, and boating; summer reviews very positive.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open through October with good scenic views and wildlife; fall scenery well regarded.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring praised for wildlife viewing, hiking and boating; reviewers note strong spring experiences.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Oct 31–Apr 1; winter use limited/closed.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 1 to September 30 for peak season; October 1 to October 31 for non-peak.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season starts April 1 and ends October 31 (reservable). Out of season period runs from October 31 to April 1.
Current Alerts: Seasonal closures apply to water and restroom facilities before May 1. The campground has experienced erosion and flooding in certain areas in the past.

About Outflow Recreation Area (Pa)

Discover your perfect wilderness retreat at Outflow Recreation Area, where the gentle waters of Tionesta Creek create a natural soundtrack for your camping adventure. Tucked away in the heart of Forest County, Pennsylvania, this serene campground serves as your gateway to world-class big game hunting, pristine fishing waters, and miles of scenic hiking trails. With the vast Allegheny National Forest and the ancient groves of Cooks Forest State Park as your neighbors, you'll find yourself immersed in one of Pennsylvania's most spectacular outdoor playgrounds.

The campground supports a diverse range of camping styles, including tent camping, standard electric sites, and group shelter electric sites. Seasonal site variations and pricing details are well-documented.

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in centuries of human stories. Long before European settlers arrived, the Seneca Indians called this home, naming it 'where the water separates the land' - a poetic description that still rings true today. A century ago, the whistle of narrow gauge railways echoed through these valleys as they carried away massive virgin timber, forever changing the landscape. Today, the regenerated forest stands as a testament to nature's resilience and the enduring connection between people and this remarkable land.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different masterpiece at Outflow Recreation Area. Summer brings warm, comfortable days perfect for creek-side relaxation, though afternoon showers occasionally sweep through to refresh the forest. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a kaleidoscope of fall colors. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a wonderland for the hardy camper prepared for freezing temperatures. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing streams, offering ideal conditions for those eager to shake off winter's chill.

ElevationThe campground rests among the rugged hills of northwestern Pennsylvania, where rolling terrain creates endless opportunities for adventure. These ancient hills offer challenging hikes that reward you with sweeping vistas, hidden valleys perfect for wildlife spotting, and varying elevations that keep every trail interesting. Whether you're seeking a gentle morning walk or a heart-pumping afternoon climb, the varied topography delivers experiences for every skill level.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where rugged hills embrace dense forests and Tionesta Creek winds its way through the valley like a silver ribbon. The campground sits at the heart of an ecological wonderland where white-tailed deer emerge at dawn from misty meadows, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and the distinctive call of ospreys echoes across the water. Keep your eyes peeled for nocturnal visitors like opossums exploring the twilight hours. This rich tapestry of forest and stream creates endless opportunities for wildlife photography, nature observation, and quiet contemplation.

Geological RegionPerched within the dramatic hills of northwestern Pennsylvania, Outflow Recreation Area showcases the region's remarkable geological diversity along the banks of Tionesta Creek. This ecological crossroads benefits from its prime location, surrounded by a patchwork of protected public lands including the expansive Allegheny National Forest, the primeval Cooks Forest State Park, and the wild expanses of Cornplanter and Clear Creek State Forests. Together, these interconnected wilderness areas create one of the East's largest continuous forest ecosystems, offering campers unparalleled access to diverse habitats, from creek valleys to ridgetop vistas.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 nights within any 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 2 vehicles and 1 wheeled camper plus 1 tent per campsite or 2 tents.

Groups

Group sites are available, including shelter electric sites. Specific details regarding capacity are not provided, but group accommodations are part of the site's offerings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of numbered loops, with sites near Tionesta Creek offering better views. Other sites face open fields or are densely clustered.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, mobile app, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping is available but payment must be made at the Tionesta Recreation Area booth or via Recreation.gov before parking.

Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations will additionally forfeit the first night's fee. Modifications, such as changing dates or sites, may incur a $10 fee.

AccessibilityThe campground features accessible flush toilets, parking, showers, and a playground. User reviews did not specifically highlight accessibility experiences.

Site SizeTent sites are described as generally spacious. Some reviews mention that while the majority of sites are adequately sized, some are 'really small,' and a few are rocky or poorly maintained.

PrivacyThe privacy at campsites is mixed. While some campers appreciated the spacing, stating 'Sites spaced a good distance apart,' others found that many sites were 'very close to each other, with little to no screening between.' Sites closer to the creek were noted for their better views and ambiance.

Total Campsites40 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near the creek are preferred for their tranquility and scenic beauty. Avoid sites close to the highway to minimize noise.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a variety of recreational activities both on-site and nearby. Visitors can engage in fishing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The location's proximity to natural features like the Allegheny National Forest adds to its appeal.

HikingThe campground provides access to hiking trails. Brittany Fisher mentioned, 'For anyone looking for a place to stay that's close to Kellettville to see the synchronous fireflies, this place is only about 30 mins away,' suggesting accessible and scenic trails in the vicinity.

FishingFishing is a popular activity, as highlighted by multiple users. Fred Baer stated, 'Nice little campground! ... and good fishing!' The area is suitable for a variety of fishing experiences, though specific details about fish species are not mentioned.

BoatingBoating is available from the campground, making it an attractive spot for water-based recreation. Richard Johns commented, 'Fishing boating and kayaking are all available from this place.'

Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, including white-tailed deer, porcupines, wild turkeys, ospreys, and opossums. The natural environment provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include muddy terrain and some campsites being prone to flooding. Wildlife like opossums and porcupines may be present.

Active AlertsSeasonal closures apply to water and restroom facilities before May 1. The campground has experienced erosion and flooding in certain areas in the past.

Fire PolicyCampfires must be contained within the designated fire rings available at each campsite.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not strictly enforced; user reviews report noise disturbances during early mornings and late nights.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services located in Tionesta, which is approximately 2 miles away. Includes police stations and local healthcare facilities.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative or user-provided sources.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Tionesta Creek, which is ideal for fishing and kayaking. However, its shores are not suitable for swimming or picnicking.

Camp HostFriendly campground hosts are available for assistance, but reviews indicate they may not always be present to check campers in.

Weather at Outflow Recreation Area (Pa)

Reviews

4.1

115 reviews

Satisfactory

Outflow Recreation Area (Pa) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Outflow Recreation Area Campground has received mixed but predominantly positive reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.91 out of 5 for campgrounds. Common themes include well-maintained facilities, scenic surroundings, and a peaceful atmosphere, although some campers have raised concerns about site spacing and maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 115 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently praised the clean restrooms, scenic views, and available recreational activities. Julianna Brinskelle noted, 'We absolutely loved it here. ... the bathrooms were fairly well kept,...

Based on 115 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns include closely spaced campsites, occasional maintenance issues, and limited privacy. For example, David Fawcett stated, 'Beautiful place, friendly host, but the sites are too close...

Based on 115 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend booking early during peak seasons due to the campground's popularity. Sites near the creek are described as more desirable for their views and ambiance. One user highlighted the...

Based on 115 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer received the highest praise for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities like hiking and boating. Winter conditions and off-season closures appeared to affect the usability of some...

Based on 115 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great Camping site nestled in woods with clean restrooms.' - Pranav Deshpande 2. 'The sites backing up to the creek were the best.' - Jen G. 3. 'Amazing campground will definitely recommend...

Based on 115 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites near the creek are highly recommended. Jen G. mentioned, 'The sites backing up to the creek were the best,' while others noted that sites further from the creek lacked views. Some complaints...

Based on 115 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as accessible showers and toilets are mentioned, but there is little specific user feedback regarding experiences for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 115 reviews