About TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND
Overview Half of Forest County, where Tionesta Lake is located, is preserved as public lands. The region is known as one of Pennsylvania's best big game regions and is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife. Campers come to the Tionesta Recreation Area Campground to enjoy the forested area just below the Tionesta Dam. The area is ideal for fishing as well as scenic hiking. Tionesta is a culturally rich region with a long history. The Seneca Indian tribe named this area "where the water separates the land." Nearly a century ago, narrow gauge railways dotted the surrounding countryside, hauling out virgin timber from the hillsides.Recreation In-season hunting, fishing, boating, hiking and water skiing, are all available from Tionesta. Visitors interested in wildlife viewing are likely to spot white-tailed deer, porcupine, wild turkey, osprey and opossum. Outside the campground entrance is a beach area for swimming and picnicking along Tionesta Creek. No lifeguards are on duty. Facilities A boat ramp and marina are near-by for easy access to water sports. Shower houses and restrooms are located throughout the campground for easy access.Natural Features Tionesta Lake winds its way through the rugged hills of northwestern Pennsylvania. Surrounding public areas include the Allegheny National Forest, Cooks Forest State Park, Cornplanter and Clear Creek State Forests, the state fish hatchery and state game lands. Nearby Attractions Tionesta Creek Road, which winds through the Tionesta Creek valley upstream of the dam, is an excellent scenic drive with spectacular views. The nearby Allegheny National Forest also makes a great day trip.
How to Get There
From Tionesta, PA: Go 0.5 mile south on SR 36 and follow signs into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND
Heading to TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233573) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND?
From Tionesta, PA: Go 0.5 mile south on SR 36 and follow signs into the campground.
How do I contact TIONESTA REC. AREA CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 814-755-3512.
References & Official Resources
