Chapman State Park
If you're seeking a Pennsylvania campground offering peace, quiet, and pet-friendly sites, Chapman State Park is worth a closer look. Tucked away in the state's northwest and adjacent to the untamed wilderness of Allegheny National Forest, it's a tranquil campground with easy access to a wide range of recreational activities.
The campground itself features 82 campsites set in heavily wooded surroundings. Modern restrooms and a dump station are provided, and the campground is open from mid-April to mid-December.
Please note that pets are only permitted on sites 1-43, so you'll need to make sure you've selected a pet-friendly site when reserving your spot. Dogs are also welcome in Camping Cottage #1, which features bunk beds for five people, electricity, a picnic table, and a fire ring.
There's no entrance fee for Pennsylvania state parks, but camping costs vary depending on the type of accommodation you select. It's also worth mentioning that if you're staying in the pet-friendly cottage, there is an extra fee of $3 per night.
You'll also need to keep your pet leashed when not confined to your vehicle or accommodation and follow all posted rules on where dogs are and are not permitted. As always, don't forget to clean up after your dog when required.
What should you do during your stay? The highlight for many is 68-acre Chapman Lake. A public boat launch and boat mooring are available, and the peaceful waters are popular with canoeists and kayakers. Anglers can target brook trout, brown trout, largemouth bass and more, while ice fishing is available during winter. For swimmers, a small sandy beach is open from late May until mid-September.
As the campground is set among more than 500,000 acres of forest, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Options include a scenic 1.2-mile Nature Trail designed for hikers of all ages and the more challenging terrain of the 2.75-mile Hunters Ridge Trail.
Picnicking, sledding, ice skating, and bike riding are also on offer, and there's a playground in the camping area.
But perhaps the best feature of Chapman State Park is the serenity. It's something of a hidden gem and is usually uncrowded, so check it out if you're planning a camping vacation to escape the daily grind.
