Pennsylvania’s state parks are more than just scenic getaways, they’re full-fledged outdoor playgrounds perfect for families who love to camp, hike, swim, and explore nature together. Whether you’re pitching a tent or pulling up in an RV, these state parks offer great family-friendly camping, complete with playgrounds, beaches, hiking trails, and kid-approved fun.
1. Cook Forest State Park – Clarion County
Best for: Nature lovers and paddling enthusiasts
Tucked into the northwestern part of the state, Cook Forest is known for its towering old-growth forests, ideal for inspiring a love of the outdoors in kids. Families can explore the Forest Cathedral, paddle the Clarion River, or learn from naturalists at the park’s nature center. Rustic cabins and campgrounds with modern amenities and full-hookup sites make it a cozy base for families.
Family Highlights:
- Dedicated fishing pond stocked with trout available for use by children ages 15 and younger and people with disabilities, with an ADA accessible access pier
- Ranger-led nature programs and discovery hikes
- Canoe and kayak rentals on the Clarion River
2. Pine Grove Furnace State Park – Cumberland County
Best for: Swimming, biking, and trail-side history
Located where the Appalachian Trail crosses the South Mountain, Pine Grove Furnace is perfect for active families who also enjoy a little history. Kids can cool off at two mountain lakes, explore miles of trails, or visit the Appalachian Trail Museum. The campground is quiet, shady, and includes a playground for younger campers with lots of campsite options.
Family Highlights:
- Sandy swimming beaches at Laurel and Fuller Lakes
- Miles of hiking trails, and bike-friendly trails between the lakes
- Boating on Laurel Lake
- Kid-friendly museum and environmental center
- Convenient camp store and bathhouses
- Short drive to Gettysburg National Battlefield
3. Parker Dam State Park – Clearfield County
Best for: Classic camping and quiet lakeside fun
Parker Dam is a serene, lesser-known gem in north-central PA that’s perfect for a laid-back family getaway. The park features a swimming beach, playground, and nature center, as well as wide trails through the Moshannon State Forest. It’s especially great for first-time campers thanks to its smaller size and peaceful environment. The campground offers over 100 sites with full-hookup, electric, and tent options. You can even bring up to two pets on some sites. There are also 17 rustic cabins across the lake from the campground. Located on the Elk Scenic Drive, it’s a quick drive up to the Elk Viewing Center to try and see a Pennsylvania Elk.
Family Highlights:
- Calm swimming area with a sandy beach and snack bar during the summer season
- On-site playground and picnic areas
- Educational programs and kid-friendly exhibits
- Forested hiking trails and family-sized campsites
4. Ohiopyle State Park – Fayette County
Best for: Adventurous families and waterfall chasing
Ohiopyle is the ultimate outdoor adventure hub for active families. While the area is known for whitewater rafting (recommended for older kids and teens), it also has kid-friendly trails like the Ferncliff Trail peninsula loop, a large natural waterslide at Meadow Run, and scenic picnic areas. The campground includes full-hookup, electric and non-electric sites, yurts, cottages, modern restrooms, and a playground.
Family Highlights:
- Natural water slide and wading areas
- Several waterfalls and scenic overlooks
- Playground, bike rentals, and rail-trails
- Evening campfire programs in summer
- A state of the art visitor center with a great view of the falls
5. Prince Gallitzin State Park – Cambria County
Best for: Lakeside camping and boating
Set around the expansive Glendale Lake, Prince Gallitzin is a boating and swimming paradise with a large campground that’s ideal for families. The Crooked Run Campground includes electric and full-hookup sites, a camp store, playgrounds, and access to the beach area, which includes snack bars and shaded picnic tables. Plus, modern cabins and camping cottages are available.
Family Highlights:
- Large swimming beach with family amenities
- Playground and basketball courts near campsites
- Boat rentals, fishing docks, and kayaking
- Paved and wooded hiking and biking trails
6. Blue Knob State Park – Bedford County
Best for: Mountain adventures and cool summer nights
As the second-highest peak in Pennsylvania, Blue Knob offers families a high-altitude retreat with cooler temps in summer and incredible mountain scenery. There’s a small swimming pool, playground, and multi-use trails that are perfect for hiking or mountain biking. The campground is wooded and peaceful with modern restrooms and showers.
Family Highlights:
- Playground near the campground
- Longer hiking trails with scenic views
- Wildlife viewing and picnic pavilions
- Less-crowded, quiet camping areas
7. Promised Land State Park – Pike County
Best for: Boating and back-to-nature experiences
Located in the Pocono Mountains, Promised Land is a peaceful, wooded retreat ideal for boating and swimming. The campground near Lower Lake is well-equipped with electric sites and modern facilities. Families can rent canoes or rowboats, enjoy the two designated beaches, or explore 10+ miles of hiking trails, including short loops suitable for kids.
Family Highlights:
- Boat rentals and fishing piers
- Two family-friendly swimming beaches with snack bar
- Hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate
- Masker Museum with seasonal programs, interactive displays and artifacts
8. Hickory Run State Park – Carbon County
Best for: Bouldering and forest adventures
A go-to park in the Poconos, Hickory Run is home to the awe-inspiring Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark that kids love to explore. With more than 40 miles of trails, there are hikes for all skill levels, including the popular Hawk Falls Trail. Families can cool off at Sand Spring Lake’s beach and then head back to spacious campsites with access to restrooms, showers, and a small camp store.
Family Highlights:
- Boulder Field for scrambling and selfies
- Swimming beach at Sand Spring Lake
- Nature programs and evening campfire talks
- Pet-friendly camping options
Planning Your Adventure
Campsites at Pennsylvania State Parks can be reserved up to 11 months in advance. Be sure to check for amenities like water, electric, and ADA accessibility when booking.
Tips for Family Camping:
- Pack board games or field guides for time in the shade or rainy days
- Bring bikes or scooters for campground cruising
- Look into seasonal park programs like owl prowls, star parties, and scavenger hunts
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re racing down a natural waterslide in Ohiopyle, paddling across a peaceful lake at Parker Dam, or roasting marshmallows under the towering pines of Cook Forest, Pennsylvania’s state parks offer unforgettable memories for families. With affordable campsites and fun around every corner, these parks prove that you don’t have to travel far to enjoy an incredible family vacation.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!