Parker Dam State Park Pennsylvania (PA) RV Rentals

RV Rentals Dates
Home / National & State Park Guides / State Parks /  Parker Dam State Park

Looking for RV rentals, camper van rentals or travel trailer rentals near Parker Dam State Park?


Introduction

Parker Dam State Park is a fantastic spot for RV camping, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and recreational activities for visitors. The park holds significant cultural and historical importance, as it was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s, a New Deal program aimed at providing employment during the Great Depression. This history adds a unique cultural dimension to the park, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

The park’s main attraction, the 20-acre Parker Lake, was formed by the natural occurrence of glacial erosion, resulting in a breathtaking and incredibly unique feature that draws visitors from near and far. The surrounding lush forests and diverse wildlife further contribute to the park’s natural allure, providing a serene and picturesque setting for RV campers to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Parker Dam State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Parker Dam State Park.

RV Rentals in Parker Dam State Park

Transportation

Visitors to Parker Dam State Park can access the park via private vehicle travel with parking available at various trailheads and recreational areas. The park has multiple entrances including the main entrance off of State Route 153 and the Bucktail Natural Area entrance. While there are no specific restrictions on rig sizes visitors should be mindful of narrow and winding roads within the park.

RV parking is available at designated areas within Parker Dam State Park primarily at the campground and the park office. Overnight parking for RVs outside of designated campsites is not permitted. It is recommended to camp with an RV in the park and explore using alternative transportation methods such as hiking and biking to fully experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities within the park.

Parker Dam State Park does not offer public transportation or shuttle buses for getting around the park. However visitors can explore the park using the extensive network of walking paths and hiking trails which provide convenient access to the park’s various attractions and recreational areas. Walking paths offer a scenic and immersive way to experience the natural beauty of the park while enjoying outdoor activities.

Top Campsites in Parker Dam State Park

1. Parker Dam State Park Campground

Located within the park this popular campground offers a serene setting with 78 pet-friendly sites for RVs and tents. Open from April to October the campground provides amenities such as showers restrooms and a dump station. Activities include hiking fishing and wildlife viewing and the campground is known for its beautiful wooded surroundings and proximity to Parker Lake making it a favorite choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Clear Creek State Park Campground

Situated near Parker Dam State Park Clear Creek State Park Campground features 51 pet-friendly sites suitable for RVs and tents. Open from April to October the campground offers amenities such as electric hookups showers and a boat launch. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating fishing and picnicking and the campground’s scenic location along the Clarion River provides a tranquil setting for a relaxing outdoor getaway.

3. Hemlock Campground and Cottages

Hemlock Campground and Cottages located near Parker Dam State Park offers 25 pet-friendly sites for RVs and tents as well as cozy cottages for rent. Open from May to October the campground provides amenities including electric hookups restrooms and a camp store. Activities at the campground include swimming hiking and birdwatching and visitors can enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding Hemlock forest.

4. Bucktail Camping Resort

Nestled in the scenic surroundings near Parker Dam State Park Bucktail Camping Resort offers 40 pet-friendly sites for RVs and tents. Open from April to October the campground provides amenities such as full hookups a swimming pool and a playground. Activities include mini-golf volleyball and fishing and the campground’s family-friendly atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular choice for a fun and relaxing outdoor vacation.

1. Bucktail State Park Natural Area

Bucktail State Park Natural Area offers 40 first-come-first-served campsites providing a rustic and tranquil camping experience in a picturesque natural setting. The campsites are open from May to October accommodating tents and small to mid-sized RVs and trailers. While the area does not offer electric hookups campers can enjoy access to restrooms and potable water. Bucktail State Park Natural Area is pet-friendly allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the outdoor adventure.

2. S.B. Elliott State Park Campground

S.B. Elliott State Park Campground features 50 first-come-first-served campsites offering a peaceful retreat for campers seeking a spontaneous outdoor getaway. The campground is open from April to October and can accommodate tents and small to mid-sized RVs and trailers. While the sites do not have electric hookups visitors have access to restrooms and a sanitary dump station. The campground is pet-friendly allowing guests to bring their four-legged friends to enjoy the natural surroundings.

3. Kettle Creek State Park Campground

Kettle Creek State Park Campground provides 35 first-come-first-served campsites welcoming visitors to experience the beauty of the park’s natural surroundings on a spontaneous basis. The campground is open from April to October and can accommodate tents and small to mid-sized RVs and trailers. While the sites do not offer electric hookups campers have access to restrooms and a sanitary dump station. Kettle Creek State Park Campground is pet-friendly allowing guests to bring their pets along to enjoy the outdoor adventure.

If campsites within Parker Dam State Park are fully booked RV renters have alternative camping options available nearby to ensure they can still enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor recreation in the vicinity. Private campgrounds such as Woodland Campground and Hemlock Hideaway Campground offer additional camping opportunities with amenities including electric hookups shower facilities and recreational activities. These private campgrounds provide a convenient alternative for RV renters seeking a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience.

For those seeking a more rugged and immersive outdoor adventure backcountry camping in the surrounding Moshannon State Forest presents an exciting option. With proper permits and adherence to Leave No Trace principles RV renters can explore the backcountry and set up camp in designated areas allowing them to experience the tranquility of the forest and the opportunity for activities such as hiking wildlife viewing and stargazing. Backcountry camping provides a unique opportunity for RV renters to connect with nature and enjoy a more secluded and off-the-grid camping experience.

Hiking

Parker Dam State Park offers a variety of scenic hiking trails that cater to all skill levels from leisurely nature walks to challenging treks. The popular Bucktail Path provides a 31-mile loop trail leading hikers through diverse landscapes and offering breathtaking views of the park’s natural beauty. Additionally the East Cross Connector Trail and the Rhododendron Trail showcase the park’s lush forests and tranquil surroundings making them favorite choices for hikers seeking to immerse themselves in nature.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts are drawn to Parker Dam State Park for the excellent angling opportunities available at Parker Lake. The 20-acre lake is stocked with a variety of fish species including trout and bass providing a rewarding fishing experience for visitors. Whether casting from the shore or enjoying a peaceful day on the water in a boat anglers can savor the serene and picturesque setting while trying their luck at catching a variety of fish.

Wildlife Viewing

The park’s diverse habitats and abundant wildlife make it a prime destination for wildlife viewing. Visitors can observe a variety of native species including white-tailed deer black bears and a multitude of bird species. The park’s scenic overlooks and quiet woodland trails offer ideal opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to spot and photograph the park’s resident fauna in their natural habitat.

Birdwatching

Birdwatchers flock to Parker Dam State Park to observe the park’s rich avian diversity. The park is home to a wide array of bird species including warblers woodpeckers and raptors. The park’s varied habitats from forests to wetlands provide an ideal environment for birdwatching and visitors can explore the park’s trails and scenic areas to spot and identify the numerous bird species that call the park home.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the park’s rugged terrain and scenic trails such as the Bucktail Path and the East Cross Connector Trail offering an exhilarating and challenging biking experience. The park’s diverse landscapes and winding trails provide an ideal setting for mountain bikers to test their skills and enjoy the natural beauty of the park while embarking on an adventurous outdoor excursion.

Scenic Overlooks

For RV campers seeking a more relaxed way to enjoy the park’s natural beauty scenic overlooks such as the Parker Dam Vista and the Rhododendron Vista offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. These overlooks provide ideal spots for visitors to take in the park’s picturesque scenery snap memorable photos and appreciate the tranquility of the park without engaging in strenuous outdoor activities.

Wildflower Viewing

During the spring and summer months the park comes alive with vibrant wildflowers offering a captivating display of color and beauty. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the park’s trails such as the Rhododendron Trail and the Bucktail Path to admire the diverse array of wildflowers in bloom. These picturesque floral displays provide an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts to appreciate the park’s natural splendor.

Picnicking

For a leisurely and enjoyable outdoor experience RV campers can partake in picnicking at designated areas within the park. The tranquil and scenic surroundings provide an ideal setting for a relaxing picnic amidst nature. Visitors can unwind savor a meal and appreciate the park’s serene ambiance while enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Photography Opportunities

Parker Dam State Park offers an abundance of scenic and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities from tranquil lakeside views to lush forested landscapes. The park’s diverse habitats and natural features provide a wealth of subjects for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning images whether it’s the reflection of the foliage on the lake’s surface or the vibrant colors of the wildflowers in bloom. With its captivating natural beauty the park presents an ideal setting for capturing memorable and visually striking photographs.

Nature Watching

Nature watching provides a peaceful and immersive way for RV campers to appreciate the park’s diverse flora and fauna without engaging in more physically demanding activities. Visitors can relax and observe the park’s wildlife from songbirds and waterfowl to deer and other native species in their natural habitat. The park’s tranquil and scenic surroundings offer an ideal environment for nature enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Season-specific experiences in Parker Dam State Park

Wildflower Viewing

Spring brings an explosion of color to Parker Dam State Park as the park’s meadows and forests come alive with vibrant wildflowers. Take a leisurely stroll along the Rhododendron Trail and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you admire the diverse array of wildflowers in bloom.

Birdwatching

Spring is a fantastic time for birdwatching at Parker Dam State Park as migratory birds return to the area and native species become more active. The park’s varied habitats from woodlands to wetlands provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching with popular spots including the scenic overlooks and the lakeside areas.

Historical Sites

Explore the historical significance of Parker Dam State Park by visiting the remnants of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp which played a vital role in the park’s development during the 1930s. The CCC camp offers a fascinating glimpse into the park’s past and the legacy of the New Deal program.

Photography Opportunities

Springtime at Parker Dam State Park provides captivating scenes for photography enthusiasts with the blooming wildflowers vibrant foliage and the return of migratory birds offering a wealth of subjects for stunning images. The park’s picturesque landscapes and tranquil settings present ideal opportunities for capturing the beauty of the spring season.

Scenic Drives

Enjoy a scenic drive through the park’s winding roads and take in the breathtaking views of the park’s natural beauty. The park’s roads provide access to various scenic overlooks and points of interest allowing RV campers to appreciate the beauty of the park from the comfort of their vehicle during the vibrant spring season.

Swimming and Boating

The summer season offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to cool off and enjoy recreational water activities at Parker Lake. The park’s designated swimming area provides a refreshing escape from the heat while boating enthusiasts can take to the water for a leisurely paddle or a relaxing boat ride.

Camping

Summer is an ideal time for RV campers to indulge in a camping experience at Parker Dam State Park. The park’s campground offers a serene and picturesque setting for overnight stays allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors and enjoy the long warm summer days.

Wildlife Viewing

Summer provides ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to observe the park’s diverse fauna from birdwatching to spotting deer and other native species. The park’s lush forests and meadows come alive with activity during the summer months offering prime conditions for nature watching and wildlife photography.

Hiking and Nature Walks

With the park’s scenic trails and lush woodlands summer is an excellent time for RV campers to embark on hiking adventures and leisurely nature walks. The park’s diverse ecosystems and picturesque landscapes provide a captivating backdrop for outdoor exploration allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park while enjoying the warm summer weather.

Fall Foliage Viewing

The park’s scenic overlooks and hiking trails offer stunning vistas of the fall foliage providing a picturesque backdrop for nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts to capture the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.

Birdwatching

Fall is a prime time for birdwatching at Parker Dam State Park as migratory birds pass through the area offering excellent opportunities for birdwatchers to observe and identify a variety of avian species amidst the stunning fall foliage.

Photography Opportunities

The park’s diverse landscapes and vibrant fall colors provide an ideal setting for capturing stunning images. Photography enthusiasts can take advantage of the park’s scenic beauty to capture the essence of the fall season through captivating photographs.

Hiking and Nature Walks

The park’s hiking trails offer a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the fall season with the colorful foliage and crisp autumn air creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor exploration. RV campers can enjoy leisurely nature walks and invigorating hikes while immersing themselves in the natural splendor of the park during this enchanting time of year.

Cross-Country Skiing

The park’s snowy trails provide an ideal terrain for cross-country skiing allowing outdoor enthusiasts to glide through the winter wonderland while taking in the peaceful and scenic surroundings.

Snowshoeing

Winter provides an excellent opportunity for snowshoeing at Parker Dam State Park with the park’s trails offering a pristine and tranquil setting for snowshoe adventurers to explore the snowy landscapes and enjoy the quiet beauty of the winter season.

Wildlife Tracking

The snow-covered terrain provides an ideal canvas for tracking wildlife offering nature enthusiasts the opportunity to observe animal tracks and signs while gaining insights into the winter behaviors of the park’s native fauna.

Winter Photography

The park’s snow-draped landscapes and serene winter scenes present captivating opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the tranquil beauty of the winter season from snow-covered trails to frost-kissed foliage and serene lakeside vistas.

CODE: RVTHEREYET at checkout
(Limited time offer- expires soon)
10% OFF RV Rental*
CODE: RVTHEREYET at checkout
(Limited to Spring promotion only)
10% OFF RV Rental*