If you’re touring Western Pennsylvania and a campground is your destination, you can’t go wrong selecting Bear Run Campground (184 Badger Hill Road; Portersville, Pennsylvania 16051; toll-free 888-737-2605). I had the opportunity to visit last fall after the season was technically done, but it was enough to make me want to return this year during the summer season. The 2014 season runs from 4/11/14 until 10/31/14.

Operated by the Wehr family since 1975, this family friendly campground has received all sorts of accolades and is highly rated by the major camping associations:

  • Good Sam Club rated them “Top 100 Parks in North America”
  • Woodall’s Rated:  Five W’s/facilities and Five W’s/recreation
  • Trailer Life Rated: 9.5/9.0/9.0

Be sure to check ahead before you make reservations, they have all sorts of special packages and weekly special events you might not want to miss. They are also close to many popular tourist attractions.

Got a large group?  Inquire about their group facilities:

  • The Silver Ridge Pavilion will accommodate up 80 people
  • Porter’s Landing can handle up to 175 people
  • Coach Haus can take another 50

Click here to view their brochure.

Big Agnes tent at Bear Run Campground

I spent a chilly night there in November while road testing a new Big Agnes tent. They were kind enough to let me spend the night and what a beautiful spot it was. The leaves were starting to fall and the moon brightly lit a large horse pasture just behind my site.

Log cabin at Bear Run Campground

Right across from my site number 12, was log cabin number 6, with a view down to the spring time trout pond.

Trailers at Bear Run Campground

Many campers leave their trailers or RV’s here year-round and the grounds are beautiful no matter what the season.  Fall’s my favorite, but this is a great location no matter what month. Full hookups are available with 20/30/50 amp electric service.

Fall season in Bear Run Campground

With lots of open space, there’s room for kids to play, to spread out a picnic blanket or just sit under a tree and ponder life. The campground is directly adjacent to the 16,000 acre Moraine State Park and the boat launch lets you kayak or canoe out into Lake Arthur and its 42 miles of shoreline. Rentals are available from Bear Run.

Pet area at Bear Run Campground

A pet-friendly campground, there’s a large fenced-in area for dogs to socialize and exercise off their leash. Pets can occupy the RV and tenting sites, but are not allowed in the rental cabins, trailers or public buildings. A pet deposit is required.

Play area at Bear Run Campground

Recreational areas abound for the younger set including a nice-sized heated pool for all ages. They’ll love the King Kong jungle playground, sports court, disk golf and bag toss.

Game room at Bear Run Campground

Located right next to the registration office, the arcade includes pool tables, pinball and a variety of video games. It’s a perfect place to hang out if the weather turns sour.

Store at Bear Run Campground

The office/general store is a great place to hang out. With just about any necessity you might have left behind, you’ll also find gift ideas and souvenirs to take back home.

 

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