Hearts Content Campground

Hearts Content Campground offers a serene and historic escape into the heart of the Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania. Established in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this recreation area has long been a favorite for those seeking a tranquil connection with nature. Known for its proximity to one of the few remaining old-growth forests in the northeastern United States, the campground provides a unique opportunity to sleep under a canopy of ancient white pines and hemlocks that have stood for centuries. Whether you are a local resident looking for a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the natural wonders of the Keystone State, this destination serves as a gateway to both peaceful relaxation and rugged adventure.

The atmosphere at Hearts Content is decidedly "semi-primitive," appealing to campers who prefer a more traditional outdoor experience over the modern conveniences of highly developed resorts. The site is characterized by its spacious, well-shaded campsites that offer a significant degree of privacy. It is nestled between the Hickory Creek Wilderness to the south and the Hearts Content National Scenic Area to the north, creating a lush environment filled with native hardwoods and a picturesque pine plantation. This setting makes it an ideal spot for stargazing, as the lack of light pollution reveals a breathtaking view of the night sky, often accompanied by the dance of fireflies during the summer months.

Accessibility and location are key factors for visitors planning a trip to this part of Pennsylvania. Hearts Content Campground is located approximately 15 miles southwest of Warren and about 13 miles west of Sheffield. For those traveling from the Warren area, the most common route involves taking US Route 6 to Pleasant Drive, then continuing onto Hearts Content Road (State Route 2002). The road journey itself is scenic, winding through the rolling hills and dense woodlands of the Allegheny plateau. While the campground feels remote, it remains reachable for standard vehicles, though travelers should be aware that cell service is notoriously spotty in this region, providing a perfect excuse to unplug.

• Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot for the day-use area.
• On-site parking available for both day-use visitors and overnight campers.
• Easy access to the 1.1-mile Interpretive Old-Growth Trail across the road.
• Proximity to the Hickory Creek Wilderness trailhead for long-distance hiking.

The services offered at Hearts Content Campground focus on providing the essentials for a comfortable, though basic, stay. The facility operates seasonally, typically opening on May 1 and closing in late October. During the peak season, a camp host is often on-site to assist guests and offer firewood and ice for sale. There are 26 individual family campsites, along with a primitive group camping area that can accommodate up to 50 people. It is important for visitors to note that there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at the individual sites. However, the campground does provide several communal amenities to support the camping community.

• Pressurized potable water available at several community spigots throughout the grounds.
• Well-maintained vault toilets located conveniently near the camping loops.
• A trailer dump station located at the exit for RV and trailer users.
• Refuse containers for garbage disposal to keep the site clean and wildlife-safe.
• Standard campsites equipped with a tent pad, fire ring, and heavy-duty picnic table.
• Specialized sites (11 and 12) featuring three-sided lean-to shelters for those without tents.

The highlights of a stay at Hearts Content are undoubtedly the natural features and the variety of recreational activities available right from your tent door. The most famous attraction is the Hearts Content National Scenic Area, located directly across the road from the campground entrance. Here, hikers can marvel at 300-to-400-year-old trees with diameters exceeding 40 inches. For the more adventurous, the adjacent Hickory Creek Wilderness offers an 8,663-acre expanse managed for primitive recreation, featuring a 13-mile loop trail that challenges even experienced backpackers. Families with children will appreciate the open fields perfect for lawn games, and the kid-friendly interpretive trails that make learning about forest ecology an engaging experience.

• Hearts Content National Scenic Area: Home to rare old-growth white pine and eastern hemlock.
• Hickory Creek Wilderness: Over 8,000 acres of roadless forest for hiking and solitude.
• Orienteering Course: A permanently marked route for those interested in map and compass navigation.
• Cross-Country Skiing: 10.5 kilometers of trails that utilize old railroad grades during the winter months.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to spot white-tailed deer, black bears, owls, and various songbirds.
• Picnicking: A dedicated day-use area with pavilions and tables for large gatherings.
• Dog-Friendly: Leashed pets are welcome to join their owners on the trails and at the campsites.

If you are planning a visit, you can find the campground at the following location. For reservations, which are highly recommended during the summer weekends, visitors should use the federal reservation system. Reservations can typically be made up to six months in advance. Please note that while the campground is seasonal, the surrounding trails and day-use areas are often accessible year-round for hiking and winter sports.

Address: Unnamed Road (Hearts Content Road/SR 2002), Tidioute, PA 16351, USA

Phone: (814) 362-4613 (Bradford Ranger District Office)

What is worth choosing Hearts Content Campground for? For many, it is the rare combination of historical significance and primitive beauty. Choosing this site means opting for a peaceful environment where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of electricity. It is the ideal choice for those who want to experience the "virgin" timber of Pennsylvania as it appeared hundreds of years ago. Whether you are teaching your children about nature on a kid-friendly hike or seeking the solitude of the wilderness, Hearts Content provides a timeless backdrop for making memories in the great outdoors of Pennsylvania.