Small Loop Campground

Small Loop Campground, nestled within the sprawling 13,050-acre expanse of Ricketts Glen State Park in Benton, Pennsylvania, offers one of the most scenic and sought-after outdoor experiences in the Keystone State. Known primarily as the "electric loop" of the park's camping facilities, this specific section is a favorite for those who want to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Endless Mountains without completely disconnecting from modern conveniences. Whether you are arriving with a high-tech RV or a traditional tent, Small Loop provides a well-maintained basecamp that places you just minutes away from some of the most spectacular natural wonders in the eastern United States.

The campground is positioned on a picturesque peninsula, bordered by the tranquil waters of Lake Jean. While the "Big Loop" is often celebrated for its lakeside sites, Small Loop is distinguished by its year-round availability and its robust electrical infrastructure. For local Pennsylvania residents, this means the camping season doesn't have to end when the leaves fall; Small Loop remains a bastion for winter camping, ice fishing, and quiet retreats into the snowy woods. The atmosphere is professional yet deeply connected to nature, offering a peaceful respite where the only sounds are the rustling of old-growth timber and the distant call of bald eagles nesting near the lake.

Small Loop Campground is located at the intersection of Small Loop and Campground Road within Ricketts Glen State Park, Benton, PA 17814. It is approximately 30 miles north of Bloomsburg and is easily accessible via PA 487. However, local travelers and those coming from southern regions of Pennsylvania should be aware that the section of PA 487 from Red Rock to the Lake Jean area is exceptionally steep. It is highly recommended that heavy trailer units and large RVs avoid this incline and instead enter the park from the north by taking PA 487 south from Dushore. This ensures a safer and more manageable journey to your campsite.

Once inside the park, the campground is clearly marked and features a layout that balances accessibility with the preservation of the natural landscape. On-site parking is provided at each campsite, and there is additional parking available for guests and extra vehicles near the shower house. The campground is designed to be inclusive, offering wheelchair-accessible parking and facilities. Its proximity to the Lake Jean beach area means that campers can enjoy a short, scenic walk to the water without needing to move their vehicles, making it an ideal choice for families with small children or those with limited mobility.

• RV sites equipped with 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups to power modern appliances and climate control.
• Traditional tent sites featuring level gravel pads and designated areas for outdoor setups.
• Modern restroom facilities with flush toilets and warm, high-pressure showers located centrally within the loop.
• Individual picnic tables and heavy-duty fire rings provided at every campsite for outdoor dining and evening gatherings.
• Access to a sanitary dump station located conveniently near the campground entrance for RV maintenance.
• On-site drinking water with multiple faucets distributed throughout the loop for easy access.
• Year-round camping availability on select sites, providing a rare opportunity for winter outdoor recreation.
• Proximity to the park’s amphitheater, where seasonal interpretive programs and nature talks are held.

The primary highlight of staying at Small Loop Campground is its immediate access to the world-famous Falls Trail. This 7.2-mile loop is widely considered the most beautiful hiking trail in Pennsylvania, featuring 22 named waterfalls that cascade through ancient rock-strewn clefts. The tallest of these, Ganoga Falls, drops a staggering 94 feet. Campers at Small Loop can reach the trailhead easily, allowing them to beat the crowds that often arrive during peak summer weekends. The trail provides a rigorous but rewarding adventure through the Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark filled with old-growth timber and diverse wildlife including black bears and porcupines.

In addition to the waterfalls, the 245-acre Lake Jean serves as a central hub for summer recreation. Campers can take advantage of the 600-foot sand beach for swimming or visit the boat rental concession to spend a day on the water in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboat. For those who enjoy fishing, the lake is well-stocked with warm-water game fish such as bass and pickerel. The campground’s location on the peninsula means you are never more than a few hundred yards from a stunning view of the water or a trailhead, making every morning a new opportunity for discovery.

• Proximity to 22 stunning waterfalls, including the magnificent 94-foot Ganoga Falls.
• Electric hookups at most sites, a feature not found in the park's larger "Big Loop" area.
• A family-friendly environment with safe, slow-speed roads perfect for children on bicycles.
• Year-round access for winter activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.
• A designated pet-friendly area, allowing you to bring your dogs along for the adventure.
• Beautifully shaded sites that provide a cool canopy during the hot Pennsylvania summers.
• Access to the Lake Jean beach and concession stand for snacks, ice cream, and supplies.

If you are planning a trip to Ricketts Glen, it is highly recommended to reserve your spot in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks system. You can reach the park office for local conditions and inquiries at:

• Address: Small Lp and Campground Rd (Inside Ricketts Glen State Park), Benton, PA 17814, USA
• Phone: (570) 477-5675
• Reservations: 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757)

Small Loop Campground is worth choosing because it offers the perfect balance of "roughing it" and modern convenience. While Ricketts Glen is a rugged and wild environment, having access to electricity and warm showers allows you to extend your stay comfortably, regardless of the weather. It is particularly worth choosing for RV owners who require power but still want to be in the heart of the state’s most scenic park. The intimate size of the Small Loop makes it feel quieter and more private than many commercial campgrounds, fostering a genuine connection with the surrounding wilderness.

Furthermore, the year-round capability of this loop makes it a unique asset for Pennsylvania residents. While most campgrounds in the region shutter their doors in October, Small Loop allows you to experience the park in its "quiet season," when the waterfalls turn to ice and the trails are hushed by snow. Whether you are there to conquer the Falls Trail, fish on Lake Jean, or simply enjoy a quiet fire under the stars, Small Loop Campground provides a high-quality, reliable, and profoundly beautiful setting that represents the very best of Pennsylvania’s state park system. It is a destination that promises memories as enduring as the old-growth forests that surround it.