Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground

Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground is a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene escape within the heart of the Allegheny National Forest. Located just south of Kane, Pennsylvania, this campground offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural splendor. Originally the site of the McKean Chemical Company in the early 20th century, the area was transformed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1936 into a premier recreational hub. Today, the Upper Campground loop provides a more secluded and shaded alternative to the bustling lower areas, making it a favorite for local Pennsylvanians who appreciate a quiet woodland atmosphere.

The campground is set against the backdrop of the Allegheny Plateau, characterized by lush hardwood forests of black cherry and maple. This specific loop, added in the 1960s, was designed to immerse campers in the dense canopy of the forest. Whether you are a local from Elk County or traveling from across the state, the atmosphere here is defined by the sounds of the meandering Hoffman Run and the tranquil environment that has been preserved for generations. It serves as an ideal basecamp for families and hikers who want to explore the extensive trail systems of northwestern Pennsylvania while maintaining a sense of privacy and peace.

Location and accessibility are important considerations for visitors to Twin Lakes. Situated at Forest Road 290 in Kane, PA, the campground is accessible via State Route 321. However, travelers should be aware of a specific navigational detail: the entrance road (Forest Road 191) features a historic railroad underpass with a strictly enforced 10-foot height clearance. This limits the size of vehicles that can enter through the primary gate, making the Upper Campground particularly well-suited for tents, pop-up campers, and small RVs. For larger rigs, alternative routes like Clarion Road to Dahoga Road are often utilized to bypass the low bridge. Once inside, the campground offers hardened parking spurs and well-defined paths that accommodate wheelchair access to primary amenities.

• Shaded tent sites featuring level pads and natural forest screening for privacy.
• RV camping sites equipped with electric hookups (30-amp) in select locations.
• Individual site amenities including sturdy picnic tables and heavy-duty fire rings.
• Access to pressurized water fountains and hand pumps providing potable water.
• Modern vault toilets and centrally located public restroom facilities.
• Trailer dump station available for RV sanitation needs.
• On-site parking at each campsite with additional day-use parking nearby.
• Accessible facilities, including specifically designed pathways and restrooms for those with disabilities.
• Pet-friendly policies that welcome dogs on leashes throughout the camping loops.
• Ice and firewood often available for purchase through on-site hosts during peak season.

The features and highlights of the Twin Lakes Recreation Area extend far beyond the campsite itself. The centerpiece of the area is the 10-acre impoundment created by the CCC-era dam on Hoffman Run. While the Upper Campground is tucked into the woods, it is just a short walk or drive from the vibrant day-use area which features a sandy swimming beach and dedicated fishing piers. The region is a haven for anglers and hikers alike, offering some of the most diverse recreational opportunities in the Allegheny National Forest.

• Direct access to the Twin Lakes Trail, a 15.8-mile path that connects to the North Country National Scenic Trail.
• The Black Cherry National Recreation Interpretive Trail, featuring nearly 40 educational displays about forest ecology.
• Excellent trout fishing in Hoffman Run and the spring-fed lake (no motorized boats allowed).
• A designated swimming beach with a historic CCC-built bathhouse and pavilion.
• Kid-friendly playgrounds located within each camping loop to keep younger explorers entertained.
• Paved walking paths surrounding the lake, perfect for a gentle stroll or morning jog.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including frequent sightings of black bears, deer, and diverse bird species.
• Proximity to the Mill Creek Trail for native trout fishing and additional backpacking miles.
• Group picnic pavilions that can be reserved for family reunions and community gatherings.
• A "hidden gem" atmosphere that remains less crowded than other major state parks in the region.

To ensure a pleasant stay, visitors are encouraged to make reservations in advance through federal booking platforms, though first-come, first-served sites are occasionally available. Because the area is a "Bear Aware" zone, campers are reminded to store all food and scented items securely in vehicles to protect the local wildlife and ensure guest safety.

Contact Information:
Address: Fr 290, Kane, PA 16735, USA
Phone: (814) 389-3019 (For facility-specific information or Allegheny Site Management)

What is worth choosing about the Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground is its rare ability to provide a deep-woods experience without sacrificing essential comforts. For Pennsylvania locals, it represents a "best of both worlds" scenario: you have the ruggedness of the second-longest trail in the forest right at your doorstep, yet you are minutes away from a refreshing swim and a well-maintained bathhouse. The historical charm of the CCC stonework paired with the modern, accessible upgrades makes it a destination that respects its past while welcoming all types of modern campers. If you are looking for a place where you can catch your dinner in a trout stream, hike through miles of black cherry forest, and fall asleep under a canopy of ancient hardwoods, this Kane-area treasure is an unbeatable choice for your next Pennsylvania adventure.