Upper Campground Kettle Creek State Park

Upper Campground at Kettle Creek State Park is a hidden gem nestled in the rugged mountains of north-central Pennsylvania. Part of the expansive 1,793-acre state park in western Clinton County, this campground offers a more rustic and elevated experience compared to its lower counterpart. Known for its breathtaking views of the Alvin R. Bush Dam and the Kettle Creek Reservoir, the Upper Campground provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Pennsylvania Wilds. The atmosphere is quiet and restorative, making it a preferred choice for travelers who value scenery and a connection to the wilderness over modern suburban-style amenities.

Operating seasonally from early April through mid-October, the Upper Campground is designed to accommodate both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. While it is classified as a rustic camping area, it strikes a balance by offering essential utilities at select sites, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing basic comforts. The park itself is a hub for outdoor recreation, but the Upper Campground specifically is favored for its location on the hillside, which often provides cooler breezes and a front-row seat to the local wildlife that frequents the valley, including deer, bald eagles, and the occasional elk.

Location and accessibility are vital considerations for visitors headed to this remote part of the state. The Upper Campground is located within Kettle Creek State Park at 97 Kettle Creek Park Lane, Renovo, PA 17764. Reaching the park involves a scenic drive through the heart of the Sproul State Forest. From Renovo, visitors typically take PA 120 West for about five miles to Westport, then turn onto Kettle Creek Road (SR 4001) for a seven-mile stretch that leads directly into the park. The roads are well-maintained but winding, characteristic of the mountainous terrain. Once inside the park, the Upper Campground is easily accessible via on-site parking at each designated site. While the terrain is hilly, the park provides wheelchair-accessible parking and restroom facilities to accommodate all guests.

The services offered at the Upper Campground are tailored to support a self-sufficient yet comfortable camping trip. Unlike the more modern Lower Campground, the Upper loop emphasizes a traditional camping feel. The services include:

• Selection of 27 campsites, including 12 sites equipped with 30-amp or 50-amp electric hookups for RVs and trailers.
• Potable water spigots conveniently scattered throughout the campground loops.
• Vault toilets located within the Upper Campground for easy access from all sites.
• Access to modern shower facilities and flush toilets located in the nearby Lower Campground.
• A sanitary dump station located within the park for RV waste management.
• Professional park ranger presence and an information center to assist with navigation and safety.
• Environmental education programs and campfire talks scheduled during the peak summer months.

The features and highlights of this destination are what truly set it apart for Pennsylvania residents. Whether you are an avid angler or a family looking for a weekend getaway, the campground serves as a gateway to numerous activities. Highlights of staying at the Upper Campground include:

• Spectacular panoramic views of the 167-acre Kettle Creek Reservoir and the surrounding mountain ridges.
• Pet-friendly sites throughout the entire Upper Campground, allowing you to bring dogs along for the adventure.
• Immediate access to various hiking trails, including a scenic 7.5-mile loop that connects to the Nature Trail and Butler Trail.
• A dedicated playground area within the campground loop, making it a great choice for families with children.
• Close proximity to the Kettle Creek Vista, a famous overlook located just a short drive or hike away.
• Excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography, with a high frequency of bald eagle sightings.
• Direct access to the reservoir for electric-motor boating, kayaking, and canoeing.
• Trout, bass, and panfish fishing in the reservoir and the nearby creek.

For those looking to plan their next trip or confirm site availability, the contact information for the park office is as follows:

Address: 97 Kettle Creek Park Lane, Renovo, PA 17764, USA

Phone: (570) 923-6004

Reservations: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)

What is worth choosing when it comes to the Upper Campground is the sense of solitude and the specific "back-to-nature" vibe that is harder to find in more developed parks. For residents of Pennsylvania who want to escape the hustle of city life, the Upper loop offers a quietude that is deeply refreshing. The fact that the sites are pet-friendly makes it an easy choice for pet owners who find their options limited in other state park campgrounds. Additionally, the elevation provides a distinct vantage point for stargazing, as the area is known for its dark skies and lack of light pollution.

The flexibility of the sites—offering both sunny and shaded options—allows campers to tailor their experience based on the season. In the heat of July, the shaded sites under the forest canopy are a welcome relief, while the sunny sites are perfect for those visiting in the crisp days of early October to witness the legendary fall foliage of Clinton County. Choosing the Upper Campground means choosing a front-row seat to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the state, all while remaining within a managed and safe environment. Whether you are launching a kayak for a morning paddle or sitting by a fire ring overlooking the valley, the Upper Campground at Kettle Creek State Park provides an authentic and memorable Pennsylvania outdoor experience.