Cook Forest State Park

Closed — Open year-round with seasonal camping from mid-April to mid-October at Ridge Campground. Some sites remain available for winter camping, though access may be limited during severe winter weather. Reservations available through Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system.

About

Cook Forest State Park encompasses 8,500 acres in northwestern Pennsylvania and is renowned for its Forest Cathedral, a National Natural Landmark featuring towering old-growth white pines and hemlocks. The park offers 210 campsites with full hookup sites (water, 50-amp electric, and sewer), electric-only sites (30 or 50 amp), and non-electric sites. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring. Ridge Campground serves as the main camping area and operates from mid-April to mid-October, with select sites available for year-round camping. Modern restrooms with showers are available throughout the main camping season, though shower houses 3 and 4 close during freezing temperatures. The campground provides a sanitary dump station and coin-operated laundry facilities. The Clarion River connects Cook Forest to Clear Creek State Park along a scenic 10-mile stretch popular for canoeing and rafting. A canoe/kayak camping area with three sites is available at Thompson Eddy for paddlers traveling the river. The park also offers 23 rustic cabins available from mid-April to mid-December, and four organized group tenting areas that accommodate 20 people each. Pets are permitted at designated campsites and select cabins for an additional fee.

Directions

From the east, take Exit 78 off I-80, then PA 36 north directly to the park in Cooksburg. From the west, take Exit 60 off I-80, then PA 66 north to Leeper. From Leeper, follow PA 36 south seven miles to the park. Ridge Campground is approximately one mile north of the park office on Route 36.

Nearby Campgrounds