Cook Forest State Park

About

Cook Forest State Park's Ridge Campground sits within 8,500 acres of northwestern Pennsylvania wilderness, including one of the finest remaining stands of old-growth white pine and hemlock in the eastern United States. The campground offers 210 sites spread through the forest, with options ranging from rustic tent camping to full-hookup RV sites featuring 50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections. Every site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Facilities include modern restrooms with showers (though shower houses may close during freezing temperatures), a sanitary dump station, and coin-operated laundry. Pets are welcome at designated sites for an additional fee. The park also offers three primitive canoe/kayak-in sites at Thompson Eddy for river travelers, limited to one-night stays. The surrounding park features over 29 miles of hiking trails through towering old-growth forest, a scenic 13-mile stretch of the Clarion River for paddling and fishing, and the Log Cabin Environmental Learning Center. Cell service is unreliable throughout the park, so download maps before arrival.

Directions

From the east, take Exit 78 off I-80, then PA 36 north to Cooksburg. From the west, take Exit 60 off I-80, then PA 66 north to Leeper, then PA 36 south for 7 miles.