Handsome Lake Boat Access Campground

About

Handsome Lake Boat Access Campground is a remote, rustic camping destination on the eastern shore of Allegheny Reservoir within the Allegheny National Recreation Area. The campground can only be reached by boat across the reservoir or by hiking in via the North Country National Scenic Trail with connections to the Tracy Ridge Trail System. The closest boat launch is Roper Hollow, located directly across the water on the west bank. The campground features 20 single-family campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Vault toilets are available, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. Water can be filtered or treated from the reservoir if needed. The shoreline provides swimming access, and the surrounding area offers excellent hiking opportunities on the Tracy Ridge and North Country trails. Handsome Lake operates on a first-come, first-served basis only with no advance reservations. Campers pay on-site using a fee envelope and pay tube or via QR code through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Directions

Access by boat: Launch from Roper Hollow boat ramp directly across the reservoir on the west bank, or from Kinzua Wolf Run Marina approximately 5 miles south near State Route 59. Access by trail: Hike 5.2 miles via the Tracy Ridge Trail System (Johnnycake section) connecting to the North Country National Scenic Trail heading south.