Willow Bay

About

Willow Bay Recreation Area is located within the Allegheny National Recreation Area, about 16 miles west of Bradford, Pennsylvania. Built in the 1960s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and transferred to the Forest Service, the campground has an open character with sites ranging from grassy and unshaded to nestled under mature Hemlock trees. Four camping loops surround Willow Bay: Hemlock and Deer Grove loops overlook the water while Oak and Aspen loops back onto Willow Creek. The facility offers 101 single campsites, including 30 with electric hookups, 41 waterfront sites, and 27 tent-only sites. Eleven rustic 10x12-foot cabins with electricity and heat are available year-round. Each campsite includes a fire ring with grill and picnic table. Modern amenities include flush toilets, showers, potable water, and a dump station, though showers and water systems operate only from April through October. Recreation centers on the 12,080-acre Allegheny Reservoir, with boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing for walleye, bass, and musky. A courtesy dock at the boat launch and kayak/canoe rentals enhance water access. The North Country National Scenic Trail passes nearby and can be accessed from the campground for hiking through forested hills at 1,400 feet elevation.

Directions

From Bradford, travel west on PA-346 for 16 miles. Turn left onto Aspen Loop to enter the site. Follow signs to the Allegheny Reservoir and the campground.