1889 RV Park 0
1889 RV Park 1
1889 RV Park 2
1889 RV Park 3
1889 RV Park 4
1889 RV Park 5
1889 RV Park 6
1889 RV Park 7
1889 RV Park 8
1889 RV Park 9

1889 RV Park Introduce

Hey, fellow Pennsylvanians and RV enthusiasts! Are you planning a road trip through the beautiful landscapes of our Commonwealth and looking for a convenient, well-equipped, and friendly place to set up camp? Look no further than 1889 RV Park in South Fork, PA. This hidden gem offers a simple yet highly functional experience, perfectly suited for those with RVs of all sizes seeking a comfortable stopover or a base for exploring the rich history and natural beauty of the Johnstown area. It’s a small, intimate park that prides itself on providing essential amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among travelers who value convenience and a good value.

What sets 1889 RV Park apart is its no-nonsense approach to RV camping, focusing on what truly matters: full hookups, easy access, and proximity to significant attractions. While it might not boast extensive resort-style features, it more than compensates with its practicality and a friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to share local insights. Many visitors appreciate the straightforward setup, allowing them to quickly get settled and begin their adventures. Whether you're passing through or dedicating time to delve into the compelling history of the Johnstown Flood, this park provides an ideal launchpad, ensuring your stay in South Fork is both comfortable and memorable. It's a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more, especially when convenience and location are top priorities.

Location and Accessibility

1889 RV Park is strategically located at 180 Lake Rd, South Fork, PA 15956, USA. This address places it in Cambria County, a region of Pennsylvania that is rich in history, particularly linked to the iconic Johnstown Flood. The park's name itself, "1889 RV Park," is a direct nod to this pivotal historical event, underscoring its close proximity to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial.

For Pennsylvanians traveling from different parts of the state, the park offers excellent accessibility. It's just a short drive from major routes that connect to Pittsburgh (approximately 1.5 hours away), Harrisburg (about 3 hours away), and Philadelphia (around 4-5 hours away). The location in South Fork provides an "easy in and easy out" experience for RVs of all sizes, making it particularly appealing for travelers who prioritize straightforward navigation and setup.

One of the most significant aspects of its location is its extremely close proximity to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial, which includes the visitors center and exhibits. This allows campers to easily immerse themselves in a crucial piece of American history. Additionally, the park is part of a larger recreational area known as 1889 Park, offering extended amenities like pavilions and playgrounds just across the street. While cellular service (AT&T and Verizon) might be a bit weak in the immediate area, the park’s strong Wi-Fi helps guests stay connected. The only notable point of consideration, as mentioned by guests, is the proximity of a train track, which can occasionally have parked trains. Despite this, the convenience and historical significance of the location make 1889 RV Park a highly desirable stop for many Pennsylvanians exploring the region.

Services Offered
  • Full Hookup RV Sites: Provides comprehensive hookups for electric, water, and sewer at each site, accommodating all sizes of RV units.
  • Picnic Tables: Each RV site is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and relaxation.
  • Strong Wi-Fi: Despite potentially weak cellular service, the park offers robust Wi-Fi connectivity for guests.
  • Access to 1889 Park Amenities: Directly adjacent to a larger public park (1889 Park) which includes pavilions and playgrounds, enhancing recreational opportunities.
  • Easy In and Out Access: Designed for convenient maneuverability of RVs, regardless of size.
  • Dumpster Access: A designated dumpster is available across the street for trash disposal.
  • Restroom Facilities: Toilet facilities are available, though they are located approximately 110 yards away from the RV area. (Note: A review specifically mentions "No shower" at the RV sites, implying toilets only or that showers are not part of the standard offering).
  • On-Site Management/Host: A welcoming and knowledgeable host (e.g., "Jeff" mentioned in a review) is available to assist guests and provide local insights.
Features / Highlights
  • Unbeatable Value: At around $30.00 a night for full hookups, it offers excellent value, making it an affordable and attractive option for RV travelers.
  • Prime Location for History Buffs: Directly adjacent to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial, offering unparalleled access to a significant historical site. This is a major draw for those interested in American history.
  • Full Hookup Convenience: All sites provide essential electric, water, and sewer hookups, simplifying the RV camping experience.
  • Strong Wi-Fi: A crucial amenity for many travelers, the reliable Wi-Fi allows guests to stay connected, work remotely, or plan their next adventure.
  • Family-Friendly Adjacent Park: The proximity to the larger 1889 Park with its pavilions and playgrounds offers additional recreational opportunities, especially for families with children.
  • Accommodates All RV Sizes: Designed to handle a wide range of RV units, from smaller pop-ups to large motorhomes, ensuring accessibility for diverse travelers.
  • Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: Guests consistently praise the helpfulness and local knowledge of the park staff, who can offer valuable tips and historical context.
  • Easy Access: The "easy in and easy out" layout of the park is a significant advantage for RV drivers, minimizing stress during arrival and departure.
  • Rustic Charm: While primarily a gravel parking area, its integration with the 1889 Park and proximity to historical sites gives it a unique, practical charm for those seeking a straightforward and historically connected stay.
Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to get the most up-to-date information on availability and rates at 1889 RV Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 180 Lake Rd, South Fork, PA 15956, USA

Phone: (814) 495-7281

Mobile Phone: +1 814-495-7281

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially during peak travel seasons, to confirm your stay and gather any specific instructions or details directly from the park management. They can also provide insights into local attractions and any temporary conditions that might affect your visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Pennsylvanians, 1889 RV Park in South Fork offers an incredibly suitable and practical solution for RV travel within the state, especially for those interested in exploring our rich history. Its most compelling feature for locals is its direct proximity to the Johnstown Flood National Memorial – a site of immense historical significance that every Pennsylvanian should experience. Being able to park your RV just moments away from such a profound landmark provides an unparalleled level of convenience for learning and reflection.

Beyond the historical draw, the park's focus on essential RV amenities – full hookups, good Wi-Fi, and easy access – caters directly to the practical needs of RV owners. This means less time fussing with setup and more time enjoying your trip, whether it's exploring the memorial, venturing into nearby outdoor recreational areas, or simply relaxing. The affordability, coupled with the friendly and informative staff, makes it a welcoming and budget-conscious choice for a weekend getaway or a longer historical tour. While the occasional train might be a unique aspect, the overall convenience, value, and prime location for historical exploration make 1889 RV Park a standout option for Pennsylvanians looking for a straightforward, enriching, and comfortable RV experience in their own backyard.

Location

PennsylvaniaCambria CountySouth ForkLake Road

Customer Reviews

5.0
8 reviews
M
Melissa G.
Sep 08, 2023

Great small park that can accommodate all size units and the 1889 Park right there with pavilions and playgrounds. We had full hookup for $30.00 a night. Easy in and easy out park, Johnstown Flood NP visitors center and exhibits are really close. Jeff was awesome and gave us some history and some points we shouldn’t miss. Our cell service was a little weak (AT&T and Verizon) but the park WiFi was pretty strong. Dumpster is across the street. The only real down side was the train that parks right behind the campground. We would definitely stay here again.

M
Mad Dog
May 12, 2025

Gravel parking area. Limited shade. RV area is part of a much larger park that has picnic areas and playgrounds. Toilet facilities about 110 yards away. No shower. Sewer, water, and electrical hookup at each site. Table at each site.

M
Mary StJohn
Sep 26, 2023

We loved this little park. Only 10 sites but Jeff made us feel real welcome. Sites have a picnic table and full hook ups. No other amenities though. Simple park to stay at. Situated in an adorable little town beautiful scenery. The leaves are just starting to turn. We’d come back in a heartbeat.

M
Michael McNulty
Oct 13, 2023

Been coming to this park for more than 20 years. Only 9 spots. Reasonable prices. There is a train track that runs within a 100 yards or so. Not a main line but there will be about 2-3 coal trains a week. Most people that use this campground have ties to the local area. Some come for the summer or months at a time. If you’re coming in through Sidman or St Michael on 869 with a tow vehicle I would recommend you disconnect your toad either at the high school or at the Catholic Church parking lot. The turn off 869 is an abrupt incline to a small bridge. You will bottom out your hitch and toad.

P
Paige Wright
Oct 23, 2023

Affordable park with full hook up. Small but perfect for our occasional weekend trip to see in laws!