Shawnee State Park Campground

For Pennsylvanians eager to embrace the beauty of the outdoors, Shawnee State Park Campground in Schellsburg, PA, stands as a quintessential destination. Nestled within the scenic Ridge and Valley Province, this expansive state park offers a diverse range of camping options and recreational activities designed to cater to every type of outdoor enthusiast. From the tranquil shores of its 451-acre lake to its extensive network of hiking and biking trails, Shawnee State Park Campground provides a vibrant and welcoming environment for families, adventurers, and those simply seeking a peaceful retreat.

As a focal point of outdoor recreation in Bedford County, Shawnee State Park has a long-standing reputation for its well-maintained facilities and abundant opportunities for fun and relaxation. Whether you're planning a classic tent camping trip, a comfortable RV excursion, or a cozy stay in a camping cottage, this park invites you to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature. Discover why Shawnee State Park Campground is a cherished gem among Pennsylvania locals and an ideal spot for your next outdoor adventure.

Shawnee State Park Campground is conveniently located at 132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA. This places it approximately ten miles west of the historic town of Bedford, within the picturesque landscape of Bedford County, Pennsylvania. Its strategic position offers both a sense of immersion in nature and easy accessibility from various parts of the state.

The park is easily reached via major transportation routes. U.S. Route 30 (the historic Lincoln Highway) and Pennsylvania Route 96 both pass directly through Shawnee State Park, making the drive straightforward and scenic. For Pennsylvanians traveling from larger metropolitan areas like Pittsburgh or Harrisburg, the park is a manageable distance via the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) and connecting routes. While the park's location offers a refreshing escape, it’s not so remote that you feel completely cut off. Nearby Schellsburg and Bedford provide convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and additional services, should you need them during your stay. Cell service can be unpredictable in and around many Pennsylvania State Parks, so downloading maps or saving essential information before your visit is a good idea. Access within the park to the campground is well-marked, with designated parking areas and easy navigation to your chosen site.

• Diverse Campsites: Shawnee State Park Campground boasts a large camping area with approximately 200 sites. These accommodate various camping styles, including:

  • Electric Sites: Many sites offer 30-amp or 50-amp electric hookups for RVs and trailers.
  • Non-Electric Sites: Perfect for tent campers or those who prefer a more traditional experience.
  • Full-Hookup Sites: Some sites provide water, sewer, and electric hookups for maximum convenience.
  • Pull-Thru Sites: Available for easier parking and maneuvering of larger RVs.
  • Great Gathering Sites: Two-unit full-hookup sites designed for larger groups or families, accommodating up to 15 people with tents and two RV units.
  • Each site generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor cooking and campfires.

• Camping Cottages: For those seeking a step up from traditional camping, Shawnee offers camping cottages that sleep five people. These rustic cabins typically include single bunk beds and double/single bunk beds, a dining table and chairs, a porch, electric heat, lights, and outlets. Guests should bring their own linens and towels.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers: The campground features centrally located washhouses with flush toilets and warm showers, which are frequently praised for being clean and well-maintained. ADA accessible restrooms are also available.

• Sanitary Dump Station: An on-site sanitary dump station is available for RV campers.

• Camp Store: A camp store operates during the peak season (Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day), selling firewood, charcoal, ice, and other essential camping supplies.

• Firewood Sales: Firewood is often available for purchase at the camp store or park office.

• Amphitheater: The campground includes an amphitheater, likely used for ranger-led programs and evening entertainment, especially during the summer months.

• ADA Accessible Facilities: The park provides ADA accessible campsites and lodging, ensuring that facilities and activities are accessible for people with disabilities.

• Shawnee Lake (451 acres): The sprawling Shawnee Lake is the park's centerpiece, offering a wide array of water-based activities.

  • Boating: Non-motorized boats and boats with electric motors are permitted. Boat launches are available, and canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats can be rented during the warmer seasons.
  • Swimming: A designated swimming beach is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, providing a safe and refreshing spot to cool off. Note: pets are not allowed on swimming beaches.
  • Fishing: The lake is well-stocked with various fish species, including largemouth bass, trout, walleye, catfish, panfish, and northern pike, making it a popular spot for anglers.

• Extensive Trail System: Shawnee State Park boasts over 16 miles of diverse hiking trails and 7.5 miles of biking trails. These trails cater to various skill levels, from leisurely walks along the Lake Shore Trail to more challenging routes that traverse the scenic Ridge and Valley Province. Many trails are also suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

• Outdoor Movie Theater and Mini-Golf: Campers frequently highlight these family-friendly amenities as fun additions. The park often features an outdoor movie theater and a mini-golf course, providing entertainment for all ages.

• Play Area: A designated play area or playground is available, ensuring younger campers have a safe and engaging space to play.

• Disc Golf Course: The park features a 9-hole disc golf course (General Forbes's Challenge) in the Clearfields Day Use Area, offering a fun activity for disc golf enthusiasts.

• Environmental Education Programs: A park environmental educator conducts a summer schedule of nature walks and evening programs focusing on the natural and historical resources of the park, offering educational and engaging experiences for visitors.

• Winter Activities: Beyond summer, Shawnee offers excellent winter recreation, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing on the lake (ice thickness not monitored).

• Pet-Friendly Designated Areas: A maximum of two pets are permitted on all sites in loops B and G, and at designated campsites in Loop A, for a fee. Pets must be leashed and are prohibited in swimming areas and buildings not participating in the pet program.

Address: 132 State Park Rd, Schellsburg, PA 15559, USA

Park Office Phone: (814) 733-4218

Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center (Toll-Free): 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) (7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday)

Email: shawneesp@pa.gov

Online reservations can be made through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website.

Shawnee State Park Campground is an exceptional choice for Pennsylvania locals seeking an enriching and accessible outdoor experience. Its location in Schellsburg, within easy driving distance from many parts of the state via major highways, makes it a convenient and desirable destination for weekend getaways or longer family vacations without the hassle of extensive travel.

What truly sets Shawnee apart for Pennsylvanians is its incredible diversity of offerings. Whether your family loves splashing in the lake, casting a line for fish, exploring miles of scenic trails, or enjoying fun amenities like mini-golf and outdoor movies, Shawnee has something for everyone. This wide array of activities ensures that every visit can be unique and engaging, catering to all ages and interests. The presence of modern, clean facilities, including well-maintained restrooms and various hookup options for RVs, enhances the comfort of the camping experience, making it appealing even to those who might be newer to the outdoors.

Furthermore, as a Pennsylvania State Park, Shawnee operates with a commitment to preserving natural resources while providing public access to quality recreation. This means locals can trust in the park's stewardship and the standard of its facilities. The pet-friendly designated areas allow Pennsylvanians to bring their beloved furry companions, making it a true family affair.

Beyond the park's boundaries, its proximity to other local attractions, including the historic town of Bedford and the solemn Flight 93 National Memorial, offers opportunities to combine your outdoor adventure with cultural and historical exploration, deepening your connection to Pennsylvania's rich heritage. Shawnee State Park Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor activity, relaxation, and memory-making, solidifying its status as a top-tier destination for any Pennsylvania local.