Elk Country Campground, Driftwood, PA

For Pennsylvanians who cherish the outdoors and seek a genuine escape into the Commonwealth's natural majesty, the Elk Country region represents the pinnacle of wilderness camping. Elk Country Campground in Driftwood, PA, stands out as a highly-rated and beloved local destination, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and genuine, personal hospitality. This campground is more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it is a gateway to the Pennsylvania Wilds and the state’s magnificent wild elk herd, providing an experience that resonates deeply with local residents.

The success of Elk Country Campground is consistently highlighted by its patrons, who frequently praise the welcoming atmosphere and the dedicated attention of the owners and hosts. This level of personal connection, which one reviewer described as feeling "really comfortable" despite challenging family circumstances, transforms a simple camping trip into a treasured memory. This article is designed to give prospective Pennsylvania users a clear, engaging, and factual overview of the campground, focusing on its exceptional location, the quality of its services, and the key features that make it a favorite "happy place" for residents across the state.

Elk Country Campground is ideally situated in the town of Driftwood, Pennsylvania, placing it right in the core of the state's most popular elk habitat. The official address is 545 Castle Garden Rd, Driftwood, PA 15832, USA. This location positions the campground within Cameron County, an area known for its dense forests, mountainous terrain, and abundant wildlife.

Its accessibility is a significant benefit for Pennsylvania travelers. Driftwood is located near the intersection of several key routes that traverse the PA Wilds, including State Route 555 and routes leading through the Elk State Forest. While providing a truly remote feel, the campground remains within a reasonable driving distance of essential small-town amenities and major regional attractions.

The site’s position on a "tiny country road" adjacent to a river (likely the Bennett Branch of the Sinnemahoning Creek) is a standout feature, allowing guests to simply "walk across the tiny country road to the river" for relaxation and recreation. Crucially, the location is confirmed to be in an area where elk and other wildlife are active, with guests reporting hearing elk "bugling morning and evening hours" and seeing "2 Bull Elks in the campground during our stay." This direct proximity to Pennsylvania's premier wildlife spectacle makes it an unparalleled location for local nature enthusiasts.

Elk Country Campground provides a comprehensive set of services designed to ensure a comfortable and reliable stay for diverse types of campers, from those in large RVs to families with tents. The services focus on modern necessities coupled with a traditional camping environment.

Diverse Camping Options: The campground accommodates various setups, offering sites for both RV camping and primitive tent camping. RV sites are equipped with essential utilities.
Full Utility Hookups for RVs: RV sites are generally provided with full hookups, including electric (30-amp and 50-amp options available) and municipal water that meets state DEP regulations. A convenient dump station is also available on-site.
Clean Bathhouse Facilities: The campground offers clean and well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities for all guests. While some external reports mention possible issues with crowded peak times, the general consensus, supported by reviewer comments, points to a commitment to cleanliness and upkeep ("The campground is always clean and put together").
Wi-Fi Access: Free Wi-Fi connectivity is generally available throughout the campground, allowing guests to stay connected, which is a key service in this remote region where cellular service can often be limited.
Recreational Facilities and Areas: Amenities include a pavilion area open to all guests, picnic tables, and fire pits at each site to enhance the outdoor experience.

The true highlights of Elk Country Campground lie in the fusion of its natural setting and the unique, highly-praised customer experience provided by the management. These features create a compelling value proposition for local Pennsylvania users.

Unbeatable Elk Proximity and Viewing Opportunities: The campground’s location is arguably its greatest asset, offering guests the rare opportunity to see elk and hear the bugling of bull elks directly from their campsite. This level of wildlife immersion is a primary draw for Pennsylvania locals.
Exceptional, Personalized Host Hospitality: Customer reviews consistently highlight the owner (referred to as "Ben" by one reviewer) and hosts as "the nicest people I have ever met." This genuine, comfortable, and accommodating management style is a major differentiator, especially noted for its welcoming approach to families with children of all needs.
Direct River Access and Mountain Views: Guests appreciate the ability to "walk across the tiny country road to the river" for fishing, tubing, or simply enjoying the tranquil sound of the water. The surrounding "Mountain Views" provide a breathtaking backdrop for campfires and relaxation.
Family-Friendly Environment: The facility is noted for creating a safe and fun environment for children, with mentions of the owner's son playing with guests, fostering a true family-camp atmosphere where all feel welcome and understood.
Strategic Access to PA Wilds Attractions: The campground serves as a perfect launch point for exploring the broader Elk Country attractions, including the Elk Country Visitor Center, Winslow Hill, Bucktail Overlook, and the vast hiking and hunting opportunities in the Elk State Forest.

For local Pennsylvanians looking to plan their next trip to the heart of Elk Country, the following contact information should be used to confirm availability, reserve sites, and inquire about specific services or local area information.

Address: 545 Castle Garden Rd, Driftwood, PA 15832, USA

Phone: (724) 541-7979

Mobile Phone: +1 724-541-7979

Prospective guests are encouraged to use these direct contact methods. Given the highly personal and dedicated customer service highlighted in local reviews—with the owner often noted as the best source for local information ("if you have a question, ask Ben!")—calling ahead will provide the most current details regarding pricing, site types, and any seasonal activities related to the elk herd.

Elk Country Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Pennsylvania locals who seek an immersive, authentic, and reliably hospitable outdoor experience. For residents, it’s not just about camping; it’s about accessing the unique, irreplaceable wildlife heritage of their home state. The combination of direct elk viewing opportunities and the genuine, family-focused hospitality of the hosts creates a 'go to camping spot' and "happy place" that keeps local families returning "multiple times a year."

Its location in Driftwood ensures that the best of the PA Wilds—from the bugling elk to the peaceful mountain vistas and prime river access—is literally steps away. This campground offers the perfect blend of a clean, well-maintained basecamp with the raw, spectacular beauty of the Northcentral Pennsylvania mountains, making it a highly recommended and valued local asset for any Pennsylvanian seeking to reconnect with nature and wildlife.