Spirit of the North Campground

- 11065 PA-36, Clarington, PA 15828

For Pennsylvania residents seeking an authentic and genuinely welcoming camping experience in the heart of the state’s wildlands, the Spirit of the North Campground in Clarington is quickly becoming a regional favorite. Nestled alongside PA-36, this destination stands out not just for its convenient location but for the vibrant community and exceptional personal service provided by the owners and operators.

Though perhaps the "New Kid on the block" to some, as one satisfied customer noted, the campground has rapidly established a reputation for its warm atmosphere and dedicated management. The owners, particularly Rich, are consistently praised for being "wonderful" and "very accommodating to your every need." This commitment to a personalized, friendly experience is the true spirit of the North, fostering a feeling that one reviewer described as a "community of campers and all around good folks."

Spirit of the North Campground provides a well-maintained and pleasant environment that serves as an excellent base camp for exploring the nearby natural treasures of Cook Forest State Park and the vast Allegheny National Forest region. It is perfectly positioned for those who value clean, nice grounds and a place where every camper feels like a respected part of the family. The tone here is one of genuine hospitality, ensuring a relaxing and memorable outdoor escape for every Pennsylvania traveler.

The Spirit of the North Campground boasts a highly accessible location in the scenic north-central part of Pennsylvania, positioning it as an ideal gateway to the state's most celebrated woodlands.

The official address is 11065 PA-36, Clarington, PA 15828, USA.

Being situated directly on Pennsylvania Route 36 is a significant advantage, providing straightforward, easy access for RVs and trailers traveling from all directions. Route 36 is a primary artery connecting the region to Interstate 80, making the campground easily reachable from population centers across Pennsylvania, including the Western and Central regions. This ease of navigation minimizes driving stress and maximizes vacation time for local users.

The campground’s location is a nature lover's dream. It sits in close proximity to the renowned Cook Forest State Park, famous for its magnificent "Forest Cathedral" of old-growth white pines and hemlocks. The scenic Clarion River, a designated 'Wild and Scenic River' that flows through the area, is also just a short drive away, offering premier opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Furthermore, the entire area borders the expanse of the Allegheny National Forest, opening up thousands of acres for hiking, wildlife viewing, and true wilderness exploration. The location in Clarington is not just convenient; it is central to the best outdoor experiences the state has to offer.

Spirit of the North Campground is focused on providing the essential services and comforts that today's campers expect, all delivered with the highly-rated, personal touch of dedicated ownership. While specific detailed amenity lists may vary, public data and customer reviews suggest a strong commitment to core camping services.

• RV Camping Sites: The campground offers dedicated sites to accommodate recreational vehicles, ranging from standard pull-thru options to more secluded back-in spots.
• Utility Hookups: Essential connections are available, typically including electric (likely 30/50 amp service to accommodate various RV sizes) and water hookups. Full hookup sites, including sewer connections, are commonly offered at well-established RV parks in the region.
• Tent Camping Areas: Spaces are provided for traditional tent campers, offering a more intimate experience with nature.
• Seasonal Camping Options: Based on the strong community focus and the nature of camping in this region, seasonal RV sites are likely available, allowing local users to secure a home-away-from-home for the entire camping season (typically April to October).
• Clean Bathhouse Facilities: Customer praise for the "nice grounds" implies the presence of well-maintained and clean restroom and shower facilities for all guests.
• On-site Management: The presence of highly engaged owners and staff ensures immediate, attentive support for any guest needs or issues.
• Basic Site Amenities: Each site would typically be outfitted with a picnic table and a fire ring or dedicated fire area for outdoor cooking and evening campfires.

The true highlights of Spirit of the North Campground extend beyond just its physical features, focusing heavily on the social experience and its prime location for regional recreation.

• Exceptional Ownership and Staff: This is the campground’s most consistently praised feature. Rich and the team are noted as "wonderful" and "very accommodating," creating a rare level of customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Strong Community Vibe: The atmosphere fosters a "community of campers and all around good folks," making it an ideal choice for families and solo travelers who enjoy a friendly, social camping environment.
• Prime Cook Forest Proximity: The location on PA-36 makes it one of the most convenient private campgrounds for accessing the main attractions of Cook Forest State Park—hiking the Forest Cathedral, climbing the Fire Tower, and enjoying the scenic overlooks.
• Gateway to Allegheny National Forest: It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the vast wilderness areas, trails, and waterways of the Allegheny National Forest, a major recreational draw for Pennsylvanians.
• Well-Kept Grounds: Campers consistently describe the campground as having "very nice grounds," indicating a high standard of maintenance and cleanliness across all sites and common areas.
• Accessibility on PA-36: The direct access from a major state route simplifies arrival and departure, which is crucial for RV and trailer owners.
• Support for Extended Stays: The accommodating nature of the operators makes this a superb choice for local Pennsylvanians looking for a comfortable, reliable seasonal camping spot to enjoy the entire summer.

Prospective campers and those interested in seasonal arrangements are encouraged to contact the management team directly for the most current information on site availability and reservations.

Physical Address:

11065 PA-36

Clarington, PA 15828, USA

Primary Phone:

(814) 752-2031

Mobile Phone:

+1 814-752-2031

*Given the high praise for the owners and the growing popularity of the campground, it is strongly recommended to call well in advance, especially when planning a trip during peak summer and fall foliage weekends.

Spirit of the North Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Pennsylvania locals because it offers a rare combination of superior customer service and a prime recreational location. For Pennsylvanians who already know and love the state's forests, this campground provides the perfect, stress-free setting to enjoy them.

First, the ease of access via PA-36 makes weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, Erie, or Central PA swift and simple. You spend less time driving and more time relaxing. Second, the location acts as an unparalleled launch pad for the region's main attractions—Cook Forest and the Clarion River—eliminating long drives to reach world-class hiking, canoeing, and fishing. Most importantly, however, is the human element. The management team's dedication ensures a consistently positive, clean, and welcoming environment. Local users are looking for a reliable, friendly escape, and the Spirit of the North Campground delivers precisely that. The strong sense of community, fostered by Rich and his staff, means you’re not just renting a site; you are joining a network of "good folks" who appreciate the Pennsylvania outdoors, guaranteeing a delightful experience that will have you eager to return again and again.

Spirit of the North Campground

11065 PA-36, Clarington, PA 15828, USA