The Big Elk Lick Campground

- Elk Lick Ln, Benezette, PA 15821

Introduction / Overview

For Pennsylvanians seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience, especially those who prefer to explore the wilderness with their horses, The Big Elk Lick Campground in Benezette is a premier and highly recommended destination. Situated in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Elk Country, this private, family-run campground is renowned for its exceptional hospitality, pristine grounds, and unique equestrian focus. It serves as the ideal basecamp for accessing the spectacular Elk State Forest and the majestic Thunder Mountain Equestrian Trail system.

Guests consistently praise the cleanliness and well-maintained nature of the entire property, from the campsites to the bathhouse. Beyond the physical amenities, the true highlight is the personal touch from the owners, often referred to as "lovely and nice as could be." This warm, friendly welcome immediately sets a comfortable and secure tone for all visitors, whether you’re passing through on an adventure like the PA Wilds BDRX or settling in for an extended stay with your equine companions. The atmosphere is quiet, neat, and conducive to a truly relaxing getaway, distinguishing it as a cherished spot for local trail riders and wildlife enthusiasts alike in the Elk County region. It is more than just a place to park an RV or set up a tent; it is a community-focused hub for wilderness exploration.

Location and Accessibility

The Big Elk Lick Campground is strategically located at Elk Lick Ln, Benezette, PA 15821, USA, placing it directly in the epicenter of the state's most famous natural wonder: the Pennsylvania Elk Herd. Benezette is widely known as the "Elk Capital of Pennsylvania," making this campground’s location unparalleled for wildlife viewing opportunities. Despite being next to a road, the campground maintains a surprisingly quiet environment, allowing for a peaceful stay.

Accessibility is a key feature for this specialized campground. It offers immediate access to the Thunder Mountain Equestrian Trail, which provides miles of riding through the Elk State Forest. For non-equestrian guests, the location is a short drive from the Elk Country Visitor Center on Winslow Hill, the premier destination for viewing the massive, free-roaming elk herd. Local stores for groceries and other amenities are within easy reach, and the area is a popular stop for various outdoor recreational travelers, including motorcyclists exploring the Pennsylvania Wilds. The campground is also situated near numerous dirt roads and trails, making it easy to pop out for a quick hike, ride, or scenic drive to explore the deep river valleys, steep sidehills, and beautiful vistas that characterize the Elk State Forest District.

Services Offered (use a list)

The Big Elk Lick Campground provides a range of essential and specialized services, focusing on comfort, cleanliness, and the unique needs of equestrian campers.

• RV and Rig Sites: Sites are available for campers staying in their RVs and rigs, providing a comfortable overnight option for motorized travelers.
• Cabin Rentals: Cozy cabins are available on the property, offering an alternative lodging option for those who prefer not to tent or use an RV.
• Equestrian Facilities: The camp is primarily an equestrian campground, offering secure stalls for horses. Picket lines are also available as an alternative for horse setup.
• Horse Care Amenities: On-site facilities are available for rinsing and washing horses, along with water tanks to ensure proper hydration for your equine partners.
• Clean Bathhouse: A well-maintained bathhouse is available to all guests, featuring hot showers and clean restroom facilities.
• Communal Amenities: Guests have access to a kitchenette area and a living area, enhancing the convenience and social aspects of the stay.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi access is available for guests who need to stay connected or check routes and weather during their wilderness adventure.
• Welcoming to All Campers: The site accommodates all types of travelers, including tent campers, RV users, and those on outdoor road trips (like the BDRX), ensuring everyone feels welcome.

Features / Highlights (use a list)

The most noteworthy highlights of The Big Elk Lick Campground center on its unique location and the exceptional quality of its guest experience.

• Prime Elk Viewing Proximity: The campground is located in the heart of the Benezette elk herd's range, providing an extraordinary opportunity to encounter these majestic animals during your stay or while riding nearby trails.
• Exceptional Owner Hospitality: The proprietors, often named as Candy and Rick, are consistently praised for being "lovely and nice," creating a friendly, family-like atmosphere that makes every guest feel at home.
• Direct Trail Access: Guests, especially equestrians, benefit from easy and direct access to the Thunder Mountain Equestrian Trail, providing hundreds of miles of riding through the Elk State Forest wilderness.
• Impeccably Maintained Grounds: Reviewers repeatedly note the cleanliness of the grounds, campsites, and facilities, underscoring the owners' commitment to quality.
• Facilities for Horses: The ability to bring your own horse and utilize on-site stalls and care amenities is a major draw for Pennsylvania's dedicated trail riding community.
• Suitable for Motorcycle and Adventure Riders: The location serves as a welcoming stop for those traveling the PA Wilds BDRX (Backcountry Discovery Route Extended), offering a clean, quiet, and friendly spot for an overnight break.

Contact Information

To secure your reservation, particularly during the busy elk rut season (late summer/fall) when sites can book up almost a year in advance, please use the contact information provided below.

Address: Elk Lick Ln, Benezette, PA 15821, USA

Phone: (814) 787-4656

Mobile Phone: +1 814-787-4656

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Pennsylvania, The Big Elk Lick Campground is not just a place to camp; it is a highly specialized and deeply rewarding regional attraction. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique position as the premier equestrian gateway to the PA Wilds and the heart of Elk Country. Many Pennsylvania families and hobbyists have a passion for horseback riding and wildlife, and this campground caters directly to those interests with facilities—such as horse stalls and immediate trail access—that are difficult to find elsewhere.

Furthermore, for any local seeking the quintessential Pennsylvania experience, the opportunity to be so close to the majestic elk herd is unmatched. The Benezette area is the epicenter for elk viewing, and the campground provides a clean, quiet, and welcoming home base just minutes from the Elk Country Visitor Center and numerous viewing points. The consistent praise for the owner's amazing hospitality, with comments mentioning they make guests feel like "family," assures a comfortable and safe environment. For a Pennsylvania resident planning an unforgettable wilderness adventure—whether to ride their horse for a week, see a bull elk bugle during the rut, or simply enjoy a clean, friendly stay while passing through the beautiful state forests—The Big Elk Lick Campground stands out as an essential, high-value local destination.

The Big Elk Lick Campground

Elk Lick Ln, Benezette, PA 15821, USA