Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground, Kane, PA

Introduction / Overview

Nestled deep within the vast and beautiful expanse of the Allegheny National Forest (ANF), the Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground offers Pennsylvanians a classic, authentic, and memorable experience in the heart of the PA Wilds. This federally managed campground provides a stunning natural backdrop of lush hardwoods and evergreens, centered around a small, spring-fed impoundment popular for fishing and swimming.

Twin Lakes is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a gateway to the history and recreation of Elk County. It was once the site of a chemical factory and was later developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, imbuing the area with a rich sense of regional heritage. The community atmosphere, combined with the professionalism of the staff managing the site, is frequently highlighted by visitors who speak of the truly positive environment. Whether you are seeking solitude among the trees or quality time with family by the water, the Upper Campground provides a rustic yet welcoming base for enjoying the best of Northwestern Pennsylvania’s natural treasures. It is a beloved local secret, ensuring that even during busier seasons, the experience remains grounded in a respectful appreciation for nature.

Location and Accessibility

The Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground is located in a secluded part of the Allegheny National Forest, approximately eight miles southeast of the town of Kane, Pennsylvania. The official address and locator is Fr 290, Kane, PA 16735, USA. This location positions it conveniently for residents of Western and Central Pennsylvania seeking a deep-woods retreat within a manageable drive.

To reach the area, visitors typically travel along State Route 321 before turning onto the designated Forest Road (FR) 191. A key point for locals to note is the presence of a railroad underpass on the entrance road which has a height restriction of less than 10 feet. For larger RVs or taller vehicles, it is highly recommended to use the alternative route via Clarion Road and Dahoga Road to bypass the low-clearance obstacle, ensuring a smooth and stress-free arrival. This crucial local knowledge helps recreational vehicle owners plan their trip effectively. The campground’s setting is inherently remote, ensuring quiet nights and star-filled skies, yet it remains relatively accessible to major regional towns like Wilcox and Marienville.

Services Offered

As a well-established facility within the Allegheny National Forest, the Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground is maintained to provide essential comforts and services necessary for a traditional camping experience. The services focus on infrastructure to support both tent and smaller recreational vehicle users:

Variety of Campsites: The Upper Campground loop is generally favored for tent camping due to its more shaded, wooded sites, though it accommodates smaller RVs as well. Sites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and a tent pad.
Utility Availability: While the Upper Campground loops are typically designated as standard non-electric sites, the Recreation Area as a whole includes some sites with electrical hookups in the lower loop, providing options for different camping needs.
Water and Sanitary Facilities: The area provides access to vault toilets and drinking water points. A trailer dump station is also available within the Twin Lakes Recreation Area for the convenience of RV and trailer campers.
Firewood and Ice: Ice and firewood bundles are available for purchase on-site, which is essential for locals adhering to the “Don’t Move Firewood” regulations to protect the ANF from invasive pests.
Interpretive Services: The presence of the Black Cherry National Recreation Interpretive Trail and other historical markers suggests that educational and interpretive services are part of the offering, deepening the visitor’s connection to the forest.

Features / Highlights

The Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground distinguishes itself through a strong combination of historical significance, recreational opportunities, and a celebrated community atmosphere:

Prime Water Recreation: The small, spring-fed lake is a major attraction, offering a designated swimming beach with a bathhouse and universally accessible fishing piers, making water fun accessible for everyone.
Trout Fishing Excellence: The impoundment is regularly stocked with trout, and nearby Mill Creek offers prime native trout fishing, making it a favorite destination for Pennsylvania anglers.
Extensive Trail System: The campground serves as a trailhead for major ANF routes, including the 1.6-mile Black Cherry National Recreation Interpretive Trail and the expansive 15-mile Twin Lakes Trail, connecting hikers to the broader forest and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Strong Community and Staff: Customer feedback consistently praises the "staff and atmosphere," suggesting a high level of professionalism, warmth, and attention to creating a welcoming environment that encourages return visits.
Historical Interest: The site’s development by the CCC and its past as a chemical factory site offer a unique historical layer, providing a compelling narrative for visitors interested in Pennsylvania’s industrial and conservation history.

Contact Information

Twin Lakes Recreation Area is managed by the USDA Forest Service within the Allegheny National Forest. Reservations and general inquiries can be directed to the overseeing district office or the Friends group.

Address: Fr 290, Kane, PA 16735, USA

Phone Number for Campground Inquiries: (814) 368-4158 (Allegheny National Forest Marienville Ranger District)

Note: While the address provided is specific, the facility is part of the larger Twin Lakes Recreation Area and inquiries are often handled centrally by the ANF staff or the non-profit Friends of Twin Lakes ANF organization, whose phone number is often listed as (814) 389-3019 for specific facility information. Reservations are typically made through the national online reservation system.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Twin Lakes Recreation Area Upper Campground is perfectly suited for local Pennsylvanians, particularly those in the northern and western parts of the state. It offers a definitive, genuine slice of the cherished PA Wilds experience. For locals, it represents accessible, high-quality recreation within a federally protected forest, meaning the standards of maintenance and the preservation of the natural environment are consistently high.

The combination of a trout-stocked lake, universally accessible fishing piers, and an extensive network of hiking and interpretive trails—like the famed Black Cherry National Recreation Interpretive Trail—aligns perfectly with the state's outdoor heritage. As one reviewer noted, it’s a place people love and plan to revisit soon, a testament to its memorable atmosphere and the dedicated, professional staff. By offering both rustic tent sites and options for smaller RVs, Twin Lakes provides a flexible, affordable, and consistently beautiful destination that allows local families and solo adventurers to connect with the timeless beauty of the Allegheny National Forest, securing its place as a valued community resource.