Map showing campground location near Steamburg, Pennsylvania

Tracy Ridge

Within the Allegheny National Forest, Tracy Ridge operates as a rustic US Forest Service campground that draws repeat visitors seeking primitive camping experiences. The campground sits on forested terrain with access to creek and river areas, though Gary G. notes "many sites are closed and not maintained," giving it a less groomed feel compared to other forest campgrounds.

Large, well-spaced sites accommodate RVs up to 99 feet, though the campground lacks electrical hookups and relies on hand-pump wells for water access. Campers consistently mention the quality of the water supply, with one reviewer describing "really good, cold water from the well." The three active loops provide ample privacy between sites under dense forest canopy, and dead wood scattered throughout eliminates the need to bring firewood. Cell coverage remains spotty, with intermittent Verizon service reported.

The campground serves as a trailhead for approximately 15 hiking segments, including routes that connect to the Allegheny River and nearby Kinzua Dam area. Access roads can be rough, particularly after weather events, so campers should prepare accordingly. The honor-system payment structure and minimal ranger presence contribute to the remote atmosphere that draws tent campers and RV users comfortable with primitive conditions. For those seeking pet-friendly camping near Allegheny National Forest, Tracy Ridge welcomes dogs and provides extensive space for them to roam.

Description

Overview

Tracy Ridge Campground is located within the Allegheny National Recreation Area, approximately 15 miles from Bradford, Pennsylvania. Allegheny Reservoir is just minutes away. Hikers enjoy exploring the 33-mile Tracy Ridge Trail System, which inclused 10 miles of the North Country National Scenic Trail. Tracy Ridge campground is operated by Allegheny Site Management under a concession permit. Hand-pumped water is only available in Loop E.

Recreation

Hiking and backpacking possibilities abound in the Tracy Ridge Recreation Area. The trail system of interconnecting loops begins at the campground, and offers offers excellent day hikes. The main trail in the system is the Tracy Ridge trail, which circles the campground and drops down to the North Country National Scenic trail before climbing up the ridge back to the campground, making an approximate 16-mile loop. On the ridge above Tracy Run, there are two shorter loops for the less intrepid, and a connector to Johnnycake Trail, which goes from the loop around the campground down Johnnycake Run to the North Country Trail along the Reservoir. Connector trails off the North Country and Tracy Ridge trails lead to two primitive campgrounds on the Reservoir's shores: Handsome Lake and Hopewell. These two campgrounds are only accessed by foot or boat, and - with 3 other boat access campgrounds - are the only legal way to camp along the shore of the reservoir. The Bullis Hollow Trail leads east of the Tracy Ridge Recreation Area, heading for the city of Bradford and the Marilla Trail System on the Bradford Water Authority property approximately 8 miles away. Boat access to the Allegheny Reservoir is nearby at Willow Bay Recreation Area, for developed access, or Sugar Bay for primitive access.

Facilities

Over 70 spacious, shaded campsites are available, each containing a picnic table, campfire ring, and tent pad. Vault toilets are also available. Hand-pumped water is only available in loop E. Group sites are available by reserving entire camping loops.

Natural Features

The campground is situated in a mature oak stand on top of a hill, surrounded by streams and rock formations, at an elevation of 2,245 feet. The Allegheny Reservoir is approximately 5 miles from Tracy Ridge.The Allegheny National Forest covers nearly half a million acres and is populated primarily with black cherry, maple, and other hardwoods. The Kinzua Dam, built in 1965, impounds the Allegheny River to form 25-mile-long Allegheny Reservoir.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (814) 363-9090.

Charges & Cancellations

Cancellations or changes must be made through Recreation.gov

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Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

CAUTION: PRESCRIBED FIRE NOTICE The Allegheny National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations near the south end of Tracy Ridge Recreation Area between April 1 and May 15, as weather conditions allow. A temporary closure will be enforced during operations, restricting public access to theproject area, including the Tracy Ridge Trail System, a section of the North Country National Scenic Trail, and the Handsome Lake and Hopewell boat-to campgrounds. Operations are expected to last 1 to 2 days , followed by a few days of mop-up. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/r09/allegheny/fire/management/tracy-ridge-prescribed-fire-burning-questions . Thanks

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Location

Public Campground

Tracy Ridge is located in Pennsylvania

Directions

Take State Route 321 north off of State Route 59, or south off of State Route 346.

Coordinates

41.9441667 N
78.8761111 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group
Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

Trash
Phone Service
Reservable
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time

1 hr 21 min from Erie, PA
1 hr 33 min from Buffalo, NY
2 hrs 21 min from State College, PA
2 hrs 30 min from Altoona, PA

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted Tracy Ridge's large, private wooded sites and peaceful wilderness atmosphere. Basic amenities include pit toilets and hand pump water. Many appreciated the uncrowded, secluded setting ideal for primitive camping.

Gary G.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 10, 2021

Remote with multiple hiking trailheads at campground

Remote and quiet campground. About 20% occupied on a weekend in early August. We claimed one of the many FF sites that were open. Sites are all large with privacy between, generally level, partial or full shade. Lots of very tall trees. Vault toilets, pumps for potable water. Intermittent Verizon service with a mobile router and external antenna. There are about 15 hiking trail segments accessible from this campground, so great base for hiking. This campground has a rustic feeling and is not as groomed as others nearby, such as Red Bridge. Many sites are closed and not maintained. After settling into our wooded site, we noticed some large dead limbs high above our trailer, but took our chances and had no incidents.

Site35

Month of VisitAugust

Erin

Scout

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2021

Nice campground

It was a nice campground, affordable, Access to hiking trails, I was confused by the water pumps honestly. Only slight cell service for at&t

Siteloop A site 21

Month of VisitAugust

Jeff N.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 25, 2021

Really cool, remote spot

Arrived to a nearly empty campground. Only a few people on a weekday.

No firewood on site, so bring it with ya. Really good, cold water from the well!

Little bit of Verizon coverage.

Bad news - Gypsy moths are everywhere!!!!

Site114

Month of VisitJune

Joe F.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 25, 2020

My favorite primitive Camp!

This review will be based on tent camping not w an rv. I 1st came here in late 90’s w friends from school. If you like The feeling of being in the middle of nowhere and extreme fresh air this is the place for you! Lots are huge and never crowed. I think there’s 3 loops still open , 1 closed. Last time we went it was a honor system - put $ in envelope at box near entrance . Ranger might come by to check people and payment - and he/ she may not. There are no hook up electric /water ... just you and nature . Kinzua dam is about 40-45 min drive . Rim rock is a great hiking trail/park you ll pass on way to dam. Before that and much closer to Tracy ridge is boat launch or fishing area . Whether you’re going w a group to get a little crazy or you have young children that will enjoy just being in the woods and learning primitive style camping methods there’s enough space that all will enjoy. We have a camper now and will Definitely visit this place after we get a inverter/ generator .. ya spoiled now hahaha I can’t think of better camp spot for your dogs either ... as long as they listen they ll be able to stretch their legs a little too. Oh and the trail system for hiking is great too, one trail head takes to to the reservoir due East . There a also a campground out on main rd to the north just past a lil camp/country store that lets you pay couple bucks to shower there . Plenty of dead wood around to not even worry about bringing firewood and plenty of options for hanging multiple hammocks 😎 I’ve camped here maybe 15x over the yrs and still my favorite primitive get away.

Thomas M.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 20, 2018

Secluded wilderness campground

This is a wilderness area campground. The sites a beautiful, but there are little to no amenities. The only water was from a hand pump at the far end of the loop, near the pit toilets. Loved this place.

Ed R.

Scout

Reviewed Mar. 18, 2017

Serene camping

I have visited this area many times, always with a tent. The majority of time without a reservation and always have a nice selection of sites with quiet dispersed neighbors. This area also is pay as you stay when you arrive. Scenery is pleasant and hiking is a joy. My big draw is moderate seclusion.

Justin S.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 30, 2016

Good hiking in this area

This isn’t next to the Allegheny River but you can hike to it from here. Nice simple site to enjoy nature. Pros: very large sites, very densely wooded, lovely in fall, good day hikes nearby, pretty empty, pit toilets, water, open year round. Cons: no tent-only area but there were no RVs there in early autumn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Tracy Ridge Campground located and how do I get there?

Tracy Ridge Campground is located in the Allegheny National Forest in northwestern Pennsylvania. While not situated directly on the Allegheny River, the campground offers hiking access to the river. The campground is nestled in a densely wooded area that provides a true wilderness experience with a remote, secluded feel. It's accessible by car, though its remote nature means you'll want to come prepared with supplies. The area is particularly beautiful during fall when the foliage changes color. For exact directions, it's best to check with the Allegheny National Forest Service before your trip.

Are there photos available of Tracy Ridge Campground to view before visiting?

Yes, photos of Tracy Ridge Campground are available online. You can find images showcasing the campground's spacious, wooded sites, tall trees, and natural setting by visiting the official Allegheny National Forest website. Additional photos may be available on The Dyrt and other camping platforms where visitors share their experiences. These images will give you a good sense of the wilderness setting, the layout of campsites, and the surrounding forest environment before your visit.

What facilities and amenities are available at Tracy Ridge Campground?

Tracy Ridge Campground offers a true wilderness camping experience with minimal amenities. Facilities include pit toilets and potable water available from hand pumps (located at the far end of one loop). The campsites are very large, well-spaced, and situated in densely wooded areas providing good privacy. Most sites offer partial or full shade from tall trees. The campground has multiple loops, with some sites being first-come, first-served. There's no firewood available on-site, so you'll need to bring your own. Cell service is limited with only intermittent Verizon coverage and slight AT&T service reported. There's no electricity or shower facilities.

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