Secluded Overlook Solo Campsite

This stand-alone secluded campsite sits in the woods above an extremely unique stretch of French Creek (2022 PA River of the Year!) Facing northwest over the valley, it offers stunning sunset views. The Union City Dam floods the valley during wet periods making a beautiful (though temporary) lakefront campsite before slowly draining away. 100s of acres of protected land create a wildlife haven. Centrally located between 2 small towns with many local attractions.

Union City Dam:

Situated on the high-side of the Union City Dam, a dry-bed flood control dam. During snowmelt or rainy spells, the dam fills and floods the entire valley. During dry spells, French Creek appears as any other creek. At full flood, it becomes a breathtaking lake front campsite. Unfortunately, these natural events only occur a few weeks out of the year and are fairly unpredictable, but provide a truly spectacular setting (compare the high-water vs low-water views in the photos).

Wildlife:

At the end of a dead-end dirt road, adjacent to 100's of acres of federal protected land, and within sight of a number of agriculture fields, there is an abundance of wildlife. For over 20 years, an active eagle’s nest has been located 1 mile north providing amazing opportunities to see either adult or juvenile eagles flying over French Creek hunting for fish. Deer can be seen early morning and late evening in the fields, and frequently crossing the valley. All types of waterfowl flock the reservoir lake when flooded. I've personally witnessed up to 1000 geese and 100’s of wild swans at once.

Local Attractions:

The small towns of Union City and Waterford have gas stations, grocery stores, great local dining options, and more. The Union City Dam, less than 1.5 miles down the road, provides walking, biking, scenic driving, and picnic opportunities. 40-min drive to Presque Isle State Park, one of the only free state parks left in the US. 15-min drive to Port Farms a farm-themed amusement park for the kids and Poverty Knob Brewery for the adults.

DISCLAIMER: There is an active gravel pit to the North of the campsite. During weekdays from about 7 AM-5 PM, you will likely hear and possibly see some activity from the gravel pit. Security cameras may be in use at the driveway entrance.

RULES:
1) FIREWOOD: The state of Pennsylvania prohibits the movement of all types of firewood into the state from out-of-state sources, unless it has been properly heat-treated, kiln-dried, and/or USDA certified due to the risk of spreading invasive species. You are free to pick up, cut up, and burn any dead wood on the ground within eye sight of the campsite (please stay within reason of the established campsite to stay on the property). There is locker system of dry firewood for $10 a large bundle available at the campsite. You can follow instructions on the firewood sign to purchase a code to the locker when you arrive.

2) TRASH: Please pick up after yourself and take your trash with you. I do provide trash removal for $5 per 3 large garage bags. Please notify me on departure if you are leaving trash for removal.

3) GRAVEL PIT: There is an active gravel pit directly north on the road past the camp driveway. Do not drive, bike, or walk north on the road any farther than the camp driveway. There wilk be large trucks and heavy equipment running during business hours on weekdays.