Nestled in the serene landscapes of Elk Creek, Pennsylvania, Uncle John’s Campground offers a tranquil escape for RVers and outdoor enthusiasts. This campground, a hidden gem near the shores of Lake Erie, provides a unique camping experience with its close-knit community feel and proximity to nature’s wonders. While offering essential amenities and a friendly atmosphere, Uncle John’s Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the beauty of Pennsylvania’s Great Lakes region.
Uncle John’s Campground, known locally as Uncle Johns Elk Creek Campground, is a modestly sized campground with 30 sites, providing a more intimate camping experience compared to larger, more crowded parks. Situated at an elevation of 557 feet, the campground offers a level terrain, making it easy to navigate for all types of RVs, including larger Class A vehicles up to 40 feet, as reported by previous visitors. The last reported price paid was $53, indicating competitive pricing for the amenities offered.
Finding Uncle John’s Campground is straightforward with GPS coordinates readily available: 42.0209 latitude and -80.3677 longitude. For visual navigation, online maps provide a clear view of the campground’s location.
Discover Uncle John’s Campground easily with online maps and GPS coordinates, ensuring a smooth arrival for your RV adventure.
Campground Experience & Amenities at Uncle John’s
Uncle John’s Campground provides essential hookups, including 50 amp, 20 amp, and water, catering to RVs with partial hookup requirements. While sewer hookups are not listed as an amenity at each site, a dump station is available on-site for convenient waste disposal. This partial hookup setup is common in campgrounds that prioritize a more natural camping feel while still providing necessary utilities.
Site amenities are designed to accommodate big rigs, making it accessible for larger RVs to comfortably set up camp. The campground is also pet-friendly, welcoming furry companions to join in on the camping adventures. For facilities, restrooms are available on-site, and RV storage options are also provided, which can be beneficial for seasonal campers or those needing a temporary storage solution.
While specific details on site quality vary based on reviews, expect gravel sites with some concrete pads. It’s advisable for heavier rigs to consider using leveling pads due to reports of soft gravel in some areas.
Campendium provides comprehensive information on campgrounds like Uncle John’s, helping RVers plan their trips with confidence.
Cell Phone Coverage at Uncle John’s Campground
Staying connected is important for many travelers, and Uncle John’s Campground has reported cell phone coverage. Verizon 4G service is confirmed by multiple users, making it a viable option for those relying on Verizon for communication or internet access. However, one review mentioned essentially no Verizon signal, highlighting potential variability in coverage or location within the campground. It’s always wise to have a backup plan for communication and to check recent coverage maps for the most up-to-date information.
What Campers are Saying: Reviews of Uncle John’s Campground
Reviews for Uncle John’s Campground are mixed, presenting a nuanced picture of the camping experience. Analyzing feedback from various campers provides a balanced perspective for potential visitors.
Positive Aspects Highlighted in Reviews:
- Friendly and Accommodating Owners: Multiple reviews praise the owners for being very nice and accommodating. This personal touch can significantly enhance the camping experience, especially for first-time visitors or those needing assistance.
- Location near Lake Erie and Elk Creek: The campground’s proximity to both Lake Erie and Elk Creek is a major draw. It offers a balance of lakeside activities and creek-side tranquility, appealing to different preferences. Steelhead fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the campground’s location right on the river.
- Well-Maintained Grounds: One review mentions meticulously maintained grounds with friendly staff, suggesting that the campground management takes pride in the upkeep of the property.
- Pet-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground is noted as dog-friendly, which is a significant advantage for travelers who bring their pets along.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks from Reviews:
- Site Quality and Layout: Some reviews mention “oddly laid out concrete pads” and soft gravel. Site quality appears to be an area that could be improved for a more consistent experience.
- Bathroom and Shower Facilities: One reviewer described bathroom floors that felt unstable and a shower without a curtain, indicating potential concerns about the condition and privacy of these facilities. However, another review mentioned “nice shower rooms with bathrooms,” suggesting possible variations or improvements over time.
- Verizon Cell Service Variability: While Verizon 4G is generally confirmed, one user reported no signal, indicating that cell service might be unreliable in certain spots within the campground or at certain times.
- Long-Term Campers: The presence of long-term campers who “looked more like they were storing their trailers” might affect the aesthetic appeal and community feel for some short-term visitors.
- Age Restrictions: One negative review mentioned an undisclosed 21+ age policy, leading to disappointment and stranded travelers. It is crucial to confirm any age restrictions directly with the campground when booking, especially for younger travelers.
Ratings Summary:
Based on aggregated ratings, Uncle John’s Campground generally receives moderate scores. While specific scores are not provided in the original text, review summaries suggest average ratings for Access, Location, Cleanliness, Site Quality, and Noise. Prospective campers should read individual reviews for detailed insights into these aspects.
Nearby RV Rentals for Exploring Elk Creek and Lake Erie
For those who wish to experience the RV lifestyle without owning an RV, or for travelers flying in, nearby RV rentals offer a convenient solution. Uncle John’s Campground partners with RVshare to provide a variety of rental options in the vicinity.
RVshare partners with campgrounds like Uncle John’s to connect campers with nearby RV rental options, enhancing travel flexibility.
Popular nearby RV rentals include:
- 2022 Keystone RV Bullet 290BHS Travel Trailer: Sleeps 8, priced at $129/night. A spacious option for families or larger groups.
2022 Keystone RV Bullet 290BHS Travel Trailer for Rent
Rent a 2022 Keystone RV Bullet 290BHS travel trailer near Uncle John’s Campground for a comfortable and spacious camping experience.
- 2021 EAST TO WEST Alta 2100MBH Travel Trailer: Sleeps 5, priced at $139/night. A well-equipped option for smaller families or groups.
2021 EAST TO WEST Alta 2100MBH Travel Trailer Rental Option
Consider renting a 2021 EAST TO WEST Alta 2100MBH travel trailer for your stay at Uncle John’s Campground, offering modern amenities and comfort.
- 2021 Keystone RV Carbon 36 Toy Hauler: Sleeps 7, priced at $175/night. Ideal for adventure enthusiasts needing to haul recreational equipment.
2021 Keystone RV Carbon 36 Toy Hauler Available for Rent
For adventure-seekers, a 2021 Keystone RV Carbon 36 toy hauler rental near Uncle John’s Campground provides ample space and utility.
- 2014 Coachmen RV Catalina 323TSBH Travel Trailer: Sleeps 9, priced at $125/night. A budget-friendly option for larger groups.
2014 Coachmen RV Catalina 323TSBH Travel Trailer for Rent Near Campground
A 2014 Coachmen RV Catalina 323TSBH travel trailer rental offers a cost-effective way to camp at Uncle John’s Campground for larger families.
- 2021 Riverside RV Intrepid 279RBC Travel Trailer: Sleeps 6, priced at $139/night. Offers a balance of space and features.
2021 Riverside RV Intrepid 279RBC Travel Trailer Rental Option Nearby
Consider a 2021 Riverside RV Intrepid 279RBC travel trailer rental for your Uncle John’s Campground visit, providing comfort and essential amenities.
- 2019 Palomino Puma 29QBSS Travel Trailer: Sleeps 9, priced at $120/night. Another affordable option for larger groups.
2019 Palomino Puma 29QBSS Travel Trailer for Rent in Elk Creek Area
For budget-conscious travelers, a 2019 Palomino Puma 29QBSS travel trailer rental near Uncle John’s Campground accommodates up to 9 guests.
These RV rentals provide a range of sizes and amenities, catering to different group sizes and preferences, allowing everyone to enjoy the Uncle John’s Campground and surrounding Elk Creek area.
Conclusion: Is Uncle John’s Campground Right for Your RV Trip?
Uncle John’s Campground offers a no-frills, nature-focused camping experience in Elk Creek, Pennsylvania. Its proximity to Lake Erie and Elk Creek makes it attractive for those seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty. The campground’s friendly owners and pet-friendly policy are definite positives. However, potential visitors should be aware of mixed reviews regarding site quality and bathroom facilities, and should verify cell service and age restrictions prior to booking.
For RVers looking for a basecamp to explore the Lake Erie region and enjoy steelhead fishing, and who value a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere over resort-style amenities, Uncle John’s Campground is worth considering. Always check for the latest reviews and confirm details directly with the campground to ensure it meets your specific needs and expectations for your RV adventure.
