THE BEAUTY OF IT ALL
Allegheny Reservoir
The forest, which encompasses 513,257 acres, is within easy driving distance of several metropolitan areas in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Ontario, Canada. A wide choice of lodging, dining, and visitor services is readily available in the nearby towns of Bradford, Kane, Marshburg, and Lantz Corners. Over 600 miles of trails crisscross the ridges and valleys of the Allegheny National Forest. It provides opportunities for hunting, fishing, swimming, hiking, camping, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, boating, mountain biking, riding ATVs, boat/camping, and more.
Green Forest, Blue Water: An Adventure for Everyone
Kinzua Dam
Totally surrounded by forest, Kinzua Dam and Allegheny Reservoir are at the heart of one of the largest and most popular outdoor recreation complexes in the northeastern United States.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers invites you to visit the reservoir and discover a variety of year-round recreational opportunities that will delight outdoor enthusiasts.
The Allegheny Reservoir spans the border between Pennsylvania and New York. In Pennsylvania, the reservoir is surrounded by the Allegheny National Forest, and in New York State by Allegany State Park and the Allegany Indian Reservation of the Seneca Nation.
Boating
The Kinzua–Wolf Run Marina and six public boat launches within the Allegheny National Forest offer convenient access to the reservoirs for boating, paddling, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy two designated swim beaches and several scenic picnic areas, creating plenty of options for a relaxed day on the water with family and friends. For those looking to extend their time on the reservoir, houseboat rentals are available through the Kinzua–Wolf Run Marina, providing a unique way to explore the lake and its surrounding forested shoreline.
Camping & Lodging
The Allegheny National Forest (ANF) offers thousands of acres of outdoor fun across both developed recreation areas and rustic backcountry sites. Ten campgrounds, ranging in size and facilities, are available. The Dewdrop, Kiasutha, Red Bridge, Tracy Ridge, and Willow Bay campgrounds offer campsites suitable for trailers and motorhomes as well as tents. The remaining five campgrounds are accessible only by hiking or boating. These sites provide a rustic setting for lake shore camping and a convenient stopover while hiking the North Country National Scenic Trail or one of several loop trails which traverse the National Forest.
Fishing
The Allegheny Reservoir is one of the region’s premier fishing destinations, known for its deep, clear waters and healthy populations of game fish. Anglers come year-round for the chance to reel in trophy-sized catches, including walleye, smallmouth bass, northern pike, muskellunge, and catfish. The reservoir has earned a legendary reputation, producing both the New York and Pennsylvania state-record walleye, while the Allegheny River downstream yielded New York’s record channel catfish. With miles of accessible shoreline, numerous boat launches, and quiet coves ideal for casting, the reservoir offers a rewarding experience for both seasoned anglers and beginners.
Allegany State Park & Seneca Nation of Indians
In nearby New York State, Allegany State Park’s 65,000 acres contain two major recreation areas and many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Allegany’s recreation areas also provide hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails, picnic areas, and swim beaches. Almost the entire portion of Allegheny’s New York shoreline is bounded by the Allegany Indian Reservation of the Seneca Nation of Indians. The Seneca Indians have a long and rich history in the area. A museum featuring exhibits on the history, culture, and folklore of the Seneca is located in Salamanca.