Clarion Wild and Scenic River
The Clarion River is a designated Wild and Scenic River for 51.7 miles, from the border of the ANF/State Game Lands Number 44 boundary to an unnamed tributary at the backwaters of Piney Dam.
The steeply forested hillsides of almost continuous mature deciduous and coniferous vegetation contribute to a feeling of remoteness in many places along the river.
Paddlers on the river will find that the water changes from smooth to riffling as the river flows over and around large boulders. In the section of river between Arroyo Bridge and Irwin Run paddlers will find several of the riffles.
The Clarion is a tributary to the Allegheny Wild and Scenic River, joining it in Clarion County, just south of the town of Emlenton. In the early 1800's the Clarion was used to transport timber to the Allegheny River.
General Information
Camping
For detailed information on the camping available please visit our Clarion River Campsites page.
PA State Fish And Boat canoe permit required.
As a visitor to the National Forest, you are asked to follow certain rules designed to protect the Forest, natural resources and to provide for public safety of visitors. These rules are available to you online or at any office of the Allegheny National Forest. Please take time to read and understand them. General Topic orders apply across the Forest.
Boating
When boating with your dog, follow all Pennsylvania State boating laws.
- Use care when getting your dog in and out of the boat to ensure their safety.
- Consider both you and your dog wearing a life jacket.
- Provide shade for your pet.
- Remember to bring their food and water as it may be unsafe for them to drink lake water.
Camping
- Keep dogs on a six-foot, or shorter, leash when they are not inside a tent.
- Store dog food in bear-resistant containers and feed your pet away from the campsite.
- Pick up and bag your dog’s waste. Place it in a provided trash receptacle or pack it out.
- Do not leave your dog unattended at any time.
- Keep your dog in your tent at night.
- Ensure that there is ample water available for your pet.
Trail Use
Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, as long as they are kept on a leash. Unleashed dogs can pose a danger to your pet, the natural resources of the area, and other forest visitors.
Wildlife
- Do not allow them to interact with wildlife
- Cook Forest Canoe Rental
- Lazy River Canoe Rental
- Country Squirrel Outfitters
Address: 131 Smokey Lane Marienville, PA 16239
Phone: 814-927-6628
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.anf@usda.gov
Getting There
Directions
From Ridgway
- Travel Travel on South St. until South St. becomes PA-949 S/State St.
- Continue to follow PA-949 for 5.6 miles to the site
Parking
Campsites
Each campsite has a parking spot.
Irwin Run
Parking for 12 vehicles
Facility and Amenity Information
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Boating - Non-Motorized Info
This river is not suitable for large craft. There are multiple shallows that larger craft won't be able to pass over.
To find out water depth and temperature visit the USGS water data website.
Fishing - River/Stream Info
For information on fishing regulations and season visit the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission website.
Day Hikes Info
Little Drummer Historical Pathway
The Little Drummer Pathway has two loops totaling 3.1 miles. The trail is located near Buehler Corner.
Laurel Mills Cross-Country Ski and Hiking Trail
The 10.7-mile Laurel Mill trail system has several interconnecting loops for skiers and hikers. The trailhead is located west of Ridgeway. The Sparrow Nest loop passes near the Clarion River near Gillis Flats.
Clarion/Little Toby Cross-Country Ski and Hiking Trail
The Clarion/Little Toby trail is an 18-mile rail-to-trail that meanders along the Clarion River and Little Toby Creek. The trail is surfaced with crushed limestone and is nearly flat. Trailheads are located in Ridgeway and Brockway. This trail is not managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing Info
Little Drummer Historical Pathway
The Little Drummer Pathway has two loops totaling 3.1 miles. The trail is located near Buehler Corner.
Laurel Mills Cross-Country Ski and Hiking Trail
The 10.7-mile Laurel Mill trail system has several interconnecting loops for skiers and hikers. The trailhead is located west of Ridgeway. The Sparrow Nest loop passes near the Clarion River near Gillis Flats.
Clarion/Little Toby Cross-Country Ski and Hiking Trail
The Clarion/Little Toby trail is an 18-mile rail-to-trail that meanders along the Clarion River and Little Toby Creek. The trail is surfaced with crushed limestone and is nearly flat. Trailheads are located in Ridgeway and Brockway. This trail is not managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Recreation Groups
The Clarion River is a designated Wild and Scenic River for 51.7 miles, from the border of the ANF/State Game Lands Number 44 boundary to an unnamed tributary at the backwa