Dispersed camping sites near Allison Park, Pennsylvania offer alternatives to established campgrounds during peak season. Located in western Pennsylvania at approximately 1,100 feet elevation, Allison Park experiences mild summers with temperatures averaging 70-85°F and cold winters, making April through October the primary camping season. Access trails typically close after first snowfall and reopen in mid-spring.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Breakneck Campground provides access to McConnells Mill State Park with options for anglers of all experience levels. "McConnlls mills park is 100 yards away and has approx, 30 miles of trails and part of the north country trail. There is rock climbing, rappelling, white water kayaking and fishing," notes camper Daniel L.
Hiking trails: Forested pathways wind through many campgrounds near Allison Park. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, "lots of trails to choose from. Some were pretty easy some were a little hilly. My favorite was the fern trail - lots of ferns and a very pretty stream. Hiking poles are recommended especially if it rains," advises Shannon G.
Water recreation: Swimming options abound during summer months. "There's a swimming pool and lake for fishing and boating," explains David A. about Tomlinson Run. Keystone State Park Campground offers "a large lake and designated swimming area" that attracts visitors seeking relief from summer heat.
What Campers Like
Secluded camping spots: Privacy-seeking campers find quieter alternatives to glamping in Allison Park, Pennsylvania. "We chose one of two primitive sites next to a small creek. Apart from the campers above us on top of the hill, we were a few hundred feet from the other primitive sites. Despite being just a minutes walk from our truck, we felt incredibly secluded," shares Ben at Breakneck Campground.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Fox Den Acres Campground specializes in activities for all ages. "They provide activities almost every evening, making sure every age range is catered to throughout the week. There's a predictably overpriced store where you can buy some essentials, and a few luxuries," explains Heather H.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance stands out in visitor reviews. At Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest, campers appreciate "probably the cleanest shower house I have ever seen at a campground," according to John M. Another visitor noted Kozy Rest offers "great campground with a great staff."
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds near Allison Park fill quickly during summer weekends. Weekday availability remains better even during peak season, with many requiring booking 3-6 months in advance for weekends.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience varying noise levels. At Breakneck Campground, a visitor warns: "Despite being just a minutes walk from our truck, we felt incredibly secluded. Being so far away, noise was a nonissue. Although cool, I'm glad we didn't reserve a scenic campsite. Those sites are very close to one another, where I could see noise being an issue."
Weather preparedness: Western Pennsylvania experiences sudden thunderstorms during summer months. At Keystone State Park Campground, "we had a big night of rain and with the wind it dried up pretty quickly," notes a camper. Most sites drain well, but selecting slightly elevated spots improves conditions during wet periods.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with younger children. "This is a large campground with play grounds, well maintained pool and grounds, fishing, party pavilions, and store," notes Msmetoo48 S. at Fox Den Acres Campground.
Evening activities: Many campgrounds organize scheduled events. "Plenty of activities for the kids, awesome lasertag course," shares Fred R. about Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest.
Swimming options: Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping offers "a pool, arcade, fishing, and playground. Decent size dog park to let your dogs run and decent trails nearby," according to Kevin D., making it suitable for multiple age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Level sites present challenges at some locations. At Mercer-Grove City KOA, "Level, wooded sites and clean bathrooms. No area to wash dishes. Lots of space for each sites and trees for shade," reports Kelly F.
Access routes: Follow campground directions rather than GPS. "We use both the RV Garmin 890 & RV Trip Wizard and both had us doing some crazy side roads to get into the KOA. Be sure to use the park's directions for an easier drive in," advises Jen O. at Mercer-Grove City KOA.
Hookup availability: Full-service options vary by campground. Many visitors appreciate "Electric Site 37 - pad is pretty level, plenty for our small camper and truck, on a slight hill to get to fire ring but lots of space to spread out," as described by Shannon G. at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground.
