Tent camping along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail offers access to riverside sites at mile markers throughout the 150-mile route. The area features a humid continental climate with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds near Avella operate seasonally from April through October, with several sites offering river access for water filtration or swimming.
What to do
River access: Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground provides direct access to the Youghiogheny River for water activities. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes camper Shari G., who visited this free Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground.
Historic exploration: Visit the nearby cemetery close to Dravo's Landing for a glimpse into local history. Lauren C. mentions, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," making Dravo's Landing Campground a unique spot for both recreation and historical interest.
Biking distances: Plan day trips between camping locations, considering the 26-mile distance from Pittsburgh to Dravo's Landing. As Shari G. explains, "At 26 miles from Three Rivers Park, this makes a great place to get your head around what it might be like to ride and camp the whole way to Washington D.C."
What campers like
Spacious tent areas: Many tent sites offer generous space for multiple tents and groups. Sarah Q. reports about her experience at Dravo's Landing: "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
Cannabis-friendly options: For those seeking specialized camping environments, Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers unique tent and glamping options. Ashley F. describes it as "a cannabis friendly campground that overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains. One yurt with a bed is offered. Please no alcohol. Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending."
Well-maintained facilities: Some campgrounds along the GAP trail feature exceptionally clean and comfortable amenities. A reviewer at The GAP Trail Campground notes, "The outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not. The spacious and lush lawn has lots of space for tents, but the winner is the covered seating, dining, and cooking area."
What you should know
Train noise disruption: Regular train traffic affects most riverside campgrounds with significant noise, particularly at night. Dave V. warns about staying at Round Bottom Camping Area: "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River...it is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had."
Water sources vary: Not all campgrounds provide reliable drinking water. At Roundbottom, "the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing," according to Shari G.
Wildlife precautions: Food storage precautions are essential at the best tent camping near Avella, Pennsylvania. Sarah Q. cautions campers at Dravo's Landing: "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: For families with younger children, seek out the Adirondack-style shelters that offer protection from weather. A visitor to Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm noted they offer a comfortable yurt option that works well for families needing more structure than a tent provides.
First-come planning: Arrive early on weekdays to secure preferred spots, especially during summer months. Dave V. advises, "Bicycle traffic was fairly light during the week, so not only did you have the GAP Trail mostly to oneself, the camping areas were either sparsely filled or empty."
Town proximity: Some campgrounds offer walking distance to towns with restaurants and supplies. Shari G. mentions, "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well," which can be convenient when camping with children who might need additional supplies.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most sites near Avella are hike-in or bike-in only, with limited RV accessibility. Only tent camping is available at sites directly on the GAP trail, with primitive conditions and no hookups. RV campers should consider Lake Eron Park, which offers cabin options as alternatives to traditional RV camping.
Distance planning: RV campers need to research parking areas near trailheads to access the best tent camping near Avella. Bikers arriving from Pittsburgh can measure their journey using mile markers, as one camper notes, "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run is a free camping area directly on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail around Mile 99 (East of West Newton roughly 15 miles)."
