Camping sites around Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania typically range between 1,000-1,200 feet elevation with the Laurel Highlands rising to the southeast and the Monongahela River Valley running along the western edge. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August. The camping season extends from April through October, with some sites offering limited winter access for cold-weather enthusiasts.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: The Youghiogheny River offers multiple access points for paddling. The Uniontown KOA (now Blue Canoe RV Resort) sits directly on the river, with one camper noting, "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups... Staff make multiple rounds, picks up your trash and delivers your purchased firewood." The boat ramp may require careful navigation during low water periods.
Biking on the GAP Trail: The Great Allegheny Passage runs through several camping areas, providing car-free cycling opportunities. At Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run, "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)." The free sites include raised tent pads, vault toilets and Adirondack shelters.
Frank Lloyd Wright architecture: Fallingwater and other architectural landmarks are within 30-45 minutes of most Belle Vernon area campgrounds. One camper at Ohiopyle State Park mentioned, "We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities!"
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate swimming and water activities beyond just the Youghiogheny. At Fox Den Acres Campground, "We did watch kids fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!! So much fun for them." The campground includes both a swimming pool and separate fishing pond.
Accessibility to Pittsburgh: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring the city while staying in natural settings. One camper noted that Fox Den Acres is "a lovely camp ground with very nice people... a great option very near Pittsburgh." Most sites are within 35-60 minutes of downtown Pittsburgh attractions.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds in the region generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness and upkeep. At Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort, campers praise the "beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites, modern hookups, good shower/laundry facilities, nice fire rings with built in grills, trash pickup service."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks parallel many camping areas, particularly those along rivers or the GAP trail. At Round Bottom, one camper warned, "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."
Seasonal availability: While many campgrounds advertise year-round operation, services and amenities fluctuate significantly. A camper at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA noted that "the pool (clean and small but does the job), they try to open it ASAP every year." Off-season camping may mean limited water access and closed facilities.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in the region feature significant elevation changes. At Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, a camper described "very steep narrow roads to access campground and sites...sites not level." Always call ahead to ensure your vehicle can handle the access roads to your chosen campground.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Families appreciate campgrounds with multiple activities on-site. At Fox Den Acres, a reviewer described it as a "family oriented" campground that "provides activities almost every evening, making sure every age range is catered to throughout the week."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for specific features that appeal to children. One camper at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA mentioned that "the kabins and spots facing the pillow ARE PRIME (kids wait for it to blow up every morning), play ground (basic-not toddler friendly, there's a sand pit that's not covered up at night where they HAD some toddler play stuff)."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer organized activities with learning components. At The GAP Trail Campground, campers can easily walk to nearby towns and historical sites, making it ideal for families wanting to combine recreation with education. One camper described the setup as "spacious and lush lawn... perfect hybrid" of comfort and natural experience.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several Belle Vernon area campgrounds have sloped sites requiring preparation. At Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, "A dozen or so of the sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable."
Access considerations: RV drivers should carefully research routes. One camper at Fox Den Acres advised, "Mostly an RV campground... Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight." Despite being RV-focused, access roads can still be challenging in the region's hilly terrain.
Hookup variations: Not all sites offering hookups provide the same services. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, a camper recommended "If you stay in one of the smaller kabins with a shower, just know there will be a flood and you should wet, turn the water off, lather, then rinse. Also don't think everyone is showering one after the other... it's very small water tank."
