Tent and RV camping options surround Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania, with sites located within the Laurel Highlands region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,900 feet. The area's varied terrain creates distinct camping microclimates, with higher elevation campgrounds often 5-10 degrees cooler than valley locations during summer months. Most campgrounds in this region close for winter between late October and mid-April, though some offer year-round accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails and rock climbing: At Coopers Rock State Forest, visitors find numerous hiking opportunities plus rock climbing on modest pitches. "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!" notes visitor Nick P.
Skiing and winter sports: Winter visitors can access Seven Springs ski resort from multiple campgrounds. Laurel Hill State Park is particularly well-positioned for winter recreation. "It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," mentions reviewer Jill R.
Watercraft rentals: Laurel Hill State Park offers affordable kayak rentals at $15 per hour. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," writes Erik E., mentioning the wide, flat walking trails around the lake that accommodate families.
What campers like
Rural tranquility near urban centers: Fox Den Acres Campground offers peaceful camping with urban conveniences nearby. "Although the campground is close to several large cities, it is very relaxed, wooded, and quiet. We weren't to sure what to expect as we usually camp in much more remote areas, but we enjoyed the park very much," notes one reviewer.
Spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds accommodate tent campers with designated areas. At Fox Den Acres, "Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away," reports Dena L.
Star-gazing opportunities: Benner's Meadow Run Camping & Cabins features a dedicated star-gazing platform. "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had a amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform," shares Tom C., highlighting the campground's family-friendly amenities.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, campground loops vary significantly in privacy and atmosphere. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded...Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy. We drove through the other one and it looks so much nicer," advises Casey L.
Seasonal timing affects facilities: Many campgrounds open limited facilities before Memorial Day. "We stayed early in the season so many of the amenities were not open yet. We did watch kids fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!!" reports a Fox Den Acres visitor.
Noise levels vary by location: Road and campground noise can affect stays. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, "If you HAVE KIDS young enough to have to keep an eye on the kabins and spots facing the pillow ARE PRIME...If you DONT have kids or have a napper in the family, expect constant noise until quiet time," advises one reviewer.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run specializes in family entertainment. "This Yogi Bear campground offers a large waterpark area, large pool, monster truck rides and many activities. You don't have to leave to find something to do, but there are also many local attractions as well. Kids love it here," shares Terra B.
Budget-friendly water features: Many parks offer swimming options without additional fees. At Keystone State Park, "Keystone lake provided us swimming, boating, fishing on our hot and humid camping trip," writes one visitor who enjoyed the park's beach and lake access.
Fishing success for children: Multiple parks feature stocked fishing ponds where children can experience success. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, they maintain a fishing pond, and visitors can rent "a few small non motor boats" for exploring the water.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: At The Blue Canoe RV Resort (formerly Uniontown KOA), RV sites vary in quality. "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids. Staff make multiple rounds, picks up your trash and delivers your purchased firewood. Personally takes you to you site and helps you back in/pull in," explains Rob S., though noting the fire rings are arranged in rows with limited privacy.
Limited level sites at state parks: Laurel Hill State Park presents challenges for larger RVs. "The RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," warns Kathy L., suggesting careful site selection for those with larger rigs.
Electrical access considerations: At Laurel Hill, electrical connections may require planning. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E.
For those seeking glamping close to Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania, several campgrounds offer upscale tent accommodations. Beyond the cannabis farm yurts mentioned previously, luxury tent glamping is available within a 45-minute drive of Belle Vernon, providing comfort without sacrificing outdoor immersion.
