The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail intersects with numerous camping opportunities within 30 miles of Blairsville, Pennsylvania. The region sits in the Laurel Highlands, with elevations ranging from 900 to 2,800 feet. Tent camping areas frequently experience temperature drops of 15-20 degrees at night compared to daytime highs, particularly in spring and fall when overnight temperatures can dip into the 30s.
What to do
Fishing access at trailheads: Round Bottom Camping Area provides direct access to the Youghiogheny River for anglers. According to Dave V., "It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking," highlighting the proximity to fishing spots without needing to break camp.
Cannabis-friendly camping options: Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers unique programming for adults. Ashley F. notes, "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," providing an unconventional activity for campers seeking something different.
Cemetery exploration: Several campgrounds near Blairsville sit adjacent to historic burial grounds. One camper at Dravo's Landing Campground mentions it's "close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," creating built-in evening entertainment opportunities.
What campers like
Luxury amenities on the GAP Trail: The GAP Trail Campground - Bikers Only offers unexpected comforts. Shari G. describes it as "more like a Spa than a Campground" where "the outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not."
Proximity to local towns: Some campsites provide easy access to nearby communities. At The GAP Trail Campground, "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities," allowing campers to restock or enjoy a meal out without transportation.
Opportunities for shorter trips: For those wanting to test bikepacking without committing to long journeys, Dravo's Landing works well. One reviewer 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 you should know
Water quality concerns: Many campgrounds have unreliable water sources. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, Shari G. reported, "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."
Train noise disruption: Railroad traffic affects sleep quality at riverside campgrounds. Multiple reviewers mention train noise, with one noting, "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up -- so bring good earplugs!"
Maintenance varies by season: Facilities can deteriorate during peak usage periods. One camper at Round Bottom noted, "Usually the vault toilets along this trail are clean, maintained and stocked…but on this visit, piles of trash were inside likely from an overly busy weekend."
Tips for camping with families
Look for level ground: Families with multiple tents should target campgrounds with open areas. Dave V. observes that Round Bottom has "plenty of grassy area for scores of tents in this area. So if you are not fortunate enough to secure one of the two Shelters or tent pads, you can still set up a tent in the nicely mowed areas, which are still level."
Consider wildlife encounters: Some sites have active wildlife that can entertain or frustrate younger campers. Sarah Q. at Dravo's Landing advises, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Weekday camping recommended: For families seeking quieter experiences, mid-week visits offer advantages. One reviewer noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options near the trail: Most GAP Trail campsites accommodate tents only. For RVers, Mountain View Camps offers one of the few options with electric hookups within reasonable distance of Blairsville.
Consider proximity to nature activities: RV campers report enjoying access to outdoor recreation. Richard C. notes Mountain View Camps is a "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
Site leveling challenges: The terrain in the Laurel Highlands presents difficulties for larger vehicles. One camper at Indian Creek Camplands noted the area has "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," suggesting RVers should bring leveling blocks.
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