Camping near Boswell, Pennsylvania typically ranges in elevation from 1,500 to 2,500 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect campground conditions throughout the season. Sites near creeks and waterways can be especially popular during summer months when temperatures remain cooler than surrounding areas. The Laurel Highlands region experiences temperature shifts that can drop 15-20 degrees at night compared to daytime highs.
What to do
Bouldering and climbing: At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, visitors can explore unique rock formations for climbing. "This was a very fun place! There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! and even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," notes Jill R.
Kayaking with kids: Rental options at Laurel Hill State Park provide budget-friendly water access for families. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," reports Erik E., who visited with children.
Visit Flight 93 Memorial: Several campgrounds serve as convenient base camps for visiting this historical site. "We stayed here to go to the flight 93 memorial so we didnt do much at the campground except fish cought a few nice bass," mentions a camper at Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
Trail running: The lake perimeter at Hickory Hollow Campground offers exercise options. "The trail around the lake was perfect for running or walking," according to Brandy Q., who appreciated the convenient exercise opportunity.
What campers like
Creek access for kids: At Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing, the small waterway provides natural entertainment. "Alot of their sites are along a small creek which the kids play in and can float down. Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek," shares Mathew H.
Tent-only sites: Campers seeking separation from RVs can find dedicated areas at Kooser State Park Campground. "There are really only three little tenting sites in a wooded area of the campground, a little higher up the hillside," explains Brian S., highlighting these tucked-away options.
Fishing access: Multiple stocked fishing areas make Pioneer Lakes RV Park popular with anglers. "We stayed here to go to the flight 93 memorial so we didnt do much at the campground except fish cought a few nice bass," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the productive fishing.
Off-leash dog areas: Hickory Hollow Campground provides dedicated pet spaces. "A small but convenient off-leash dog area was also a wonderful amenity," says Brandy Q., appreciating the dedicated space for four-legged campers.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require preparation for uneven terrain. At Shawnee State Park Campground, "Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," reports Lee D.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite forest settings. At Kooser State Park, "Route 31 is nearby but it wasn't all that noticeable," Kevin E. explains, noting that road sounds weren't overly disruptive.
Limited grocery access: Pack supplies before arrival as shopping options are sparse. "Not a lot of restaurants or stores nearby, so keep that in mind if you'll be there awhile," advises Becky C. about Hickory Hollow Campground.
Seasonal facility limitations: Off-season campers should verify which amenities remain operational. "We were hoping to do some hiking in the morning but got rained out. However the trails looked nice and we hope to be back soon," Laura writes about Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground evaluations: Check playground conditions before visiting as maintenance varies. At Quemahoning Family Recreation Area, "Wonderful staff and facilities. The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool! All in all, a wonderful place to take your family camping!" according to Rachel D.
Budget-friendly water activities: Many campgrounds offer affordable options for keeping children entertained. "Great place for fishing kayaking. Very family oriented," notes Kyle K. about Quemahoning Family Recreation Area.
Electric sites for family comfort: When camping with children, electric sites provide additional conveniences. "Driving around the rest of the RV park area we noted that many of the sites had very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them," observes Gerard about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Power hookup placement can be problematic at some sites. "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. about Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Sewer connection challenges: At Pioneer Park Campground, one visitor noted: "Sewer connection 'up hill'," indicating potential drainage issues requiring specialized equipment.
Site selection importance: Photos can be misleading, so research specific sites. "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked," shares Brittany V. about her Shawnee State Park experience.
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