Tent camping near Braddock, Pennsylvania centers around the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail, a 150-mile converted railway corridor connecting Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. Most primitive camping areas sit along the Youghiogheny River at elevations between 760-850 feet, creating level terrain suitable for tent platforms. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, with higher humidity near the river.
What to do
River access for swimming: Camping at Dravo's Landing Campground offers direct Youghiogheny River access for cooling off. "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail," reports Lauren C., who found the riverside location perfect for summer camping.
Explore historic sites: Several campsites feature nearby historical points of interest. At Dravo's Landing, campers can visit an old cemetery adjacent to the camping area. As Lauren C. notes, the cemetery is "useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire."
Bike the GAP Trail: The trail system provides an excellent cycling opportunity with connections to multiple camping areas. Shari G. describes The GAP Trail Campground as "a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well," making it convenient for cyclists needing supplies.
Participate in unique activities: Some campgrounds offer specialized recreational options. At Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm, Ashley F. mentions that "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," providing a distinctive camping experience.
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds feature ample room for group camping. Sarah Q. appreciated Dravo's Landing, noting "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."
Well-maintained amenities: Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground offers basic but functional facilities. Shari G. reports, "The bathrooms are the standard forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough," though she advises bringing water as the well is marked non-potable.
Scenic overlooks: Some campsites provide elevated views of the surrounding landscape. At Laurel Ridge State Park Campground, Brian S. notes the area has "several dramatic overlooks out over valleys to the east," adding he's "heard a barred owl at night both times I camped here."
Unique shelter options: Beyond standard tent sites, some campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. Shari G. describes Roundbottom as having a layout "with lean-tos, picnic tables, firepits and lots of spaces for tents," providing multiple shelter options for hikers and cyclists.
What you should know
Train noise issues: Railway proximity affects most riverside campsites. Dave V. at Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run warns, "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 quality concerns: Multiple campgrounds report questionable water sources. At Round Bottom, Dave V. observed "there is hand pump but the water was discolored. It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking."
Wildlife considerations: Food storage precautions are necessary at many sites. Sarah Q. cautions Dravo's Landing visitors to "be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Reservation systems vary: Most GAP Trail campsites operate on a first-come basis with limited availability during peak times. Brian S. notes for Laurel Ridge State Park, "You have to reserve a rustic campsite beforehand," and advises "This trail is especially popular in October and on long weekends, so if you're coming to the woods for solitude or silence, avoid those times."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-maintained facilities: Some campgrounds benefit from local volunteer upkeep. Shari G. describes Dravo's Landing as "the special project of a very industrious group of scouts, and they have done a nice job," noting the maintained wood pile and multiple picnic shelters make it suitable for family groups.
Swimming access for children: The river provides recreational opportunities for families. Shari G. notes at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," offering a cooling option for children during summer months.
Shelter options for unpredictable weather: Families benefit from overhead protection options. Dave V. explains at Round Bottom, "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain."
Tips from RVers
Limited vehicle access: Most camping areas along the GAP Trail cannot accommodate RVs. Dave V. emphasizes that Round Bottom "can only be accessed by the GAP Trail, which means on foot or bicycle...or paddlers on the Youghiogheny River."
Alternative nearby RV options: For those with small RVs, Indian Creek Camplands Inc offers more vehicle-accessible camping. Christopher M. describes it as a "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Off-season availability: Most GAP Trail campgrounds have limited seasonal operations. Brian S. notes Laurel Ridge State Park operates from "May to October," with specific camping areas having different accessibility depending on trailhead access points.
