Several RV campgrounds operate near Olanta, Pennsylvania, situated within the Appalachian Plateau at elevations between 1,400-1,800 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from April through October, though limited winter camping options exist at select locations.
What to do
Fishing at Prince Gallitzin State Park: The 1,635-acre Glendale Lake provides opportunities for bass, pike, and panfish. "Huge lake for water sports, scenic trails, small dirt bike oval track," notes one visitor to Crooked Run Campground — Prince Gallitzin State Park.
Mountain biking on local trails: Several campgrounds connect to trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls," reports a Girl Scout leader who visited Prince Gallitzin.
Star gazing at higher elevations: Lower light pollution at mountain campgrounds creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Gorgeous night skies" are mentioned by campers at Kalyumet Campground, which sits at a higher elevation away from larger towns.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. "The bathrooms/showers (3 of the 4 look brand new), and the pool has been crystal clear," notes a reviewer about Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons, who adds that "the staff goes out of their way to ensure that you feel welcome."
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access. At Prince Gallitzin State Park, a camper mentions it "has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids."
Hiking opportunities: Trail networks connect many campgrounds. Black Moshannon visitors appreciate the "wooded sites and most were okay for tent camping" with "a few miles of hiking and biking trails right from the campground."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from spring through fall. According to a Black Moshannon State Park Campground camper, "The Iron Ore mines from the past have left the creek water stained red which is why its called the Red Mo with the locals."
GPS navigation challenges: Several campgrounds require driving through complex routes. A reviewer for DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA warns, "This KOA is located 5 miles in the back of a gated community. Signage is lacking and it's confusing to locate once past the gate, especially after a long day of driving."
Utility setup variations: Hookup configurations vary by campground. At Kalyumet Campground, campers note: "Some sites require over 50' of hose and multiple power cords to reach power box due to the great amount of trees providing good shade throughout camp ground."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer structured activities for children. At Rvino - Campers Paradise, visitors report "The store front has anything you can think of, and the playground is conveniently located. The swimming pool is always cold but feels great on a nice hot day."
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks feature ranger-led programs. A visitor to Timber Run Campground (formerly Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA) mentions attending "RayCEP which is an education program that PA DNCR provides talking about various outdoorsy type things. This is primarily for kids, but we sat and listened too."
Playground access: Family-friendly facilities are important considerations. A camper at Greene Hills Family Campground notes that their 70 sites include dedicated play areas with organized weekend activities for children during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: RV sites vary significantly in size and levelness. At DuBois / Treasure Lake KOA, a camper advises: "Rock sites mostly level. Most sites are huge. Dog run is ok and have to walk a good was to the trash bin depending on campsite. Will be back. Some sites have concrete patio which I do recommend."
Hookup extension requirements: Prepare for varying utility locations. A camper at Kalyumet shares: "Our only complaint would be the site we were in (11) and others next to it were quite far from the water and cable hookups. I ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection."
Interior road navigation: RV campgrounds near Olanta, Pennsylvania often feature challenging access roads. One reviewer notes about Timber Run Campground: "The sites weren't hard to level our RV but overall the sites are hilly and in fact the whole park is on a hill."
