Nestled in western Pennsylvania, Butler County offers diverse camping options surrounded by Appalachian foothills and forests at elevations ranging from 900-1300 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer highs averaging around 80°F and winters dipping into the 20s. Many campgrounds remain open from April through October, while some accommodate year-round visitors.
What to do
Explore McConnells Mill State Park: Located just minutes from Breakneck Campground, this park offers approximately 30 miles of trails and opportunities for rock climbing, rappelling, and white water kayaking. "McConnlls mills park is 100 yards away and has approx, 30 miles of trails and part of the north country trail. there is rock climbing, rappelling, white water kayaking and fishing," notes Daniel L.
Visit nearby Lake Arthur: About 3 minutes from Breakneck Campground, this lake within Moraine State Park provides multiple water recreation options. "Moraine state park is 3 minutes away with lake Aurther for sailing, canoeing, power boating, bike trails, frisbee golf coarse and swimming," explains a visitor.
Discover local attractions: The region offers interesting side trips beyond the parks. One family staying at Mercer-Grove City KOA shared, "It's close to the outlets and Keystone Safari. They have a fishing pond but I haven't walked over and seen it. It's across the street of the KOA so you could miss it if you don't ask about it."
What campers like
Private creek-side camping: Some campgrounds offer secluded sites away from the main camping areas. A camper at Breakneck Campground reported, "We definitely lucked out with one of the best campsites; we were right next to the creek, it was super spacious and super private. There's rough terrain so typically these sites are walk in but there wasn't many people so they allowed us to take our truck."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Shower houses and restrooms at several campgrounds receive high marks for cleanliness. At Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest, one visitor called it "Probably the cleanest shower house I have ever seen at a campground."
Yurt camping options: Butler, Pennsylvania offers several yurt camping alternatives not limited to the resorts mentioned in the existing description. A visitor to Kozy Rest shared, "We've stayed in cabins, yurts, tents, and our camper. Always up kept and very clean. Have to try out there Halloween production."
What you should know
Site placement varies significantly: Not all sites are created equal, and location matters. At Kalyumet Campground, a camper advised, "We plan to return but 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."
Weather considerations: Pennsylvania's variable climate means being prepared for changing conditions. At Keystone State Park Campground, a camper noted, "We had a big night of rain and with the wind it dried up pretty quickly."
Weekday vs. weekend experience: For a quieter experience, consider mid-week stays. A visitor to Fox Den Acres Campground observed, "I think the weekends would be too full for my taste but mid week was very quiet."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-focused amenities: Some properties specialize in family-friendly activities. At the Madison-Pittsburgh KOA, one visitor noted, "If you HAVE KIDS young enough to have to keep an eye on the kabins and spots facing the pillow ARE PRIME (kids wait for it to blow up every morning), play ground, and pool."
Consider seasonal events: Many campgrounds offer special activities during holidays or themed weekends. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, families can enjoy "swimming, fishing, movie nites, gamerooms…fun for the whole family."
Site selection for privacy: When camping with children, location within the campground matters. One visitor to Fox Den Acres mentioned, "Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away."
Tips from RVers
Pay attention to access routes: Some campgrounds have specific approach routes that work better for large rigs. A visitor to Mercer-Grove City KOA advised, "We use both the RV Garmin 890 & RV Trip Wizard and both had us doing some crazy side roads to get into the KOA. Be sure to use the park's directions for an easier drive in."
Electrical connections can be tricky: At some campgrounds, full hookup sites may require additional equipment. At Kalyumet Campground, a camper warned, "Most of the sites are pretty close together, though" and another mentioned having to "run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection."
Check site leveling: Not all sites are naturally level, which can impact comfort in an RV. At Madison-Pittsburgh KOA, one visitor reported, "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites."
