Best Tent Camping near California, PA
The Laurel Highlands region surrounding California, Pennsylvania offers several tent-only camping options along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail, a converted rail trail that stretches from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run, located at mile 99 of the GAP Trail approximately 15 miles east of West Newton, provides free walk-in tent sites accessible only by foot or bicycle. Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, situated along the Youghiogheny River, features lean-to shelters, tent pads, and open grassy areas for primitive tent camping. Dravo's Landing Campground, another free tent camping area along the GAP Trail, offers similar amenities with river access.
Most tent campsites in this region feature basic amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Water availability varies significantly between locations, with some sites offering potable water while others require filtering from nearby rivers or bringing your own supply. The Round Bottom area includes four raised tent pads and two Adirondack shelters, plus ample level ground for additional tents. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations accepted at most primitive tent camping locations. Campers should note that train noise affects many of these riverside tent campgrounds, particularly at night when sound carries across the valley.
According to reviews, tent campers appreciate the spaciousness of these sites even when traveling in groups. One visitor noted, "There was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars" at Dravo's Landing. Campers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere of these walk-in tent sites despite their proximity to the trail. The Laurel Ridge State Park Campground, located farther from California, offers eight different tent camping areas along the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail with more backcountry character. These sites require advance reservations and provide a more secluded tent camping experience with dramatic valley overlooks. Visitors recommend securing food properly at all locations, as wildlife activity, particularly raccoons, is common around tent campsites.
