Tent camping near Carnegie, Pennsylvania centers around the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail system, with most sites positioned within 15-30 miles of Pittsburgh. The region features a mix of riverside camping areas and sheltered locations that experience seasonal temperature variations ranging from summer highs in the 80s to cooler fall camping when temperatures drop into the 50s at night. Train noise affects most camping locations due to their proximity to active rail lines.
What to do
River access for swimming: The Youghiogheny River provides cool relief during summer months at campgrounds like Dravo's Landing Campground. As one camper noted, "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail."
Visit historic sites: Some camping areas feature unique nearby attractions worth exploring. At Dravo's Landing, campers can explore local history. "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," mentions one visitor.
Mountain biking opportunities: The region offers trail access beyond the main GAP path. At Mountain View Camps, a camper recommends to "Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
What campers like
Spacious layouts: Many campsites provide ample room for larger groups. One camper at Dravo's Landing Campground shared, "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."
Volunteer-maintained facilities: Local groups keep many camping areas in good condition. A visitor to Round Bottom Camping Area noted, "Usually the vault toilets along this trail are clean, maintained and stocked," though they did mention experiencing an exception after a busy weekend.
Peaceful weekday camping: Tent campers seeking solitude should consider timing their visits. According to one camper at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "The only people you will see are the ones who've biked, boated, or walked in," creating a remote feel despite proximity to trail access.
What you should know
Water treatment necessities: Potable water isn't always available at GAP trail camping areas. At some locations, "The bathrooms are the standard forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough, but the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable."
Food storage requirements: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions at tent sites. A camper at Dravo's Landing warns, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Advance planning for backcountry sites: For more remote tent camping, Laurel Ridge State Park Campground requires preparation. A visitor explains, "You have to reserve a rustic campsite beforehand," and notes that "The camping areas are supposed to have firewood and water, but the wood is often punky, and the water needs to be treated."
Tips for camping with families
Shaded options for summer heat: Several camping areas offer natural cover from sun exposure. At Pioneer Trails Tree Farm Campground, families appreciate the unique setting. One visitor shared, "Camping in a tree farm has been cool! Clean bathroom. Office to charge electronics and a campsite with firepit was great."
Bathroom proximity: Consider campsite location relative to facilities when camping with children. One family camper noted, "Only wish toilet access was a little closer for the women. Nevertheless, we definitely recommend staying here."
Educational opportunities: Several camping areas provide natural learning experiences for children. A visitor to Pioneer Trails mentioned, "The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids. It was very easy and relaxing."
Tips from RVers
Limited accessibility: Most camping areas near Carnegie cater primarily to tent campers with minimal RV accommodations. The GAP Trail Campground specifies it's for "Bikers Only," with one camper describing it as "More like a Spa than a Campground" with "the covered seating, dining, and cooking area" being particularly noteworthy.
Tent platforms: Some locations offer raised surfaces for tent setup, which can benefit smaller RVs during wet conditions. A camper described Round Bottom's amenities as including "Raised Tent pads (4)" among other features that might accommodate small camper vans.
Town proximity for supplies: When minimal services exist at campgrounds, nearby towns provide necessities. One camper mentioned, "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well."
