Situated in the Laurel Highlands region at elevations near 2,800 feet, Champion offers camping opportunities with seasonal challenges. The area typically experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs averaging 10-15 degrees below Pittsburgh's temperatures. Winter camping requires preparation for snow accumulation that can exceed 100 inches annually in this mountainous terrain.
What to do
Bouldering and rock climbing: Laurel Hill State Park provides accessible climbing for all skill levels. "There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb and even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," notes Jill R. about Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Boating and kayak rentals: Several lakes offer water activities within short driving distance. At Laurel Hill, "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," according to Erik E. The park features "a large lake and designated swimming area" that attracts visitors throughout summer.
Visit national memorials: When staying near the Champion area, access historic sites within reasonable driving distance. Gregory L. from Roaring Run Resort notes: "The campground is about 40 minutes from the Flight 93 National Memorial, about 20 minutes from Fallingwater, and there were a couple of wineries in the area as well."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded options despite their proximity to major highways. At Scarlett Knob Campground, Bradley B. shares: "It's very cheap and rustic. The sites are pretty spread out and full of trees. So for tent camping it is fantastic. Each site feels very private and the atmosphere is great."
Clean facilities: Several parks maintain exceptional bathroom standards. Robert C. found Ohiopyle State Park to have "very nice campground" with "a multitude of fun activities to do in the area. I feel fortunate to live only about 2 hours from this beautiful place, with the Montour biking/hiking trail running right through it."
Accessible fishing: Water features at many campgrounds allow for fishing opportunities without leaving the grounds. At Pioneer Park Campground, Sherry C. commented: "So many areas to fish that more time would have been great. Clean showers." The campground features multiple fishing spots suitable for all experience levels.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have significant variation in site quality and privacy. Casey L. advises about Laurel Highlands Campland: "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy."
Road noise: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds in the region. Theresa T. notes about Donegal Campground: "The highway noise is a little loud, so it takes away from the great sounds of camping, like the crickets, frogs and fire crackling." Similarly, Indy A. mentions, "The campground is situated right off of the main road so the road noise can be an issue if it bothers you."
Seasonal insect issues: The wooded landscape means insect management is necessary. Fred R. observed at Roaring Run Resort: "The worms are killing all the trees though and camper was covered in green poop from all of them in the trees." Similarly, Danielle V. found Ohiopyle "buggy, not well maintained, and covered in poison ivy."
Tips for camping with families
Water parks and activities: Family-oriented campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run, Erik W. reports: "Mill run by far the best yogi bear/campground we have been to. Second time we have been & they have upgraded the water slides, 4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids & the original 2 big water slides in woods."
Playground facilities: Many campgrounds feature recreational areas for children. Matt R. noted Keystone State Park has "a large lake and designated swimming area. Place attracts a lot of people in the summer as it's basically in the Pittsburgh suburbs along a major road artery." The park includes "a playground, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Champion: For families traveling with pets, several options accommodate four-legged members. Kevin E. shares about Keystone: "We stayed at site 43 in the Hillside Loop because we brought our 2 large dogs. Site was very private and relatively flat." Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Champion require leashes and proper cleanup.
Tips from RVers
Electrical challenges: Many campgrounds have limited electrical options. Gregory L. noted about Roaring Run Resort: "There are no sewer hookups and no 50 amp service, the whole park is 30 amp. The sites are reasonable level, but the one we had was a little tricky to get into because of it being on a hill, but it was manageable."
Leveling considerations: Campsites throughout the region often require adjustment for larger rigs. Kathy L. observed at Kooser State Park Campground: "The sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites." Kevin E. adds: "Many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level."
Site size limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. Kate D. notes: "Sites can be a bit small or awkward for campers. Our neighbor had a bit of a rough time accessing our shared electric box." Similarly, Marc P. warns: "The pull through sites are only large enough for your camper (barely)."