Tent and yurt camping options near Clairton, Pennsylvania provide access to the Laurel Highlands region and surrounding forests within a 30-45 minute drive. The area sits at elevations ranging from 800-2,500 feet with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, though several sites offer year-round access.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Kentuck Campground at Ohiopyle State Park connects to multiple trails leading down to the Youghiogheny River. "The camp Wi-Fi isn't the best but we did have cell service with Consumer Cellular (AT&T Towers) and were able to work while we camped. The campground is only a short drive to the scenic overlook but if you're feeling adventurous you can take a hike," shares one visitor who appreciated the connectivity options while still enjoying outdoor access.
Bicycle the Great Allegheny Passage: The GAP trail runs directly through The Blue Canoe RV Resort, making it ideal for cyclists. "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground. For through riders on the trail there is a special place to camp, close to the west-bound entrance. The picnic tables and fire rings are surrounded by hammock poles and there's lots of space for scattered tents," notes a trail rider who appreciated the bike-in camping area.
Rock climbing access: Multiple bouldering locations within 45 minutes of Clairton provide climbing opportunities for beginners and experienced climbers. "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!" mentions a climber who frequents Coopers Rock State Forest.
What campers like
Lake fishing opportunities: Fishing ponds and lakes at multiple campgrounds offer easy access for anglers. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, one reviewer noted: "Nice campground with lots of sites. Sitting in a valley the site go up the hillside. Good amenities, pool and bathroom / showers," while another mentioned, "They have a pool, fishing pond and a cloud pillow with the playground next to it along with two small dog play areas."
Seasonal yurt camping: Yurts provide comfortable accommodation between traditional tents and cabins. "If your in the area, this is a good little spot. The facilities are a little rough & they don't always have someone in the office to help. The laundry facilities would keep me coming alone. They gave HUGE INDUSTRIAL SIZE washers & dryers. Quiet & quaint," shares a camper who stayed at Fox Den Acres Campground, which offers seasonal access from May through October.
Private wooded sites: Campers consistently mention appreciating sites with natural separation and tree cover. "Mostly an RV campground, but several tent sites. Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away. Firewood available for purchase. I would stay again," notes a tent camper who enjoyed the privacy at Fox Den Acres.
What you should know
Winter camping limitations: While most campgrounds close for winter, several offer limited services. "We're staying in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. Friendly and cozy spot. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots and leaving lots of information at the office," reports a winter camper at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Campground bathrooms range from basic to recently renovated. "The bathroom and shower facilities are modern and well maintained," notes a visitor to The Blue Canoe RV Resort, while another camper at Laurel Hill reported: "Basic and dated, but reasonably clean. Did not use the shower."
Site levelness challenges: Many campsites in the mountain region require leveling equipment. "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 so I imagine it was just the time of year we visited," mentioned one RVer at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for children: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options during summer months. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run, a visitor shares: "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."
Natural water slides: Some natural features provide unique water recreation opportunities. "Just outside town as you climb the hill, to the left is Sliding Rock. Get there early to get a parking spot…and then look forward to having some serious liquid fun. A natural water slide extends around 100 feet as it winds through the rock," advises a camper familiar with the features near Ohiopyle State Park.
Playground accessibility: Campgrounds with playground equipment receive higher ratings from family campers. "There is a playground for the kids and plenty of room for them to play," noted a visitor to Coopers Rock State Forest, while another family at Fox Den Acres commented, "Wonderful campground. They provide activities almost every evening, making sure everything age range is catered to throughout the week."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have significant variation between sites. "The campground hosted a gigantic bonfire the night we were there which was a sight! The sites are pretty close together and we couldn't use our fire ring because it ended up being very close to our rig. Luckily we camped with friends who had more space in their spot (the end spot near the lake has to be the best spot in the place)," explains an RVer who stayed at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Electrical hookups placement: At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, an RVer noted: "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable." This practical tip helps RVers prepare properly for their stay.
Seasonal RV considerations: Local campground operation schedules affect availability. "Quiet in the camp but lots of highway noise at night if the breeze is just right. Nice pull-thrus with full hookups for overnights. Bring a quarter for a 10 minute shower!" advises an RV camper at Fox Den Acres, highlighting both the amenities and limitations of the site.
