Tent campsites near Clymer, Pennsylvania offer varied camping experiences in the Allegheny foothills region, with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,600 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping is limited due to average snowfall of 40-50 inches annually, with most campgrounds closing from October through April.
What to do
Explore game lands: Mountain View Camps provides access to nearby state game lands with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," notes camper Richard C.
River activities: The Youghiogheny River offers multiple water recreation options within driving distance of Clymer. Dravo's Landing Campground provides direct river access for kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Lauren C. shares, "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail."
Stargazing: Clear night skies in rural Pennsylvania make this region ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. Minimal light pollution at sites like Long Acres on Clover Creek creates optimal stargazing conditions. Sarah A. mentioned, "The stars are so bright out here and the tent was absolutely fabulous!"
What campers like
Secluded creek-side spots: Long Acres on Clover Creek offers tent sites with natural water features and privacy. According to Sarah A., "This campsite was absolutely perfect! The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality."
Trail connectivity: Many campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. Dravo's Landing is strategically positioned along the Allegheny Gap trail. Shari G. explains, "This campsite is a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail (it's the last one before Pittsburgh!), and a nice easy introduction to bikepacking camping for the east-bound."
Lean-to shelters: Some campgrounds provide built structures for those who prefer not to set up tents. Sarah Q. from Dravo's Landing reports, "We made friends with a few other folks who were stopping at Dravo during their bike trips along the GAP, and everyone appreciated the abundance of picnic tables, fire pits, lean-tos, and the nearby river."
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Local wildlife requires proper food storage at tent campsites. Sarah Q. warns campers at Dravo's Landing Campground, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Train noise: Camping near rail lines can affect sleep quality. Shari G. notes about Dravo's Landing, "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up – so bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep!"
Seasonal operation: Most tent campgrounds in the Clymer area operate seasonally. Colwells Campground runs from May 1 to September 30, closing during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly facilities: Nanty Glo Municipal Park offers basic tent camping with electric hookups suitable for family outings. The park provides open spaces for group activities within 18 miles of Clymer.
Multi-group accommodations: Dravo's Landing can accommodate larger family gatherings. Sarah Q. describes, "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."
Historical elements: Incorporate educational opportunities into family camping trips. Lauren C. mentions a unique feature at Dravo's Landing: "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire."
Tips from RVers
Distance planning: For RVers visiting tent campsites near Clymer, Clarion Wild and Scenic River offers primitive camping opportunities approximately 40 miles north. The route requires navigation of smaller state highways with varying road conditions.
Hookup limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds offer minimal or no RV hookups. Mountain View Camps provides electric hookups but limited water hookups. RVers should arrive with full water tanks and plan for boondocking conditions at most sites.
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds require walk-in access to tent sites. Shari G. notes Dravo's Landing is "the special project of a very industrious group of scouts" with improved facilities, but RVers should verify vehicle access and parking availability before arrival.
