The Laurel Highlands region surrounding Confluence, Pennsylvania sits at elevations between 1,200 and 2,800 feet, creating milder summer temperatures than nearby Pittsburgh. This mountainous area receives significant snowfall in winter months, with many cabins near Confluence, Pennsylvania remaining accessible year-round. The region's waterways, including the Youghiogheny River, create opportunities for water recreation adjacent to many camping areas.
What to do
Hiking and trail access: At Swallow Falls State Park, visitors can explore Maryland's tallest waterfall. "Hiking here is gorgeous, and a good workout too," notes Jillian K. Multiple trails connect directly to camping areas: "The trail head is right in the campground so that made it extremely easy," writes Don L.
Water recreation: Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run offers direct lake access with boating options. "We camped here with our RV and boat. The boat ramp, slips and trailer storage made it an easy boating/camping vacation spot. Yough lake is small, but fun to explore. Good fishing," explains Kathy G. The swimming areas remain popular during summer months.
Winter activities: Cabin rentals continue through snowy months at several locations. "Swallow falls is awesome year round. In the winter the snow and ice is beautiful, fall is lovely and summer is fun," reports Marcandpatti B. Cross-country skiing trails become available at multiple parks when snow conditions permit.
What campers like
Private sites: Many cabins provide separation from neighbors. At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform," reports Tom C. Tree cover adds privacy at many locations.
Proximity to attractions: Cabin locations provide strategic access to regional highlights. "We stayed for 2 nights while we visited Fallingwater and the Flight 93 Memorial. We should have stayed another night so we could visit Fort Necessity NP just down the road," notes Tim & Nancy C. from Benner's Meadow Run.
Family entertainment: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run specializes in activities for children. "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," reports Erik W. The park offers programmed entertainment throughout the season.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at most cabin locations. "Book early for holidays," advises Rob B. about Benner's Meadow Run. This applies particularly to waterfront sites and full-hookup locations.
Road conditions: Access to some cabin areas requires navigating mountain roads. "Tub Run Road is a rough (but pretty) ride to the campground. Once you hit the property, everything is well-maintained," explains Laurel K. Winter travel may require all-wheel drive at certain locations.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon," reports Lee D. Some locations offer WiFi near office buildings while cabins in valleys often have limited signals.
Local supplies: Most cabins require bringing linens, cooking equipment, and food. "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close," advises Robert C. about camping near Ohiopyle.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-generational options: Hickory Hollow Campground provides unique accommodation choices. "We stayed in the covered wagon, which was pretty cool. The covered wagon sites (there are 2) are isolated in their own clearing within the trees next to the lake," describes Jessica D. These specialty units appeal to families with children.
Weather considerations: Prepare for temperature variations, especially in spring and fall. "The weather was crazy the one night I stayed! Thunderstorms turned to ice turned to snow which made the area even more beautiful!" recounts Michele F. about New Germany State Park. Cabins with heating provide advantages during temperature drops.
Playground access: Many cabin areas include dedicated play spaces. "I stayed at site 28 which was backed by a large wooded area. It was however a hike to the bathhouse," notes Michele F. Consider proximity to bathrooms when booking with small children.
Nature education: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound near cabins. "Deer are dense in these parts, and bears frequent the area," mentions Bill G. about New Germany State Park. Some locations offer ranger programs or nature centers during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Kooser State Park Campground, "my only complaint is that many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level," warns Kevin E. Reviewers frequently mention checking site photos before booking.
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. "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," advises Erik E. at Laurel Hill State Park.
Access limitations: Size restrictions apply at several locations. "It has a mix of camper & tent sites around a central clearing, and offers a few cabins. There is a central bathroom with showers, flush toilets and a sink to wash your dishes," explains Jonathan B. about Kooser State Park, where larger RVs may struggle with access roads and turning radius.
