Tent camping near Confluence, Pennsylvania offers a mix of free and paid options nestled along mountain ridges and river valleys. The Laurel Highlands region ranges in elevation from 1,200 to over 2,900 feet, creating varied conditions across seasons. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer months, with average lows in the 50s during July.
What to do
River paddling access: At Big Run State Park Campground, waterfront tent sites provide direct access to paddling opportunities. "The camp sites next to the reservoir have no privacy but offer extremely easy access for canoes/kayaks," notes Katie H. The park allows four different access types: boat-in, drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in.
Explore fall foliage: October brings spectacular leaf colors to the Laurel Highlands. "This trail is especially popular in October and on long weekends, so if you're coming to the woods for solitude or silence, avoid those times," advises Brian S. about the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail within Laurel Ridge State Park.
Swim in natural waterways: Many tent sites near Confluence allow direct access to swimming spots. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," writes Shari G. about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground. Sites near creeks often provide natural cooling options during summer heat.
What campers like
Wildlife encounters: Tent camping around Confluence puts you in proximity to diverse wildlife. "I've heard a barred owl at night both times I camped here," says Brian S. about Laurel Ridge State Park Campground. The park's wooded campsites provide natural habitat viewing opportunities.
Train-watching: While train noise disturbs some campers, others appreciate the historical connection. "Usually the forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough, but the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable," notes Shari G. about water availability at one campsite.
Overflow camping options: Even when designated tent pads are full, many areas provide additional space. "There is plenty of grassy area for scores of tents in this area. So if you are not fortunate enough to secure one of the two Shelters or tent pads, you can still set up a tent in the nicely mowed areas, which are still level," explains a camper at Roundbottom.
What you should know
Water treatment necessary: Most primitive campgrounds require water treatment. "The camping areas are supposed to have firewood and water, but the wood is often punky, and the water needs to be treated," warns Brian S. Campers should bring filters or purification tablets for river water.
Train noise disturbances: Railways parallel many camping areas, creating significant noise issues. "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!" advises Shari G. about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground.
Seasonal availability: Several tent campgrounds near Confluence have limited operating seasons. "Laurel Ridge State Park is the greenway that protects the legendary Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail from the busy world around it," notes Brian S., with most facilities operating May through October.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with river play areas: Stream access provides natural entertainment for children. "The stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish. So quiet and very little traffic. Tons of space between sites," reports Nathan S. about Big Run State Park.
Look for flat, spacious sites: Family camping requires adequate space for multiple tents. "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water," shares Andy C. about site selection at Big Run State Park.
Seek out shelters during rain: Adirondack shelters provide weather protection for families. "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain," notes Dave V. about camping along the GAP trail.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Confluence lack RV hookups. "Barnum has multiple ways for you to enjoy your stay. Primitive campsites are $10 a night. Small cabins are $35 a night, with larger cabins going at $56 a night. There is electricity in the cabins," explains Frank G. about Barnum Whitewater Area.
Consider cabin alternatives: When tent camping isn't practical, several areas offer rustic cabin options. "Had my wedding 2022 at Jennings picnic area and then after that spent the whole weekend away from everyone and everything! Peaceful in September love the area," shares Ashley A. about her experience at Barnum Whitewater Area.
Check site length restrictions: Many Confluence camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. "The camping area is kinda packed together, but the main draw here is the river," notes Frank G., indicating that RVers should research site dimensions before arrival.
