Connellsville, Pennsylvania camping sites are positioned along the Great Allegheny Passage trail system, situated at approximately 870 feet elevation where the Youghiogheny River cuts through the Laurel Highlands. The region experiences distinct four seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and significant snowfall during winter months. Many campsites in this region sit on sloped terrain requiring preparation for proper site leveling.
What to do
Creek exploration: Float and play in local waterways at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing where sites are arranged along a small creek that's perfect for children. "Alot of their sites are along a small creek which the kids play in and can float down. Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek," notes camper Mathew H.
Water activities: Enjoy multiple swimming pools at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run which features extensive water recreation options. "4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids & the original 2 big water slides in woods... can't go wrong going to mill run all ages will have a blast no matter what," shares Erik W. The park offers "2 swimming pools, 4 water slides, tractor rides, fire truck rides and a train ride alongside the free activities."
Star-gazing: Check out designated viewing areas at Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground which provides dedicated facilities for night sky observation. "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform," mentions Tom C. Though another camper noted that "The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Multiple campgrounds in the Connellsville area have updated their facilities. At the Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort, visitors appreciate the "modern hookups, good shower/laundry facilities" and mention they have "beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites." Other positive aspects include "trash pickup service" and fire rings with built-in grills.
Activities for children: Family-friendly programming is available at most area campgrounds. According to a visitor at Benner's Meadow Run, it's a "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities. Tree shaded sites!" Another camper shared their experience: "So much to do for the kids. Clean and well kept."
Staff helpfulness: Camp hosts at several locations provide assistance with setup and ongoing needs. Mirror Lake RV Camping's owners received particular praise: "We really got to witness the owners' kindness when we left for a hiking trip and a sudden windstorm caught our awning and broke one side of it... The owner and his son got right to work fixing it... I've been camping for nearly 40 years and have never witnessed that kind of pro-activeness."
What you should know
Leveling requirements: Many sites throughout the Connellsville area require leveling equipment. At CAMP73ROCKST☆R, one camper described it as a "Safe place to pull over for the night right of interstate" though preparation for varying site conditions is advised. At Pioneer Lakes, a camper reported that "The spot was so unlevel there were 19 inches between my bottom step and the ground."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Benner's Meadow Run operates from mid-April through mid-October. A visitor who camped late in the season noted, "We went to Benner's meadow the end of September. Not many people were there and the seasonal campsites were mostly closed up for the winter."
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility upkeep differs between campgrounds. At Pioneer Lakes, a camper observed "bathrooms were outdated. They had older residential toilets that plugged constantly. The day we left 2 of the 3 in our nearest bathroom were out of order." Conversely, at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, visitors consistently report that "bathrooms are spotless."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access timing: Plan for busy periods at water facilities. Jellystone Park receives high marks from families, with one noting "We visited this campground 3 years ago and had an absolute blast!! We ended with a very private tent site with no amenities but around the corner from a pavilion with an outside washing station and flush toilets."
Book early for holidays: Popular family campgrounds fill quickly during peak times. At Benner's Meadow Run, campers recommend you "Book early for holidays" as the campground can reach capacity during these periods. Another visitor mentioned it's a "Great place to camp at" and noted "First stay at Benner's and had a great weekend. Great campsite, clean grounds and facilities."
Consider cabins for convenience: Several campgrounds offer cabin accommodations for families wanting camping experience without tent setup. Mirror Lake campers report "My family stayed in one of the cabins while friends were in their campers. The cabin was great, very clean and cozy." This provides an alternative for families new to camping or during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Request specific sites when making reservations at The Blue Canoe RV Resort in Connellsville. A recent visitor noted, "Very nice and newer campground. Some river sites were small and very un level but was doable." Another mentioned that "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids."
Campground road conditions: Interior roads at several campgrounds require careful navigation. At Pioneer Lakes RV Park, "The roads are full of potholes going back to the sites." This can be particularly challenging for larger RVs or during wet conditions.
Water access planning: RVers should note varying accessibility to water features. At The Blue Canoe, a camper observed "I don't know if the River was just low, but the ramp for entering/exiting with your kayak stopped before river getting to the river's edge. It was very muddy after the ramp, so it was slick getting to the river."
