Tent campsites near Creighton, Pennsylvania cluster primarily along the GAP Trail's forested corridor, with select sites accessible only by bicycle, foot, or boat. The region experiences humid summer conditions with temperatures averaging 75-85°F June through August, while spring and fall campers encounter cooler 50-65°F temperatures. Sites typically open April through October, with most primitive campgrounds requiring careful water planning due to limited potable sources.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forests surrounding Laurel Ridge State Park Campground offer excellent birding, with campers frequently spotting barred owls. "This is a beautiful park with several dramatic overlooks out over valleys to the east. I've heard a barred owl at night both times I camped here," notes Brian S.
Historic exploration: Visit the cemetery near Dravo's Landing Campground for a glimpse into local history. One camper mentioned, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire." The cemetery contains markers dating back to the early railroad era.
River recreation: Access the Youghiogheny River directly from multiple campgrounds for swimming and water activities. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," according to a regular visitor.
What campers like
Adirondack shelters: Multiple camping areas feature these practical structures for protection during inclement weather. At Round Bottom Camping Area, one camper appreciated that "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."
Group camping capabilities: Larger traveling parties find ample space at certain sites. One camper noted about Dravo's Landing, "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."
Campfire provisions: Some campgrounds maintain firewood supplies for visitors. A camper at Round Bottom Camping Area observed, "The local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railroad tracks parallel most GAP Trail campsites, creating significant overnight noise. A camper at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground warns, "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!"
Water treatment requirements: Many campgrounds have unreliable water sources. At Round Bottom, "The water was discolored. It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking." Pack filtration equipment for most tent sites.
Food storage precautions: Wildlife actively investigates unsecured provisions. One Dravo's Landing camper advised, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Tips for camping with families
Trail-to-town access: Some campgrounds offer convenient walking routes to nearby amenities. At The GAP Trail Campground, "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well."
Accessible site options: Certain campgrounds have wheelchair-friendly features. At Danner Primitive Campground, "The first 2 sites had wheelchair friendly picnic tables," though access requires investigation as the site remains primitive.
Weekday camping advantages: Schedule family trips mid-week when possible. "Bicycle traffic was fairly light during the week, so not only did you have the GAP Trail mostly to oneself, the camping areas were either sparsely filled or empty," notes one camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Traditional RV camping near Creighton is scarce along the GAP Trail. While some campgrounds technically allow RVs, access issues make most sites tent-only in practice. Sites with RV capabilities typically offer minimal hookups and smaller pad sizes.
Mountain View alternative: For RVers seeking established sites with electric hookups, Mountain View Camps offers options within reasonable driving distance of GAP Trail access points. A visitor notes it's a "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots."
