Best Campgrounds near Dawson, PA

The Dawson, Pennsylvania area encompasses a range of camping options within western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio, and northern West Virginia. Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, located about 40 miles west of Pittsburgh, provides tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations across multiple camping loops. Other notable options include Breakneck Campground near McConnells Mills State Park and Bear Run Campground in Portersville, which offers 300 campsites with amenities for tent and RV camping. The region features both state park campgrounds with established facilities and smaller private campgrounds with varying levels of amenities.

Camping availability in western Pennsylvania follows seasonal patterns, with most campgrounds operating from April through October, though some like Raccoon Creek remain open year-round. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. A visitor noted, "The campground was very quiet at night. Our site was long and level and the electric worked fine." Road access to most established campgrounds is suitable for standard vehicles, though some primitive sites may require higher clearance. Weather conditions can affect camping experiences, with spring rainfall sometimes creating muddy conditions at certain campgrounds. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near larger towns.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the region. Several campgrounds offer sites near lakes or creeks, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. One camper shared, "This is a beautiful campground. Most spaces are shaded and if not on the water, close to the water. We took kayaks - endless places to put into the water including from many sites." Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to surrounding natural areas, with McConnells Mills State Park and Raccoon Creek State Park offering extensive trail networks. Campers frequently mention wildlife sightings, including deer, turkeys, and raccoons. Site privacy varies considerably, with some campgrounds offering well-spaced, wooded sites while others feature more open layouts with less separation between camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Dawson, Pennsylvania (95)

    1. Raccoon Creek State Park Campground

    49 Reviews
    Clinton, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 899-2200

    $18 - $128 / night

    "One tip: each loop does not have its own entrance from a main road. To get to C you drive through or past A and B. Same with E and F. Each loop has its own set of flush toilets and showers."

    "All and All great place to camp, good things; 1) lots of deer, turkeys, racoons, owls etc. 2) close to a farmer's market Jankowski's great place to get fresh food, 3) once you have level camp, all good"

    2. Beaver Creek State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Negley, OH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (330) 385-3091

    $18 - $50 / night

    "Site was fairly clean, but be sure to move the pine tree duff away from the fire pits to be safe. "

    "direct access to the North Country National Scenic Trail and trails through main park"

    3. Tomlinson Run State Park Campground

    19 Reviews
    New Manchester, WV
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (304) 564-3651

    $28 - $40 / night

    "Bathhouse is heated with showers that have a fiberglass tub surround, not concrete.  Nice hiking trails that connect through the campground. "

    "There are trails and fishing so plenty to do. Fairly sparse in April but a lot of people still driving and walking by. Alcohol prohibited"

    4. Breakneck Campground

    16 Reviews
    Portersville, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 368-3233

    $10 - $20 / night

    "We wanted a secluded site and close to Pittsburgh. 

    We arrived around 7pm and there was no check in, we drove around for a while trying to find a spot with a fire ring per some helpful campers."

    "My husband and I camped here on a whim, after our original location got rained out. We picked a nice big lot by the dirt road."

    5. Harts Content Campground

    3 Reviews
    Beaver Falls, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 846-0005

    6. Bear Run Campground

    14 Reviews
    Portersville, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 368-3564

    $30 - $300 / night

    "The nightly RV sites are close to the park entrance and are relatively flat. The campground hosts themed events, game nights and arts& crafts."

    "I always camp near the horses as i like a bit more privacy. The front of the campground is a bit too packed for my liking. They also have a primative area that is quite nice."

    7. Indian Brave Campground

    5 Reviews
    Harmony, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 452-9204

    $30 - $55 / night

    "They have an Olympic sized swimming pool, nature trails, playground, basketball court, recreation hall and walking distance to harmony and all the live music and nightlife that Harmony and Zelienople have"

    "The site was quiet and even though you were close to your neighbors it didn’t feel like it to us!"

    8. Valley View Campground

    1 Review
    Wampum, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 535-4403

    $40 - $105 / night

    9. Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping

    9 Reviews
    Portersville, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 924-2415

    $32 - $60 / night

    "They have a nice heated large pool, hiking trails close to some great places like McConnells mill, Morane state park, Fishing the shenango river."

    "It is close to Moraine State Park."

    10. Getaway Beaver Creek

    1 Review
    Negley, OH
    13 miles
    Website

    $119 - $299 / night

    "If you are looking for a quiet getaway with gorgeous surroundings, this is the definitely place for you."

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Recent Reviews near Dawson, PA

455 Reviews of 95 Dawson Campgrounds



Guide to Dawson

Camping near Dawson, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peacefulness of Tomlinson Run State Park Campground. A reviewer said, "Very quiet park this time of year."
  • Spacious sites: Campers at Bear Run Campground enjoy the roomy sites. One visitor remarked, "Everyone was very nice & the heated pool & campstore are great."
  • Family-friendly activities: Mercer-Grove City KOA offers plenty for kids. A parent shared, "The campground hosts themed events, game nights and arts & crafts."

What you should know:

  • Site selection: When camping at Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, be careful when picking a site. A camper advised, "You have to be careful when picking a site if you have never been here."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Beaver Creek State Park Campground, have fewer amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Not much room to maneuver a trailer into the narrow uneven pads."
  • Noise levels: Campers at Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins noted that it can get loud. One reviewer said, "Super loud PA system throughout the whole park that wakes you up at 8am every morning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for activities: Choose a campground like Bear Run Campground that has a pool and playground. A parent said, "He especially enjoyed the 'rock mining'."
  • Check for pet policies: If you’re bringing pets, many campgrounds, including Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, allow them. One camper noted, "Pets are welcome."
  • Pack for comfort: Bring extra gear for comfort, especially if you're camping at places like Breakneck Campground. A camper shared, "This place is great if you're a beginner or advanced."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites, like Mercer-Grove City KOA. A reviewer mentioned, "Very level and big rig friendly."
  • Use campground directions: When heading to Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, follow the park's directions for easier access. One camper advised, "Be sure to use the park’s directions for an easier drive in."
  • Check for amenities: Make sure your chosen campground has the amenities you need. A visitor at Bear Run Campground said, "The campground is gated. Lots to do at the campground and lots to do in the surrounding area."

Camping near Dawson, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Dawson, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dawson, PA is Raccoon Creek State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 49 reviews.

What parks are near Dawson, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Dawson, PA that allow camping, notably Crooked Creek Lake and Michael J Kirwan Lake.