Seasonal camping opportunities around Derry, Pennsylvania span from mid-April through late October, with most facilities closing after the third weekend in October. The Laurel Highlands region sits at elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet, creating cooler nights than nearby Pittsburgh, with temperature drops of 10-15 degrees common even during summer months. The region's forests consist primarily of maple, oak and hemlock trees.
What to do
Fishing spots with reliable catches: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing offers a stocked fishing pond where kids can experience immediate success. "The lake is great for fishing with plenty of hiking trails. There's plenty to do in surrounding areas from Ft Ligonier to the shops in the town," notes a visitor to Keystone State Park Campground.
Hiking access to Great Allegheny Passage: The 150-mile rail trail connecting Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland runs near several area campgrounds. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," reports a camper staying at Ohiopyle State Park.
Bouldering and rock climbing: Some local parks offer beginner-friendly climbing opportunities. "This was a very fun place! There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! And even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," shares a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
What campers like
Creek access for children: Many campgrounds feature small streams perfect for cooling off. "Close by is Ligonier, Idlewild, and St. Vincent (where the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp takes place). Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek which the kids play in and can float down," notes a camper at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Dog-friendly accommodations: Multiple campgrounds welcome pets, though rules vary. "We stayed at site 43 in the Hillside Loop because we brought our 2 large dogs. Site was very private and relatively flat," reports a camper at Keystone State Park Campground. Another camper notes, "The campground is pet friendly, even for our bully breed, whom is a gentle giant."
Autumn camping weather: Fall provides comfortable camping temperatures and fewer crowds. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded," observes a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park.
What you should know
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites throughout the Laurel Highlands require adjustment. "Okay campground. We met nice people staying there. However, the sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," cautions a camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Variable campground crowding: Weekday camping offers significantly more solitude. "Park and campground are very small and almost desolate during the week. Park super small, some great sites hidden among some junk," shares a visitor to Kooser State Park Campground.
Highway noise concerns: Several campgrounds sit near major roads. "The campground is situated right off of the main road so the road noise can be an issue if it bothers you. We personally, didn't sleep well because of the road noise," reports a tent camper at Donegal Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: For hot summer days, some private campgrounds offer swimming pools. "We stayed in one of the cabins while friends were in their campers. The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store. We had 8 kids and 8 adults who all had a blast," notes a visitor to Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Playground accessibility: Consider proximity to play areas when booking sites. "We rented space 16 late August 2020 and our friends (and their kids) rented #17 on the inner circle, right next to us with the playground right behind us. Great spots! Our kids were within easy eye and earshot of the playground," shares a camper at Bush Recreation Area.
Pet loop noise levels: Family groups with pets might create more noise. "Every week they organize different themes for bingo, and other games. They also have Sunday pancake days," notes a visitor to Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, while another camper observes, "Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy."
Tips from RVers
Power hookup configuration: Electrical connections may require extensions at some parks. "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 an RVer at Laurel Hill State Park.
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully to avoid tight spaces. "We stayed at site 15 and it was perfect. It fit our 34ft toy hauler without any issues. The park is beautiful and very well maintained," reports a camper about Kooser State Park. Another visitor to Fox Den Acres Campground recommends, "This is a large campground with playgrounds, well maintained pool and grounds. Some sites are a bit close, the pull through sites are very ample. Gravel roads and level sites."
Dumping station seasonal closures: Check availability before arrival. "As of 5/25/19 the dump station is closed & undergoing construction," notes a camper at Bush Recreation Area, while others mention limited access during shoulder seasons at several of the best places to camp near Derry, Pennsylvania.
