The Laurel Highlands region surrounding Derry, Pennsylvania sits at elevations between 1,200 and 3,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing with annual snowfall averaging 60 inches, while summer highs typically reach the mid-80s. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited facilities available during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing provides stocked ponds for anglers without requiring licenses. "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 playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc," notes one visitor about Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Kayaking access: Bush Recreation Area offers direct access to Loyalhanna Creek with boat launch facilities accommodating two vessels simultaneously. A camper reports, "This is a nice, quiet small campground with a small lake. Our grandchildren loved it. The boat launch is a nice size to fit 2 boats at a time. The only problem is the beach is not that great. However we stayed out in the boat on the lake most of the time. It's a great place to fish and swim and just relax."
Trail connections: Several campgrounds connect to regional trail systems. "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground. The seasonal RVers and weekend warriors have long claimed their sites, but for through riders on the trail there is a special place to camp, close to the west-bound entrance," notes a cyclist who stayed at The Blue Canoe RV Resort.
What campers like
Privacy in wooded sites: For tent campers seeking seclusion, Quemahoning Family Recreation Area offers secluded spots. "Good private tent sites in the woods. RV sites too," mentions one visitor to Quemahoning Family Recreation Area, which provides options for various camping styles.
Family amenities: Most rv parks near Derry maintain kid-friendly facilities. "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform. Kids had a great time and lots of activities for them to do!" shares a visitor about Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
Scenic waterfront locations: Several campgrounds feature lakeside sites. "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids. New pool, but not open when we stayed. Staff make multiple rounds, picks up your trash and delivers your purchased firewood," writes a camper who visited Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
What you should know
Limited shower facilities: Some state park campgrounds maintain minimal shower facilities. At Quemahoning, "The campground has a bathroom with showers (2 for men, 2 for women). The result is there are sometimes lines waiting for a shower to be available."
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "Nice campground, clean and plenty of activities for the kids. The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise. This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long," reports a camper about Friendship Village Campground & RV Park.
Seasonal limitations: Many Derry area campgrounds close entirely during winter months. "Open 5/1/2020 - 10/18/2020" is typical for The Blue Canoe RV Resort, and similar schedules apply to most private campgrounds in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Most family-oriented campgrounds offer swimming pools with varying schedules. "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 playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc." shares a visitor about Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Playground access: Multiple play areas cater to different age groups. "Very fun place for all ages. One of the best campgrounds I have stayed at so far...there is 3 play grounds all different and all well kept," notes a camper at Friendship Village Campground & RV Park.
Organized activities: Weekend events keep children engaged. "Went camping here for the first time this weekend. Although it was the off season there was still tons to do. The kids played mini golf, jumped on the pillow, played on multiple playgrounds, enjoyed ice cream and went fishing," reports a family who visited Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require significant leveling. At Kooser State Park Campground, "many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level. The campground is close to many places in the Laurel Highlands which makes it convenient."
Electric service options: Service amperage varies considerably at Kooser State Park Campground. "Stayed in one of 4 full hookup sites. My complaints...WAY too close to the neighbors and VERY little shade. It's a small campground though. Would probably stay at again. There is road noise, which really didn't bother me."
Site selection recommendations: For optimal RV positioning, certain sites offer advantages. "We stayed at site number 41 for the weekend and have no complaints at all. It's a little more of a tight packed area versus the rest of the campground but it was in good vicinity to everything," shares a camper from Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
