RV sites near Dunbar, Pennsylvania are situated in the Laurel Highlands region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, creating varied terrain for camping experiences. The area receives approximately 45 inches of annual precipitation, making spring and fall camping seasons particularly lush. Most campgrounds in the region are open from April through October, with limited year-round options available for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At The Blue Canoe RV Resort, the Youghiogheny River offers direct water entry, though campers note conditions can vary. "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," one visitor reports.
Star gazing opportunities: Benner's Meadow Run features a designated star gazing platform for night sky viewing, though recent visitors mention it "leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair." The darker skies in this rural area provide good conditions for astronomy enthusiasts despite facility limitations.
Seasonal water activities: Multiple pools serve the Dunbar area campgrounds during summer months. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run, "4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids & the original 2 big water slides in woods" provide water recreation options between May and September.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors to Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing consistently mention cleanliness as a standout feature. "The cabin was great, very clean and cozy. The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store," notes one reviewer who stayed with family.
Waterfront sites: Several campgrounds offer creek or river sites with direct water access. "We were lucky enough to get a full-hookup site right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, everything you want on a spring trip," shares a Mirror Lake visitor who appreciated the water proximity.
Game amenities: Multiple RV parks near Dunbar offer recreational activities beyond natural features. Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground provides "a game room, pool, mini golf, a full camp store, firewood, etc." according to campers who appreciate the structured recreation options.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Laurel Highlands require leveling equipment due to sloped terrain. One camper at Benner's Meadow Run notes: "The site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire."
Road conditions: Gravel roads predominate at many campgrounds, affecting activities and vehicle access. "Roads are all gravel so no bikes or scooters for kids," reports a visitor to Benner's Meadow Run, highlighting a practical limitation for family activities.
Staff interaction varies: Management approaches differ significantly between campgrounds. At Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort, visitors report "wonderful hosts, well maintained, large sites, close to the highway but no road noise," while other area campgrounds receive mixed staff reviews.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Jellystone Park offers extensive children's programming with scheduled events. "Kids had a blast, plenty of activities, water park, outstanding camp store. Can't say enough about this place," reports a visitor, emphasizing the value of organized recreation for family trips.
Creek access opportunities: Some campgrounds feature shallow creek areas ideal for children. At Pioneer Lakes RV Park, families mention "stocked ponds, bathhouses very close to all sites. Laurel hill cricks/lake are 2 miles up the mountain!" providing multiple water play options.
Playground assessment: Quality of play equipment varies significantly between facilities. One visitor warns about Pioneer Lakes: "The playground area is unsafe. The wood on the playsets are falling apart and splintering. I had to pull a lot of splinters out of my child's hands and feet."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal sites availability: Longer-term RV sites near Dunbar provide different experiences than transient spaces. At Double G Campground, visitors note it's a "decent size RV park with mostly seasonal and full time residents. They are still happy to have short term campers. Nice full hook up sites and cable TV."
Pool facilities: Swimming amenities differ significantly between parks, with some offering basic pools and others extensive water features. One Pine Cove Beach Club visitor specifically praised the "giant pool opened in the summer" as a standout feature.
Check-in procedures: Arrival processes vary by campground. At Mirror Lake, staff go beyond standard protocols: "The owner and his son got right to work fixing it: One got up on the roof and the other worked from the bottom to set it right and wire the broken arm to the side of the trailer so we could drive home."
