Prince Gallitzin State Park sits atop the Allegheny Plateau at an elevation of 1,600 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding areas. The region's glamping options feature distinct seasonal patterns, with mid-June through August averaging daytime temperatures of 75-85°F, ideal for water activities. Fall glamping creates opportunities for colorful foliage viewing, with September and October highs in the 60s dropping to the 40s overnight.
What to do
Kayaking on Raystown Lake: The 8,300-acre Raystown Lake provides extensive paddling routes with protected coves for beginners. Seven Points visitors mention the diverse water experiences: "The lake is so clean and refreshing and we have such beautiful views from our camp site. We went down to the swim beach and our kiddo made sand castles and swam in the clear water," notes Jennifer D.
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: The trail system begins just above the upper camp loops at Raystown Lake and offers a full day of fast-flowing singletrack riding. As Travis S. notes about Susquehannock Campground: "We stayed here as a last resort site for a spur of the moment camping trip. Overall we had a blast! The campsites sit on slight inclines but aren't overbearing. They provided shaded area and are accessible to the shoreline!"
Hiking at Black Moshannon: The park offers several miles of hiking trails through diverse wetland ecosystems. One reviewer at Black Moshannon State Park shared: "This campground is so beautiful with plenty to do for everyone, tons of hiking along the whole park. The park also runs a ton of classes for different things like fly fishing, hiking, etc."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many glamping sites in Dysart offer direct lake views. At Lake Raystown Resort, campers appreciate the water proximity: "Absolutely blown away by this campsite. A bit wary going in because I saw some negative reviews about the waterfront sites but site 79 was AMAZING. Perfect views of the lake and very spaced out," writes Tori.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower facilities maintain high standards across most glamping locations. At Ridge Top Retreat, the premium glamping facilities include private bathrooms in their safari tents. According to a reviewer from nearby Prince Gallitzin: "All sites are paved as are the roads. Bathrooms are fairly modern and clean. We take our dog so there is a restriction on where you can camp."
Variety of accommodation options: Glamping in Dysart offers diverse lodging styles from safari tents to yurts. As one Lake Raystown visitor noted: "There's a few different areas of the campground. Definitely recommend bringing a boat. Large marina, prepared food is expensive though. Tackle shop and craft days, playground, overall great place."
What you should know
Booking requirements: Most upscale glamping sites require reservations months in advance, particularly for summer weekends and holiday periods. At Yellow Creek State Park, where yurt options are available, one camper mentioned: "We stayed in one of the yurts, and it was perfect for the group of 6 I went with. It dumped rain the first night we were there and the yurt kept us perfectly comfortable and dry."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant temperature variations, particularly in spring and fall. Glamping structures with climate control systems become important during these shoulder seasons. A camper at Prince Gallitzin noted: "We stayed in the pet friendly loops of the park. As a rule we always try to stay in parks if possible. Really like the layout here, and the k9s love it."
Water access limitations: Not all glamping sites with "waterfront" labels provide equal access to the water. At Susquehannock Campground, a reviewer advised: "Most of the campsites are on a slight slope but they're still bearable. Also a lot of them are waterfront sites which is convenient for swimming in the summer!"
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Raystown Lake offers sandy beaches specifically designed for family swimming. According to Jennifer from Seven Points: "The lake is so clean and refreshing and we have such beautiful views from our camp site. We went down to the swim beach and our kiddo made sand castles and swam in the clear water."
Educational opportunities: Many glamping locations organize ranger-led programs and nature workshops. Nicole F. from Crooked Run Campground shared: "We used the group tent sites for our Girl Scout weekend. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls. We will definitely go back."
Family-friendly amenities: Look for glamping options with playgrounds and dedicated children's activities. Jackie W. notes that Crooked Run is a "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have varying degrees of level sites and access challenges. Tim J. from Seven Points advises: "We looked at this campground in early August, but I wasn't too sure about the elevation. I booked our site #6 in Ridge Camp. From the time we arrived and filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station, I knew we were in for a great weekend."
Utility variations: Not all glamping sites offer the same hookups, and some may have limited amperage. Gary P. from Trough Creek State Park Campground reported: "Nice small park with gravel drives/roads and plenty of room for big rigs. All sites level with partial shade. Open, but with plenty of space between sites."
Seasonal considerations: Some luxury glamping options close during winter months. As Tim J. noted about Seven Points: "The dump station, as noted above had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one. We can't wait to go back to Ridge again next month."
