Glamping and upscale camping options near Eighty Four, Pennsylvania complement traditional tent and RV sites in this part of southwestern Pennsylvania. The area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the Allegheny Plateau region, experiencing four distinct seasons with humid summers and moderately cold winters. Sites throughout the region offer varying levels of privacy, with some parks featuring sites spaced well apart on hillsides that provide natural buffers between campers.
What to Do
Hiking on maintained trails: At Coopers Rock State Forest, multiple well-maintained hiking paths accommodate different skill levels. "The trails are well maintained, but be warned that the overlook is crowded," notes Danielle S., who stayed at site #10 on the hill. Trails throughout the forest feature moderate elevation changes ideal for day hikes.
Water activities beyond swimming: Many campgrounds feature fishing ponds where catching is practically guaranteed. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, "You can see things jump so I don't doubt there's fish and it's really pretty in the backdrop," observed one visitor who noted the lake offers non-motorized boat options for those looking to get on the water.
Biking on rail trails: The Great Allegheny Passage trail runs directly through several campgrounds in the region. "We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," shared a visitor at Ohiopyle State Park who found the trail conveniently accessible for both day trips and longer rides.
What Campers Like
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking more solitude, Fox Den Acres Campground offers a peaceful environment during non-peak times. "Although the campground is close to several large cities, it is very relaxed, wooded, and quiet," reports a reviewer named Harley, adding that the park operator was "very pleasant as he passed by our site several times doing maintenance work."
Private tent sites: Tomlinson Run State Park features tent sites set apart from the main camping areas. "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road/cul-de-sac," explains Dusty R., though he noted "there is no wash tub/sink to wash your dishes which made clean up a little more of a chore."
Wildlife encounters: The rural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Coopers Rock State Forest, one camper reported: "A Kildeer must've had a nest nearby & protested about something many times during the night," showing the close connection to nature despite accessibility to nearby urban areas.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping options around Eighty Four operate seasonally. At Keystone State Park, the season runs "1st Friday April to 3rd Sunday October," requiring advance planning for peak season visits when sites fill quickly.
Limited groceries: Several reviewers mention the need to shop for supplies before arriving. "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close," advises Robert C., who stays about two hours from the area but returns regularly.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds in the hilly terrain feature sloped sites that may present challenges. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, one visitor noted, "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped," though they heard improvements were planned.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run offers extensive facilities for children. "We ended with a very private tent site with no amenities but around the corner from a pavilion with an outside washing station and flush toilets," describes Tina L., who added that their four-day stay included "store, restaurant, pools, slides, mini golf, picnic basket wagon rides, yogi bear fire truck rides, and snowless snow tubing."
Site selection for privacy: When glamping or camping with children, site location matters significantly. "If you HAVE KIDS young enough to have to keep an eye on, the kabins and spots facing the pillow ARE PRIME (kids wait for it to blow up every morning)," advises a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA visitor, noting proximity to activities creates both convenience and noise.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas, though facilities vary. Fox Den Acres offers "a swimming pool, fishing pond, and boating pond," according to Heather H., who appreciated that "they provide activities almost every evening, making sure every age range is catered to throughout the week."
Tips from RVers
Utilities and hookups: For luxury glamping experiences with your own RV, Fox Den Acres Campground offers full-service options. "The pull through sites are very ample. Gravel roads and level sites. Lots of grass areas for play and walking," notes a reviewer who added that mid-week stays were quieter than weekends.
Spacing between sites: Site privacy varies significantly between campgrounds and specific site numbers. At Keystone State Park, a reviewer pointed out that "the lakeside [campground] is a glorified trailer park and is packed during the summer with no privacy," while "the hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods. There are some very secluded sites."
Dump station access: Many glamping sites offer partial hookups but require using central dump facilities. "Dump station - 2 way and potable water on the other side of it. The only place to drop your trash too," notes a Tomlinson Run State Park visitor, providing practical information for RV glampers planning their stay.
