RV camping near Elizabeth, Pennsylvania offers diverse terrain across the Allegheny Plateau region with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with average summer temperatures in the mid-80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds in the region sit near smaller waterways like the Youghiogheny River, creating opportunities for water recreation alongside traditional camping activities.
What to do
Fishing access: Water activities are readily available at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing, where visitors can fish directly from lakefront sites. "We were lucky enough to get a full-hookup site right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, everything you want on a spring trip," notes one camper. The campground's small creek also provides entertainment for younger campers, as another reviewer shares: "Creek was close and neighbors were great."
Recreational facilities: At Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, families find extensive water attractions. "Tons of stuff to do here... Inflatable slides and such in the lake, hiking trials, playgrounds, all sorts of stuff," writes one visitor. However, some campers note additional costs for these amenities: "Lake Costs Extra... Not Worth The Cost... Uncharge for everything."
Trail access: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail runs directly through some campgrounds, making them ideal for cyclists. "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground... If you are an RVer and seeking a place to park and ride along this trail, this is a perfect place to have the best of both worlds," reports one trail enthusiast.
What campers like
Helpful staff: Campers consistently mention exceptional service at family-owned operations like Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing. One reviewer described their experience after a windstorm damaged their awning: "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."
Community atmosphere: Several rv parks near Elizabeth, Pennsylvania foster social environments. At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, one camper noted, "Family oriented and not looking for large/loud groups... Saturday night was a fun DJ. The facilities are very clean." The campground maintains scheduled activities throughout the season.
Convenient laundry facilities: For long-term campers, Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA offers exceptional laundry amenities. "Laundry facilities are the best we have encountered. Big machines and dryers making life easier and less time spent doing laundry," writes one reviewer. This is particularly valuable for travelers making extended stays.
What you should know
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campgrounds near Elizabeth feature hilly terrain that creates challenging parking situations. At Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, campers report: "A dozen or so of the sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable." Another notes, "Very steep narrow roads to access campground and sites."
Off-season considerations: While several campgrounds operate year-round, amenities may be limited in colder months. The pool facilities typically close between October and April, but most maintain basic services. One winter visitor observed, "They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots and leaving lots of information at the office."
Cell service limitations: Many campers report spotty connectivity throughout the region. One campground specifically notes "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier." WiFi availability varies, with one extended-stay camper reporting: "Wifi in extended parking doesn't work well."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly campgrounds often provide structured entertainment. The Blue Canoe RV Resort offers "multiple pools, playsets, cabins and river sites," making it ideal for families with children of different ages. However, timing matters as "it was noisy and loud throughout our whole stay."
Budget considerations: Many attractions at campgrounds near Elizabeth charge additional fees beyond site costs. "Austin lake offers plenty of fun with the lake. Kayaking, inflatables, beach, but almost anything you want to do will cost you an additional charge. Need to use the bathhouse? Better take quarters... because the showers are coin operated," warns one visitor.
Site selection: For families with young children, site location within the campground matters. One experienced camper advises: "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)... If you DONT have kids or have a napper in the family, expect constant noise until quiet time."
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Several rv parks Elizabeth, Pennsylvania have difficult access roads. "Take your time and all will be just fine. Our rig is 39' & 16K. 4wd low helps, not cause you need 4wd just for the lower gears," advises one driver. Another recommends: "Follow the signs to the campground NOT the GPS in order to avoid some narrow and sharp turn roads."
Site selection for larger rigs: Campers with big motorhomes should research specific sites. "Very conveniently located off the interstate... Spot width was a little narrow where we stayed (on the hill), but perfect for a quick overnight stay," notes one RVer about Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA. At other campgrounds, visitors recommend calling ahead to inspect sites: "Owners are great, let us in weekend before to look at campground being our first time there. Found a couple spots our camper would fit in."
