Camping sites near Export, Pennsylvania range from primitive tent locations to fully-equipped RV parks across varied terrain with elevation changes between 900-1,500 feet. The region experiences distinct seasons with average summer temperatures in the 80s and winter lows regularly below freezing. Most campgrounds remain accessible from April through October, though some maintain year-round operations with winter amenities limited to basic services.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Bush Recreation Area offers multiple launch areas along Loyalhanna Creek. "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," notes AnnaMarie S.
Hiking nearby trails: Ohiopyle State Park features extensive trail networks with varying difficulty levels. "The Ferncliff Trail loops around the inside of the Yough as it does a near 360 in town. Gentle terrain along the falls and then through moss covered forest," according to one visitor who enjoyed the natural features.
Mountain biking routes: The Great Allegheny Passage connects to multiple campgrounds. Visitors at Dravo's Landing Campground appreciate this access, with one camper noting, "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail. There were a few shelters, nice campsite."
Off-season activities: The area offers winter recreation for campers at year-round facilities. A visitor at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA reported, "We're staying in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. Friendly and cozy spot. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots."
What campers like
Elevated campsite views: Mountain Top Campground provides panoramic vistas from its ridge location. "You are on top of a mountain with great views. The spots are well spaced out and it is family owned. The family is always out making improvements, talking with the campers, and putting on events," explains Corey L.
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds maintain modern restrooms. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, a visitor observed: "All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not. All sites are wooded but some have more separation than others. Our site backed up to the creek but surprisingly, there was not a lot of water flowing in the spring."
Reasonable site spacing: Fox Den Acres Campground offers spacious camping areas, particularly for tent campers. According to Dena L., "Mostly an RV campground, but several tent sites. Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away. Firewood available for purchase."
Quiet weekday options: Laurel Hill State Park Campground provides more secluded experiences on non-peak days. "We were surprised that just a few days before Memorial Day, only a handful of sites were occupied. We've been very impressed by the pristine conditions of many Pennsylvania state parks, but this one had a more rustic feel."
What you should know
Train noise proximity: Campgrounds near the rail lines experience regular train sounds. At The GAP Trail Campground, a camper advised: "Although the campground is close to several large cities, it is very relaxed, wooded, and quiet. But remember, with all this luxury comes an active train too...that's the nature of this trail. Bring those earplugs for a good night's sleep!"
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for RVs. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, one camper reported: "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites so I imagine it was just the time of year we visited."
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, a visitor noted "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon" while other campgrounds report stronger signals.
Campground loop differences: Choosing the right area within larger campgrounds matters. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy. We drove through the other one and it looks so much nicer."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Bush Recreation Area, a visitor mentioned, "Great spots! Our kids were within easy eye and earshot of the playground. We had 30A electric and fresh water (no sewer). Our picnic table was (nearly) brand new composite material and easy to move around."
Swimming options: Crooked Creek Lake offers water recreation for children. A camper commented, "Nice campground near Crooked Creek. Affordable as well. Love the lake, there is even a little beach for the family. Definitely worth a visit."
Activity planning: Organized events vary by season and campground. At Fox Den Acres Campground, a visitor observed, "Wonderful campground. They provide activities almost every evening, making sure everything age range is catered to throughout the week. There's a predictably overpriced store where you can buy since essentials, and a few luxuries."
Site selection for families: Strategic location choices enhance convenience. "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), play ground (basic-not toddler friendly, there's a sand pit that's not covered up at night where they HAD some toddler play stuff)."
Tips from RVers
Water supply considerations: Many campgrounds have limited hookup options. At Fox Den Acres, a reviewer advised: "Campground hosted a gigantic bonfire the night we were there which was a sight! The sites are pretty close together and we couldn't use our fire ring because it ended up being very close to our rig."
Parking configurations: The GAP Trail Campground offers specialized accommodations. "Imagine if a luxury AirBnB and a Hobbit Camp had a baby – this place would be it. The outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not."
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully. One visitor at Laurel Hill State Park explained, "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable."
All-season capabilities: For winter camping near Export, Mountain Top Campground stays open year-round. "They kept the place clean and maintained the gravel roads. Being on the mountaintop, you get the best view around. The park staff are always walking around, checking on things and talking to campers."
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