Tent camping near Farmington, Pennsylvania clusters around the Laurel Highlands region where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,800 feet. The area sees significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Primitive campsites dominate the landscape, particularly near the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail corridor connecting Pittsburgh to Cumberland.
What to do
**Trail exploration: Easily access multiple trail systems connected to camping areas. At Big Run State Park Campground, campers report that "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish" making it ideal for nature observation.
**Water activities: Kayaking on nearby Savage River Reservoir provides a calm water alternative. One visitor to Big Run State Park noted, "It is close to the Savage River reservoir, which is great for kayaking."
**Evening programs: Join special events at select campgrounds. At Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm, campers can participate in "Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending" for a unique Friday night activity.
**Wildlife watching: Many campsites offer opportunities for animal spotting, particularly at dusk. While primitive camping tends to attract more wildlife, the presence of streams enhances viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Numerous campers appreciate the spacing at certain campgrounds. At Big Run State Park, one reviewer commented that "There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful," while another mentioned that the sites are "more spread out, wooded, and some of them are located right along the stream."
Stream access: Many tent campers specifically seek sites adjacent to moving water. One Maple Festival Park visitor appreciated the proximity to water, saying "I was traveling from Iowa to Delfest in Cumberland MD. When I decided to find a campground I used the Dyrt app and found this place... Very peaceful place."
Unique camping locations: Some sites offer unconventional tent placement options. At Maple Festival Park, a reviewer explained, "Set your tent up on the lawn, up on the stage, or under the long lean-to, if you want to get out of the weather. It's all up for grabs for the night."
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate pets, allowing campers to bring their dogs along for outdoor adventures.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds offer only basic amenities. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "The bathrooms are the standard forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough, but the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable."
Train noise: Several campgrounds near the GAP Trail experience train disruptions. A Roundbottom visitor advised: "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up -- so bring good earplugs!"
Water availability: Water sources vary significantly between campgrounds. At many locations, campers must either filter water from streams or bring their own supply.
Weather considerations: The region experiences substantial seasonal variation. Fall camping requires warmer gear as temperatures drop significantly at night.
Insect preparation: Bug protection is essential in summer months. One Big Run State Park visitor reported, "it was great after sleeping in the car for a few nights... but the mosquitos sucked."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with natural play features: Streams provide built-in entertainment. At Big Run State Park, a family camper reported: "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water."
Pack extra clothing: The region's weather can change quickly, particularly in spring and fall when temperature swings of 30+ degrees can occur between day and night.
Select campgrounds with basic facilities: While many sites are primitive, some offer more amenities. As one visitor to Big Run noted: "Pit toilets were pretty clean... Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park."
Consider noise factors: Train disturbances can disrupt children's sleep at GAP Trail campgrounds. Choose sites further from tracks if traveling with light sleepers.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds have limited capacity for larger vehicles. At Indian Creek Camplands Inc, a reviewer noted: "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Alternative lodging options: Several campgrounds offer structures for those not wanting to tent camp. At Rhododendron Camping Area, visitors appreciate that "There was a fire place and a picnic table and an area to park your car. It was walking distance to the beautiful overlook and a great price for what you get."
Leveling challenges: Many sites require additional equipment for comfortable setup. Bring leveling blocks as terrain is often uneven throughout the region.
