Glamping options near Hilliards, Pennsylvania range from rustic to luxurious experiences across several county parks and private campgrounds. The region sits within the Allegheny Plateau with elevations between 1,200-1,500 feet, creating mild summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Winter camping opportunities remain available at select locations like Clear Creek State Park, where temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Water recreation at Two Mile Run County Park: This underrated park features a sandy beach area for swimming and boat rentals for exploring the 144-acre lake. Two Mile Run County Park offers affordability and privacy with waterfront options. "Couple beautiful walk in tent sites right on the water. Plenty of nice hiking trails. Great beach for kids," notes Joanie B.
Hiking at McConnells Mill: Located minutes from Breakneck Campground, these trails offer moderate to challenging terrain through scenic gorges. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," shares Britt B.
Explore Oil Creek history: The birthplace of America's oil industry offers historical sites with original equipment demonstrations. "It is once a year that they have oil machinery demonstrations. Very interesting. You can also take a train ride through the park," mentions Denise P. from Oil Creek Family Campground.
What campers like
Privacy options: Secluded sites provide a more natural glamping experience away from crowded areas. "We chose one of two primitive sites next to a small creek. Apart from the campers above us on top of the hill, we were a few hundred feet from the other primitive sites. Despite being just a minutes walk from our truck, we felt incredibly secluded," explains Ben from Breakneck Campground.
Clean facilities: Many glamping sites maintain exceptionally clean restrooms and shower facilities beyond typical campground standards. "The bathrooms could use some updating but they were adequate," notes Dave B. about Jamestown Campground. "Great campground with a great staff. This was the first campground we ever RV'ed in and we've returned now for three years," shares Chris K.
Year-round options: Some locations offer cold-weather glamping experiences with heated accommodations. "We have stayed at the park for Christmas Eve the past two years. Had the Adirondack shelters to ourselves each year... Very quiet and no light pollution from a town or city, providing great moonlit nights," writes Travis S.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all "waterfront" or premium sites deliver as advertised. "We booked a waterfront site and were disappointed to learn that was not actually the case. There was a little bit of a swampy area behind us but the lake was further away," cautions Casey L. about Jamestown Campground.
Varied enforcement of rules: Campgrounds differ in how strictly they enforce quiet hours and alcohol policies. "No one addressed the situation. So if you like to hang out and party it up this is a great place. If your looking for a family oriented camping experience maybe not so much," writes Joanne R. regarding weekend noise levels.
Seasonal limitations: Many glamping facilities operate on reduced schedules during shoulder seasons. "The tent camping is either grassy, flat sites or on an elevated timber platform overlooking a gorge. They also offer walk-in tent sites down by the creek which are beautiful," explains Britt B. about seasonal site options.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for glamping sites with dedicated children's activities and facilities. "Beautiful facilities. Clean bathrooms. Lots of activities. Great play area for the kids!" recommends Nicole W. about Mercer-Grove City KOA.
Pet considerations: Not all family-friendly sites accommodate pets equally. "I didn't like that pets are not allowed in the non-pet area as that was where the playground and swimming beach was. Made it difficult to swim and play as a family since you can't leave dogs alone at the campsite," advises Jeani B.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide nature programs specifically for children. "This is also a great place to go year-round for kids interested in learning about nature. There is a nature museum. Seek out Ranger Susanne—she is a really great teacher!" suggests Laura C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Some sites require longer-than-standard hoses and cords due to utility placement. "Our site had a wash run right through it," mentions Dave B. about drainage issues after storms at Jamestown Campground. "We ended up having to run 60ft of water hose and 50ft of cable in order to get a connection (which required a trip to Walmart)," cautions Ember M. about Kalyumet Campground.
Access routes: GPS directions may lead RVers through unsuitable roads for large vehicles. "We use both the RV Garmin 890 & RV Trip Wizard and both had us doing some crazy side roads to get into the KOA. Be sure to use the park's directions for an easier drive in," advises Jen O.
Site leveling: Many glamping sites in this hilly region require leveling equipment. "The site was not level, but we were able to get the tent trailer level without too much effort," shares Leah L. about Jamestown Campground. "Its a nice place, great creek and woods. Most of the spots will require leveling blocks," adds Isaac R. about Clear Creek State Park Campground.
