Tent camping near Fisher, Pennsylvania primarily centers around the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail corridor. The region sits within the Laurel Highlands at elevations ranging from 800-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Fall temperatures can drop below 40°F at night, while summer nights typically remain above 60°F with daytime highs in the mid-80s.
What to do
Access hiking trails: The GAP Trail Campground provides direct access to over 70 miles of hiking trails. "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well," notes one camper at The GAP Trail Campground.
River activities: Multiple campsites offer river access for kayaking, swimming, and fishing. At Dravo's Landing Campground, one visitor mentioned, "We made friends with a few other folks who were stopping at Dravo during their bike trips along the GAP, and everyone appreciated the abundance of picnic tables, fire pits, lean-tos, and the nearby river."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at Laurel Ridge State Park Campground offer opportunities to spot local fauna. "I've hear a barred owl at night both times I camped here," reports one reviewer.
What campers like
Adirondack shelters: Several GAP Trail campgrounds feature covered wooden structures. A camper at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground noted, "This is one of the only free hiker-biker campgrounds along the GAP trail (mile 99.6), and it is laid out similarly to the Dravo Campground, with lean-tos, picnic tables, firepits and lots of spaces for tents."
River proximity: The Youghiogheny River runs alongside many campsites. According to a visitor at Dravo's Landing Campground, "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."
Secluded atmosphere: Many sites offer relative isolation. A camper at Indian Creek Camplands described it as a "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
What you should know
Water availability: Not all campgrounds have reliable drinking water. Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground has a well, but one camper noted, "The well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing."
Train noise disruptions: Several campgrounds along the GAP Trail experience frequent train traffic. A visitor at The GAP Trail Campground advised, "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!"
Food storage concerns: Wildlife interactions are common at tent sites. A camper at Dravo's Landing warned, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom planning: Bathhouse quality varies significantly between sites. A visitor to Laurel Ridge State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathhouse could use a renovation. It felt old and kind of dirty."
Ghost stories: The historic setting provides material for nighttime entertainment. A camper at Dravo's Landing noted, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire."
Campsite selection: Large groups should aim for specific campgrounds with adequate space. One reviewer shared, "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility limitations: Most GAP Trail campgrounds are not accessible by vehicle. A camper at Rhododendron Camping Area noted the difference in facilities, explaining, "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."
Bathroom facilities: When RV camping without hookups, know which locations have usable facilities. One visitor observed, "The bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms plus the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset."
Luxury camping options: For those seeking more amenities than typical tent camping, Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers glamping with, "One yurt with a bed is offered." This cannabis-friendly campground provides a different experience than standard tent sites.
