Cabin camping near Fort Hill, Pennsylvania provides access to the Laurel Highlands region with elevations reaching nearly 3,000 feet. The area experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs typically in the 70s-80s°F and nighttime temperatures dropping significantly. The wooded campsites throughout the region feature mixed hardwood forests with hemlock, maple, and oak trees creating natural buffers between sites.
What to do
Hiking at Ohiopyle State Park: Explore the Ferncliff Trail that loops around the Youghiogheny River with gentle terrain along the falls and through moss-covered forest. "The trails to the namesake falls are beautiful and very family-friendly, with lots of helpful signage. However, the parking lots and trailheads were PACKED on the weekend, so if you're a day tripper, get there early!" reports a camper at Swallow Falls State Park Campground.
Water recreation at Yough Lake: Enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating at Youghiogheny River Lake. "The swimming area is lovely as is the playground. This is one place that we would definitely go back to visit the incredible friends that we made. A visit to Ohiopyle state park is a MUST to see the natural water slide, waterfalls and take some fantastic hikes," notes a visitor at Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run.
Star gazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer designated star viewing areas away from light pollution. "They have a star gazing platform" mentions a camper from Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, though they note it "leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
What campers like
Cabin diversity: Different cabin styles offer unique experiences beyond standard accommodations. "We stayed in the covered wagon, which was pretty cool. The covered wagon sites (there are 2) are isolated in their own clearing within the trees next to the lake," shares a visitor at Hickory Hollow Campground.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting outside peak summer months provides a different experience. "Even on Memorial Day weekend it was very peaceful. Can't say enough on how friendly and helpful the staff are. Other campers are exceptionally friendly. Very clean and well maintained campground," notes a camper at Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run.
Proximity to attractions: The central location allows easy day trips to multiple destinations. "This is located about an hour away from my home, so we plan on making this our go-to for quick camping getaways throughout the year," says a Hickory Hollow Campground visitor, highlighting the convenience for both short and extended stays.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have sloping terrain. "The sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," warns a visitor at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. "Note that there is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience," explains a New Germany State Park camper.
Seasonal water levels: Lake activities may be affected by water conditions. "Unfortunately the lake was dried up- which the folx at the reservations site warned us about - so the campground was pretty meh without that," reports a Yough Lake Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities for kids: Multiple parks offer swimming and water recreation. "The swim area had a small but convenient off-leash dog area was also a wonderful amenity," says a Hickory Hollow Campground visitor, noting the family-friendly amenities.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with play areas for children. "For kids they have a small jungle gym and critter center. Overall a very nice family camping area," shares a New Germany State Park Campground visitor.
Evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer scheduled activities. "Saturday night was a fun DJ. The facilities are very clean," mentions a Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground guest, highlighting the organized social opportunities available at certain locations.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: Position your RV strategically for utilities access. "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," advises a Laurel Hill State Park camper.
Road condition alerts: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "Tub Run Road is a rough (but pretty) ride to the campground. Once you hit the property, everything is well-maintained. Roads are easy to navigate and equipment all works well," notes a visitor at Yough Lake Campground.
Campground accessibility: Not all local campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "We drove through the two other, non-pet-friendly loops, which were also beautiful. Sites were spacious and private, just like in our loop, but with the addition of tall pines. The roads were very narrow, with a decent incline, so not big-rig friendly," warns a New Germany State Park camper.
