Camping areas near Gray, Pennsylvania range from state parks to family recreation areas, all situated in the Laurel Highlands region at elevations between 1,500-3,000 feet. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-April through October, with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The area features a mix of wooded sites and lakeside camping options across varied terrain.
What to do
Explore local trails: Ohiopyle State Park offers numerous hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "We were hoping to do some hiking in the morning but got rained out. However the trails looked nice and we hope to be back soon," notes Laura from Laurel Hill State Park.
Fish at Quemahoning Reservoir: Electric-powered boats are permitted at this recreation area. "Great place for fishing kayaking. Very family oriented," explains Kyle K. about Quemahoning Family Recreation Area.
Visit ski resorts nearby: Several campgrounds are located near Seven Springs and Hidden Valley resorts. "This was a very fun place! There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! And even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," writes Jill R. about Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Enjoy water activities: Multiple parks offer swimming, boating, and water recreation. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk. Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," shares Erik E.
What campers like
Peaceful woodland settings: Many campsites feature wooded privacy. "The tent-only sites are in a wooded section providing more privacy and seclusion than the RV spots," mentions a camper at Kooser State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower amenities. "Awesome clean park and easy to get to from Pittsburgh. The campsite and bathrooms were clean when we arrived and when we left," reports Erik E.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer well-designed layouts. "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads. The lake and farm country provided a welcoming and relaxing setting," shares Brandy Q. about Hickory Hollow Campground.
Variety of camping options: From tent sites to cabins, the region accommodates different preferences. "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," notes Casey L.
What you should know
Site levelness varies: Many campsites require adjustments for comfortable setup. "The only thing I can say about this campground that made me not give it 5 stars is, the sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," reports Kathy L.
Road noise at some locations: Proximity to highways affects quietness. "There is road noise, which really didn't bother me. I liked the good cell coverage since my oldest kid was at home," mentions Olivia L.
Limited services in rural areas: Plan ahead for supplies and groceries. "Not a lot of restaurants or stores nearby, so keep that in mind if you'll be there awhile," advises Becky C. about Pioneer Park Campground.
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. "We stayed for 1 night. We chose site 102 because it looked decent in the picture and seemed a little apart and more private than other areas. Unfortunately, it was not great for tent camping as there wasn't really a spot to set up our 4-person tent," shares Laura.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground amenities: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. "The campground is small but it is quiet and clean. Route 31 is nearby but it wasn't all that noticeable. There was a nice playground area for kids and some nice overflow tent sites nearby," notes Kevin E.
Consider cabin options: Many parks offer alternative accommodations. "We stayed in one of 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," describes Jessica D. about Hickory Hollow.
Check for pet-friendly loops: Different sections have different rules. "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," explains a reviewer at Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park.
Seek out swimming areas: Lakes with designated beaches provide family recreation. "The park has great amenities just a short walk from all sites. A beautiful walk through the park leads you to the Kooser Lake, great for fishing. It is also close to the Laurel Hill State Park which is great for hiking and water activities," Britt B. mentions.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup placement: Understand site configurations before arrival. "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 Erik E.
Site selection important: Research sites carefully using reservation systems. "The site numbering is a bit wonky on the door loop so make sure you look at your map before you start driving the loops," notes an RVer at Donegal Campground.
Expect varied terrain: Many sites require leveling equipment. "My complains...WAY too close to the neighbors and VERY little shade. It's a small campground though. Would probably stay at again. There is road noise, which really didn't bother me," shares Olivia L.
Full hookup limitations: Not all campgrounds offer complete services. "Right off turnpike and Rt 31. Can barely hear the traffic. Great pool areas and 2 fishing ponds. Only 30 amp power available tho," mentions Fred R. about Laurel Highlands.
Traveler
