Glamping in the Laurel Highlands region near Greensburg sits at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping patterns. The region experiences temperature variations of up to 20°F between mountain campsites and valley locations. Winter closures affect most campgrounds from late October through April, with several exceptions offering year-round accommodations.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing, kids can enjoy playing in the small creek that runs through the property. "The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store. We had 8 kids and 8 adults who all had a blast playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc," notes Austin B.
Fishing opportunities: The lakes at Laurel Hill State Park Campground provide accessible fishing spots even for beginners. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk. We enjoyed the easy walking lake trail with the kids because it was wide and flat," shares Erik E.
Bouldering adventures: Some campgrounds offer natural rock features perfect for climbing enthusiasts. "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," reports Jill R. about Laurel Hill.
What campers like
Campground activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run organizes numerous planned events. "Mill run by far the best yogi bear/campground we have been to. Second time we have been & they have upgraded the water slides 4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids & the original 2 big water slides in woods," states Erik W.
Community atmosphere: Many campgrounds foster social connections. At Mirror Lake, "after office hours they can be commonly found hanging out with their campers. Pick up cornhole games, bonfires, are the norm at the community building," explains Mathew H.
Spacious sites: Keystone State Park Campground offers variety in camping locations. "There are 2 campgrounds in the park, the hillside one and the one on the lake. The lakeside one is a glorified trailer park and is packed during the summer with no privacy. The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods. There are some very secluded sites," advises Matt R.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "We've stayed here multiple times throughout several summers. The lake is great for fishing with plenty of hiking trails. There's plenty to do in surrounding areas from Ft Ligonier to the shops in the town," says Luke K. about Keystone State Park.
Site conditions: Terrain can vary significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. "The sites in the lower field, where I was, were roomy and level and all pull-throughs," shares Judith R. about Fox Den Acres Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies widely between locations. "The bathhouses are not placed 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," notes Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Select appropriate loops: At Laurel Hill State Park, the campground design matters significantly. "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. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy. Campsites more spread out with trees in between and way quieter," advises Casey L.
Consider off-peak visits: Timing affects experience quality. "Although the campground is close to several large cities, it is very relaxed, wooded, and quiet. We weren't to sure what to expect as we usually camp in much more remote areas, but we enjoyed the park very much," reports a Fox Den Acres camper.
Check proximity to attractions: Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park provides access to numerous family activities. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground. We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities!" shares a reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Pay attention to the topography when booking. "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites so I imagine it was just the time of year we visited," explains a camper at The Blue Canoe RV Resort.
Hookup logistics: Electric connections can be awkwardly placed. "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. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Water tank management: For those using smaller cabin facilities with showers, water conservation is essential. "If you stay in one of the smaller kabins with a shower, just know there will be a flood and you should wet, turn the water off, lather, then rinse. Also don't think everyone is showering one after the other because it's very small water tank, it goes lukewarm to cold quick," notes a camper.
