Tent campsites near Harmony, Pennsylvania range from primitive riverside spots to sites with basic amenities. The region features a mix of woodland and riverfront camping options within the Allegheny watershed area, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. Most campsites in the area experience seasonal closures during winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Mountain View Camps provides access to several hiking paths through the surrounding forest land. Richard C. notes, "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
River paddling: Danner Primitive Campground offers direct river access for kayakers and canoers with dedicated water entry points. Sites include stairs to the water specifically designed for paddler access, making it a practical stop during multi-day river trips.
Biking the GAP trail: Cyclists can access designated camping areas along the Great Allegheny Passage. Shari G. describes The GAP Trail Campground as "more like a Spa than a Campground" with amenities that make it "the perfect hybrid" between camping and comfort.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Multiple campsites maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. A visitor to Quiet and Secluded mentioned, "Rolled up on the later side but was welcomed kindly by the owner Bill. Beautiful spot. Clean amenities!"
Privacy between sites: Dravo's Landing Campground offers spacious camping areas with good separation. Sarah Q. reported, "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."
Covered areas for weather protection: Several campgrounds feature shelters and lean-tos. Lauren C. noted about Dravo's Landing, "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."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Campsites near the GAP trail experience regular train traffic. Shari G. advises, "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!"
Wildlife precautions: Local wildlife may be attracted to food at campsites. Sarah Q. warns, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Seasonal availability: Most tent sites near Harmony operate from May through September. Colwells Campground specifically lists its season as May 1 to September 30, which aligns with the more moderate temperatures in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Tree farm environment: Pioneer Trails Tree Farm provides a unique setting among planted trees. Andrew O. shared, "My family and I had a great time. It was very easy and relaxing. The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids."
Historical points of interest: Some campgrounds feature nearby historical elements. Lauren C. mentions, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire."
Bathroom accessibility: Consider the distance to facilities when selecting sites. Andrew O. noted about Pioneer Trails, "Only wish toilet access was a little closer for the women."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup options: For RVers wanting tent sites with power, Quiet and Secluded provides electrical connections at their tent camping areas. Tom J. commented, "Beautiful place. Host was very accommodating. Great time."
Access restrictions: Many of the primitive tent sites near Harmony are not suitable for RVs due to access limitations. The GAP Trail Campground and Dravo's Landing both require hiking or walking in, making them inaccessible to vehicles beyond parking areas.
Water considerations: While some sites provide water access, availability varies. Shari G. explains about Dravo's Landing, "Bathrooms are the typical Forest Service pit toilet, and drinking water is also available."
