Camping spots near Oakdale, Pennsylvania range in elevation from approximately 800 to 1,200 feet above sea level, situated within the Appalachian Plateau region. The terrain features rolling hills and several stream valleys that create natural boundaries between camping areas. Most campgrounds in this area experience moderate temperature drops at night, even in summer months, with average overnight lows in the 50s during peak camping season.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: At Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, the 101-acre Raccoon Lake offers multiple fishing spots accessible from the shore. "The dog out to swim and chase geese and ducks. A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun," notes Jim L., who finds the park ideal for water activities.
Winter hiking: Some campgrounds maintain trails year-round, allowing for seasonal exploration. "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop," reports Jay R. about winter activities at Raccoon Creek State Park.
Historic exploration: The region offers several historical sites within short drives of camping areas. At Beaver Creek State Park Campground, visitors can explore a preserved pioneer village. "The best part about the area was the history that surrounds it. There is a pioneer village near the park office that offers some picnicking areas around it. It also has original buildings from the pioneer days," notes reviewer Shay D.
Lake recreation: Several campgrounds feature water-based activities beyond swimming. "Kayaking, inflatables, beach, but almost anything you want to do will cost you an additional charge," mentions Terra B. at Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, where water features are a primary attraction.
What Campers Like
Secluded tent sites: Some campgrounds offer more private spots for tent campers seeking solitude. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, "Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac," according to Dusty R., who appreciates the campground's layout.
First-time camping experiences: The area has several campgrounds suitable for camping newcomers. "I had the most wonderful time on my first tent camping at Racoon Creek. We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night," shares Mariana N., highlighting how accessible the experience can be for beginners.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local animals in their natural habitat. Jim L. mentions that Raccoon Creek State Park is "a great place to take the dog out to swim and chase geese and ducks," showing the diversity of wildlife visible from camping areas.
Mountain views: Elevated campgrounds provide valley vistas unique to the region. "You are on top of a mountain with great views. The spots are well spaced out and it is family owned," notes Corey L. about Mountain Top Campground, where the high elevation creates scenic overlooks.
What You Should Know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering no coverage at all. At Austin Lake RV Park, one camper reports "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier," which can be either a drawback or a benefit depending on camping preferences.
Shower facilities: Bathroom amenities differ greatly between state parks and private campgrounds. "Bathrooms are the typical Forest Service pit toilet, and drinking water is also available," notes Shari G. about Dravo's Landing Campground, while other campgrounds charge for showers: "Need to use the bathhouse? Better take quarters...bc the showers are coin operated," cautions Terra B.
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "The hills were terrible getting there, then another hill to get to the KOA. Then ANOTHER hill to get to our site," warns Cynthia K. about Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, indicating that larger vehicles may face accessibility issues.
Site levelness: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain that can affect comfort. "A dozen or so of the sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable," reports Kevin D. about site conditions that can impact the camping experience.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: When camping with children, check for on-site recreational facilities. "Has a playground in every section, well equipped cabins, a swimming area with inflatables, kayak, pontoon, and paddle boarding rentals, a bumper boat area, small lake where you can fish and boat," explains Linda R. about family amenities at Austin Lake RV Park.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise that might disturb light sleepers or young children. "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up," advises Shari G. about staying at Dravo's Landing.
Winter family activities: Several campgrounds offer seasonal programming that can engage children. "We did the Palomino Loop. It also was quite interesting getting to the trail. Some nice snow covered back roads," shares Jay R. about family-friendly winter hiking at Raccoon Creek State Park.
Swimming options: Water features vary widely between campgrounds in the region. "There is a lake with swimming and kayak rentals," mentions Larry M. about Raccoon Creek State Park, while others offer more developed facilities with additional costs.
Tips from RVers
Grey water management: Some campgrounds offer innovative solutions for waste handling. At Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, "Easy highway access great for overnight travel," notes Candi S., making it convenient for RVers passing through.
Leveling challenges: The hilly terrain creates site conditions that require preparation. "Very steep narrow roads to access campground and sites..sites not level and noisy, next to highway," warns Chris H. about access at Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA.
Mountain access: Higher elevation campgrounds may present unique challenges. "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest route in," advises Corey L. about Mountain Top Campground, suggesting that advance planning is essential.
Electric hookup limitations: Not all sites with electric offer the same amperage options. "They do provide all other hookups for free that are found at each campsite (i.e fresh water hose for city water, 30 amp cable already connected to the pedestal, and grey water hookup so you don't have to unpack and use your own!)," explains Dave about Mountain Top Campground's hookup configuration.
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