Campgrounds near Hidden Valley, Pennsylvania offer a variety of terrain from mountain ridges to creek settings. The area sits within the Laurel Highlands, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer days typically reach the mid-80s with cooler evenings in the higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Crooked Creek Lake, the manmade lake maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers provides excellent fishing spots. "The lake is great for kayaking or small boats. We fish and kayak the creek opposite the lake," notes Jennifer P., who found the small watercraft options particularly useful.
Biking trails: The Great Allegheny Passage offers excellent cycling routes near several campgrounds. At Dravo's Landing Campground, cyclists appreciate the trail access. "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail," explains Lauren C., highlighting its popularity with bike travelers.
Historical exploration: Visit the visitor centers to learn about local history. According to Doreen M., "The visitors center at Keystone was beautiful and informative of the local history which was very interesting how the park first came about." Many campers find these educational stops add context to their outdoor adventures.
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature water recreation beyond just fishing. AnnaMarie S. describes Bush Recreation Area as "a nice, quiet small campground with a small lake. The boat launch is a nice size to fit 2 boats at a time... It's a great place to fish and swim and just relax."
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: For those seeking privacy, the higher-numbered sites at several campgrounds offer more seclusion. At Fox Den Acres Campground, campers appreciate the natural setting. "Although the campground is close to several large cities, it is very relaxed, wooded, and quiet," explains Harley, who found the urban proximity balanced with natural surroundings.
Mountaintop views: The elevated terrain provides scenic overlooks at some campgrounds. Jennifer H. from Mountain Top Campground reports, "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond."
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers note the quiet environment at less commercialized sites. According to Theresa T., Donegal Campground is ideal "if you like camping to be quiet, peaceful and simple... This campground isn't one of those busy, overcrowded, commercialized campgrounds, and that's why my husband and I loved it!"
Accessible amenities: Many campgrounds offer convenient facilities without feeling overdeveloped. Tim J. from Bush Recreation Area notes, "Our picnic table was (nearly) brand new composite material and easy to move around. The host was right across from us and very friendly. The campground also had a nice shower just a few spots from us."
What you should know
Campsite selection matters: At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, Casey L. advises, "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. We drove through the other one and it looks so much nicer."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds near highways experience traffic sounds. Theresa T. notes about Donegal Campground, "The only thing I can say about this campground that made me not give it 5 stars is, the highway noise. It's located right off the highway so the traffic noise is a little loud."
Site levelness varies: Some camping spots require additional work to level RVs or tents. Keith at Crooked Creek Lake warns, "Tough to get our 36' fifth wheel in... The site wasn't great either. It was a steep drop on the pull out. Twisted my stabilizer jack."
Limited services off-season: Many facilities reduce services outside summer months. Brent C. from Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA mentions, "The season was set to open the day after we left so aside from hiking, we could not avail ourselves of any of the activities."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: For families with young children, select sites near play areas. Kassie F. recommends Bush Recreation Area, saying "It's definitely a great choice for families, especially those w/young children- there's a nice playground and green space."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer swimming areas for hot days. According to Daniel F., Keystone State Park Campground features a "big beach on the lake and playground." Water activities provide crucial entertainment for families with children of various ages.
Pet-friendly trails: For families camping with dogs, look for campgrounds with connected trail systems. Luke K. notes about Keystone State Park, "We've stayed here multiple times throughout several summers. The lake is great for fishing with plenty of hiking trails." These areas provide exercise options for both children and pets.
Food planning: Limited grocery options exist near some campgrounds. At Ohiopyle State Park, Robert C. advises, "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Know what utilities are available before arriving. At Ohiopyle State Park, Bounding Around shares, "The water hookups weren't working at the time, but we were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank." Always have backup plans for essential services.
Leveling challenges: Many mountain sites require additional leveling equipment. Preston G. found at Donegal Campground, "I couldn't get my trailer level on the site so that was a problem but one that a smaller trailer might not have."
Site dimensions: Check site measurements when booking, especially for larger rigs. Kevin E. from Keystone State Park reports, "We stayed at site 43 in the Hillside Loop because we brought our 2 large dogs. Site was very private and relatively flat." Site characteristics vary significantly even within the same campground.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have sewer connections at each site. Keith from Crooked Creek Lake advises, "Dump station is out the exit by ranger building. Pull out and make a left and its about 500' down road on left by pavilion. Pull into the second drive to be on the correct side."
