Tent camping in Hidden Valley, Pennsylvania extends beyond the Great Allegheny Passage trail system into additional wilderness areas and small campgrounds throughout the Laurel Highlands region. This rural southwestern Pennsylvania location sits at elevations between 1,800-2,500 feet, contributing to cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Fall temperatures typically drop below 40°F at night, requiring proper cold-weather gear for tent campers during autumn months.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forests surrounding Laurel Ridge State Park Campground provide excellent opportunities for spotting native Pennsylvania wildlife. "This is a beautiful park with several dramatic overlooks out over valleys to the east. I've heard a barred owl at night both times I camped here," notes camper Brian S.
Cannabis-friendly activities: Specialty experiences await at Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm, which offers unique agricultural programming. "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," shares reviewer Ashley F. This unique activity combines relaxation with farm animal interaction.
Paddling access: Multiple tent sites along the Youghiogheny River provide easy water access for kayaking and canoeing. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," reports Shari G. about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground. Many GAP trail campsites serve as convenient put-in or take-out points for paddlers.
What campers like
Unique shelters: The Adirondack-style lean-tos at Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run receive positive reviews for their practicality. Dave V. explains, "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain."
Privacy between campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural spacing between tent sites at Dravo's Landing Campground. "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," notes Sarah Q. about the campground layout.
Low cost camping options: Budget-conscious campers enjoy the numerous free tent camping locations in the region. "This is one of the only free hiker-biker campgrounds along the GAP trail (mile 99.6)," reports Shari G. about Roundbottom. Most hiker-biker camps along the trail remain first-come, first-served with no reservation requirements.
What you should know
Water sourcing challenges: Tent campers should verify water availability before arrival. At Roundbottom, Shari G. notes, "The well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing. We grabbed water at the last town before the campground."
Train noise disruptions: Nearly all reviews of campsites along the GAP trail mention train noise as the primary drawback. Reviewers consistently recommend bringing earplugs for sleeping. The frequency of trains varies but typically includes several nighttime passages.
Seasonal differences: Fall camping brings dramatically cooler temperatures compared to summer visits. The higher elevation of Mountain View Camps makes it particularly chilly after September. Richard C. recommends, "Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife precautions: Families should properly store food items overnight at riverside campgrounds. Sarah Q. warns, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" Bear-proof food storage isn't typically required, but small animal prevention remains important.
Multi-use opportunities: The GAP Trail Campground - Bikers Only provides excellent facilities despite its name restriction. "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well," notes Shari G., making this a good option for families who want walking-distance access to small town amenities.
Bathroom considerations: Toilet facilities vary significantly between camping areas. Some sites offer maintained vault toilets while others have no facilities. At Round Bottom, Dave V. observed, "Usually the vault toilets along this trail are clean, maintained and stocked…but on this visit, piles of trash were inside likely from an overly busy weekend."
Tips from RVers
Small RV limitations: Most camping areas near Hidden Valley accommodate only tent camping or very small camper vans under 20 feet. The limited access roads and tight turning radius eliminate most RV camping opportunities, especially along the GAP trail where many sites require hiking or biking in.
Campsite leveling needs: Finding level ground presents challenges at several locations. Christopher M. notes about Indian Creek Camplands Inc, "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites." RVers should bring leveling blocks and carefully scout sites before setup.
Limited hookup options: Electric hookup availability remains minimal in the region. Most sites offering electricity have very few electric sites, so advance reservations are essential. Water hookups are similarly restricted to a small number of established campgrounds.
