Hollidaysburg camping sites sit amid the Allegheny Mountains in central Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 900 to 3,000 feet above sea level. Weather patterns typically bring cooler temperatures at higher elevations, with mountain sites averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. Summer camping season runs from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months.
What to do
Fishing at Raystown Lake: Seven Points campground provides access to 8,300 acres of water at Raystown Lake. "We can't wait to go back soon! The lake is so clean and refreshing and we have such beautiful views from our camp site. We went down to the swim beach and our kiddo made sand castles and swam in the clear water," shares Jennifer D. from Seven Points (PA).
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: These IMBA-standard trails begin just above the Ridge camp loop at Seven Points. "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack," notes Travis S. Biking enthusiasts can access "extensive bike trails called Allegrippis trails" directly from the campground.
Visit the Lost Children Monument: This historical site near Blue Knob State Park Campground commemorates a local tragedy. "Local history is right around the corner with the Lost Children of the Alleghenies Monument," writes Jenna G. The monument is accessible via hiking trails within the park, which range from easy to difficult.
Experience balanced rocks at Trough Creek: The park features unusual geological formations. "It has a nice hike up above a creek with a huge rock that appears ready to fall over the cliff with a simple touch. Very neat," explains Nick S. about Trough Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Level, spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the Hollidaysburg area offer well-maintained camping pads. "From the time we arrived and filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station, I knew we were in for a great weekend... One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us," reports Tim J. about Seven Points (PA).
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies between campgrounds. At Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA, "the bathrooms/showers (3 of the 4 look brand new), and the pool has been crystal clear," according to Chuck M. This campground is "in the middle of nowhere but if you like the outdoors, I recommend it."
Waterfront options: For direct lake access, Susquehannock Campground offers prime locations. "Very cool camp. Loops for RVs, higher on the hill, waterfront loops on steeper grounds for tents, and some walk-to sites adjacent to parking right at the point which double as boat-in. Some site right on the water, can walk right into the lake," describes Ian W. about Susquehannock.
Pet-friendly primitive camping: Pat's Primitive Place offers back-to-basics camping for those with pets. "The campsite was exactly what we were looking for. It was off the grid but not too remote... Right around the corner from our site was a great spot along the river for sitting out in the sun and fishing for trout," shares Sarah C.
What you should know
Temperature variations: Higher elevations mean significantly cooler weather. At Blue Knob State Park, located on Pennsylvania's second-highest peak, temperatures can drop unexpectedly. "It was chillier than surrounding areas due to being on the mountain," notes Laura, who visited in September.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Susquehannock, campers should plan accordingly: "No cell service at all, nor OTA TV. Water is available in the campground at various spots. Day use is busy, but campground is pleasantly quiet," reports Gary P.
Site terrain considerations: Tent campers should check site specifications. "Camp sites are rocky so be sure to bring a mat if tent camping. The park does not offer fire wood for purchase; bring extra," advises Jenna G. about Blue Knob State Park Campground.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have water concerns. At Trough Creek, one camper reported: "The 'water hookup' was BROWN. The bathroom has no lights or sink... We had bug spray on and had two ThermaCELLs running and were literally eaten alive by mosquitoes."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Many area campgrounds offer beach access. At Crooked Run Campground, families find "a private beach for the campgrounds make it a nice vacation spot," mentions A.R. R. The park also features "affordable boat rentals" and "a BMX track for kids."
Recreational programming: Some parks offer organized activities. "We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event. The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls," shares Nicole F. about Prince Gallitzin State Park Crooked Run Campground.
Educational opportunities: The Seven Points visitor center provides learning experiences. "The visitors center has a great educational area inside and a nature trail outside. Across from the visitors center is a mountain bike park," Rachel B. explains. This makes for valuable educational opportunities during family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Electric hookups vary between campgrounds. "Great camp sites and friendly staff. RV sites and lots to rent to pitch your own tent, fishing, huge lake with beach, lots of activities for the kids throughout the summer," notes Dawn N. about Lake Raystown Resort, which offers water and electric hookups for RVs.
Dump station facilities: Seven Points features exceptional waste disposal options. "We got in one of the 4 lanes with no wait. The dump station, as noted above had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one," reports Tim J. The four-lane system prevents long waits during busy checkout times.
Site selection for larger rigs: Campers with larger RVs should research specific loops. At Seven Points (PA), Tim J. notes, "We took a drive around through the other six campgrounds and decided Point was our favorite, but obviously crowded because it is right on the lake. Senoia camp was (our) tied with Ridge, but only the lower portion. Once you go up the hill to sites above #231, it gets very steep and far away from the water."
Legend
