Tent camping near Hollsopple, Pennsylvania primarily centers around the Laurel Highlands region, where elevations range from 1,200 to 2,900 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night. Most primitive campsites in this area are situated along the Youghiogheny River corridor or within state forests, offering access to both water recreation and woodland trails.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Campers staying at Big Run State Park Campground can enjoy stream fishing with active wildlife. "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish. So quiet and very little traffic," reports Nathan S.
Stargazing sessions: The open fields at STAR LEE FARM provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," notes Tiana S., who appreciated the secluded setting.
Cemetery exploration: For those interested in local history, the historic cemetery near Dravo's Landing Campground offers a glimpse into the past. Lauren C. mentions it's "close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire."
Beekeeping observation: Unique to the Hollsopple area, some campgrounds maintain active apiaries. At STAR LEE FARM, "they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes," according to Tiana S.
What campers like
River sounds: Tent campers consistently mention water sounds as a highlight. At Big Run State Park, Zoe H. shared she "loved the sound of the river as white noise!" while another camper noted the "sound of rushing creek" creating a peaceful overnight experience.
Privacy between sites: Many camping areas near Hollsopple offer good site separation. Nathan S. observed at Big Run State Park that there are "tons of space between sites," making for a more private camping experience.
Free amenities: Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run provides tent campers with raised pads and shelters at no cost. Dave V. notes it has "raised tent pads (4), vault toilet, Adirondack shelters (2), firepits, picnic tables" all available for free.
Weekend escape: The Hollsopple region serves as an accessible getaway from urban areas. Sarah A. found that Long Acres on Clover Creek offered "a great escape from reality. The stars are so bright out here and the tent was absolutely fabulous!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Signal strength varies considerably throughout the camping areas. At STAR LEE FARM, "service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world," according to Tiana S.
Water availability concerns: Most primitive sites require campers to bring or filter water. Dave V. observed at Round Bottom that "there is hand pump but the water was discolored. It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking."
Bathroom maintenance: Vault toilets and pit latrines are common but upkeep varies by season and usage. Dave V. noted that "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."
Wildlife encounters: Secure food storage is essential at tent sites near Hollsopple. Sarah Q. at Dravo's Landing warns "just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: For families with small children, seek out campgrounds with covered structures. At Maple Festival Park, Shari G. notes you can "set your tent up on the lawn, up on the stage, or under the long lean-to, if you want to get out of the weather."
Water play areas: When camping with children in summer months, creek access provides entertainment. Andy C. reports that at Big Run State Park, "the kids loved playing in the water. Very quiet and relaxing!"
Pet considerations: Not all campgrounds welcome pets. Check restrictions before arriving as policies vary widely between locations. For example, Laurel Ridge State Park does permit pets, while Round Bottom Camping Area does not.
Group camping logistics: For family reunions or larger gatherings, certain sites accommodate multiple tents. Sarah Q. reports that at Dravo's Landing, "we camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most tent camping areas near Hollsopple lack electrical or water connections for RVs. Only a few locations like Nancy's Boat to Shore Campground can accommodate smaller recreational vehicles, but without hookups.
Access restrictions: Many GAP Trail camping areas cannot be reached by vehicle. Kristen H. notes that at Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, "these campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic."
Navigating campsite layouts: Tent-focused campgrounds may have terrain challenges for RVs. Andy C. shared specific site information: "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
