Glamping sites near Imperial, Pennsylvania range from state parks to specialized farms, with accommodations nestled in the rolling Appalachian foothills. The region sits at elevations between 900-1,400 feet, creating moderate temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Most glamping locations in this area maintain gravel access roads that can become muddy after rainfall, particularly during the spring season.
What to Do
Disc golf at state parks: Tomlinson Run State Park features a complete disc golf course throughout the wooded areas. "This is the one campground that my wife and I make it to every year. There's truly nothing special about it, except that is a very friendly, and laid back place to camp," notes Kevin C. about Tomlinson Run State Park Campground.
Kayaking on small lakes: Many glamping locations provide water access with non-motorized boating options. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, one visitor reports, "The end spot near the lake has to be the best spot in the place" and another mentions seeing "things jump so I don't doubt there's fish and it's really pretty in the backdrop."
Stargazing programs: Seasonal astronomy events are available at select parks. At Barkcamp State Park, "Oglebay comes out and has star gazing when it's in season," according to Fred R. The elevated position of many glamping sites provides excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution.
What Campers Like
Spacious glamping platforms: Many sites feature elevated wooden platforms for glamping tents. At Breakneck Campground, "The tent camping is either grassy, flat sites or on an elevated timber platform overlooking a gorge. They also offer walk-in tent sites down by the creek which are beautiful," according to Britt B.
Year-round accessibility: Some glamping locations maintain winter operations. One camper at Salem-Lisbon KOA states, "This was an awesome place for a winter trip! The tent sites were big and right on the lake. Everyone was so kind!" These sites typically provide additional heating options during cold months.
Privacy between units: The natural terrain creates separation at many glamping sites. "The sites are 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," reports Dusty R. about Tomlinson Run, noting it was "a longer walk to the bath house but we didn't mind that at all."
What You Should Know
Seasonal amenities vary: Swimming facilities typically open late spring through early fall. At Fox Den Acres Campground, a visitor notes, "We stayed early in the season so many of the amenities were not open yet. We did watch kids fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!!"
Water sources can be limited: Some glamping areas require carrying water from central locations. "Have to go up to entrance as the water spouts are still shut off," mentions Shannon G. about spring camping. Several glamping sites require guests to bring their own drinking water or fill containers at designated stations.
Site terrain can be challenging: The regional topography means many sites are not completely level. One camper at Madison-Pittsburgh KOA reports, "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites."
Tips for Camping with Families
Family-oriented activities: Many glamping destinations schedule regular activities. At Rose Point Park, "Halloween weekends are a great time to visit!" according to Terra B., and Owen I. adds, "Halloween Events include pumpkin carving contest, voting on pumpkins, campstore sales, dance party."
Multi-generational options: Some sites offer combined tent and cabin glamping. One visitor notes, "We could have had others camping in the tent section of the campground so it is an easy way to have a mixed crowd for a camping outing." This flexibility allows families to accommodate different comfort needs.
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. There are designated fireplaces. It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek," reports a camper at Breakneck Campground, highlighting the need for proper gear even when glamping.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: The terrain creates significant differences between sites. "The sites in the lower field, where I was, were roomy and level and all pull-throughs," notes Judith R. about Fox Den Acres, adding "No advance payment was required. You pay when you stay."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires additional preparation. One RVer at Salem-Lisbon KOA reports, "It's been raining and our step out is into mud. To be expected in the area during the winter. If it isn't snow covered, it's muddy." Most glamping facilities in Imperial remain operational year-round but with limited services during winter.
Utility connections: Water and electric availability changes seasonally. A Keystone State Park visitor notes, "We stayed at site 43 in the Hillside Loop because we brought our 2 large dogs. Site was very private and relatively flat." Power supply is generally consistent but water may be winterized from November through March at many locations.
