Tent campsites near Imperial, Pennsylvania cluster along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail corridor, following the path of the Youghiogheny River. This 150-mile trail corridor from Pittsburgh to Cumberland connects numerous hiker-biker campgrounds that typically lack vehicle access. The camping season runs April through October, with peak usage during summer weekends when cyclists populate the trail.
What to do
Explore abandoned cemeteries: Dravo's Landing campground features a historic cemetery near the camping area. As one camper noted, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire" (Dravo's Landing Campground).
Filter water from the Youghiogheny: The river provides a reliable water source at many sites. One camper at Roundbottom described their experience: "It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking."
Cool off after rides: Several campsites offer direct river access. A visitor to Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground mentioned, "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail" (Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground).
Participate in cannabis-themed activities: The Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers unique programming. A reviewer noted, "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending."
What campers like
Strategically positioned stops: GAP trail campsites serve as logical overnight points. According to one camper, "Dravo's Landing is a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail (it's the last one before Pittsburgh!), and a nice easy introduction to bikepacking camping for the east-bound" (Dravo's Landing Campground).
Spacious camping areas: Most sites accommodate multiple tents beyond the designated pads. A camper described, "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."
Upgraded facilities at specialty sites: While most GAP campsites offer basic amenities, some provide enhanced facilities. One camper described The GAP Trail Campground as "More like a Spa than a Campground! Imagine if a luxury AirBnB and a Hobbit Camp had a baby – this place would be it" (The GAP Trail Campground).
Access to Trail Towns: Several campsites connect to nearby communities. A reviewer noted, "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well."
What you should know
Train noise is unavoidable: The railroad corridor parallels the GAP trail and campgrounds. One camper advised, "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up – so bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep!"
Water sources vary by location: Not all sites offer potable water. A camper at Roundbottom noted, "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" (Pioneer Trails Tree Farm Campground).
Wildlife interactions: Raccoons frequently visit campsites. A camper warned, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
First-come, first-served sites: Most GAP trail campsites don't accept reservations. A reviewer explained, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pack earplugs for everyone: Train noise affects all GAP trail campsites. A camper recommended, "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night...bring good earplugs!"
Consider tree farm camping: For a different experience with more privacy, the Pioneer Trails Tree Farm offers unique camping among Christmas trees. A family camper shared, "The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids" (Lake Eron Park).
Look for covered structures: Some sites offer shelters for protection from weather. A reviewer noted, "We were bikepacking the GAP Trail east from Pittsburgh and arrived on a Sunday evening mid-June. We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside."
Avoid summer weekends: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. One camper observed, "Bicycle traffic was fairly light during the week, so not only did you have the GAP Trail mostly to oneself, the camping areas were either sparsely filled or empty."
Tips from RVers
Not recommended for traditional RVs: Most camping areas near Imperial cater to tent campers and lack RV hookups or facilities. Even when RV camping is permitted, access is limited. A reviewer pointed out, "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run can only be accessed by the GAP Trail, which means on foot or bicycle…or paddlers on the Youghioheny River."
Consider alternative lodging: For those traveling by vehicle, some locations offer unique accommodations. At the Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm, "One yurt with a bed is offered" (Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm).
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