Campgrounds near Indianola, Pennsylvania offer varied terrain from riverfront properties to elevated mountain settings. Area camping locations range from 850-1,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and overnight lows near 60°F. Access roads can narrow significantly at higher elevations, requiring careful navigation during rainy conditions when unpaved surfaces become slippery.
What to do
Water activities on the Youghiogheny River: The Blue Canoe RV Resort provides direct access to kayaking. "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids. Staff make multiple rounds, picks up your trash and delivers your purchased firewood," noted one visitor.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing offers on-site fishing opportunities. According to a camper, "We were lucky enough to get a full-hookup site right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, everything you want on a spring trip."
Creek exploration for children: Smaller waterways provide entertainment for families. As one camper at Mirror Lake mentioned, "Creek was close and neighbors were great," while another noted, "Floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc. All in all we will definitely be returning."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Mountain Top Campground offers roomier sites than many alternatives. "The sites are well spaced out and it is family owned. The family is always out making improvements, talking with the campers, and putting on events," one visitor shared.
Panoramic valley views: Elevated locations provide scenic outlooks. "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond," mentioned a Mountain Top camper.
Proximity to Pittsburgh: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for city visits. A camper observed, "20 minutes to Pittsburgh staff friendly and very helpful. Definitely recommend this campground," while another noted, "This place was great. You are on top of a mountain with great views... close to the spot you want to see in Pittsburgh."
What you should know
Cell phone service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. A camper at Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins warned, "No phone service at all, no matter the carrier. Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. The road dead-ends into the campground and it is all downhill getting there."
Shower facilities often require coins: Many campgrounds charge for shower use. One Mountain Top visitor mentioned, "Bathhouse was clean. Only disappointment was that the showers were coin operated, so you not only needed cash on hand but then had to turn those into special coins for the shower."
Seasonal operation limitations: Operating schedules vary widely. "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in," advised a Mountain Top camper, while Austin Lake specifies it's only "open May 1 - Oct 31" according to their seasonal information.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access considerations: Bear Run Campground offers dedicated recreation areas. "Nice campground but too hilly for kids to ride bikes. Very close to Lake Arthur for fishing and kayaking," mentioned one camper, while another noted, "This campground is deceptively big! There is a swimming pool and playground for the kids."
Activity planning for rainy days: Indoor options matter during wet weather. "Every weekend there are activities, there is a heated pool and Friday night Bingo," shared a Bear Run visitor. Another mentioned, "The campground hosts themed events, game nights and arts & crafts."
Site selection for privacy: Camping with children requires space considerations. "We always camp near the horses as i like a bit more privacy. The front of the campground is a bit too packed for my liking. They also have a primative area that is quite nice," advised a Bear Run camper.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges to mountaintop rv sites near Indianola, Pennsylvania: Approach roads require careful driving. "If you're Overlanding like us just follow the map. Great scenic routes and close to the spot you want to see in Pittsburgh," advised one Mountain Top visitor. Another noted, "Be advised it will seem a little sketchy getting in. Take your time and all will be just fine. Our rig is 39' & 16K. 4wd low helps, not cause you need 4wd just for the lower gears."
Leveling requirements: Raccoon Creek State Park Campground offers varied site terrain. "Most sites are spacious! Only downside is you can hear the airport. Not a huge deal though! We loved it," shared one camper, though another advised, "This rating is just a personal preference. We needed a spot to stay for the night, and the drive up was not worth it. You drive up a long, steep, windy road to the campgrounds."
Utility management considerations: Extended stays require planning for water and electric. At Mountain Top, a camper explained, "45 per night for me ymmv, level gravel lots with wood boarders, lots of grass on each site as well, full verizon coverage lte, 30 + 50amp services, grey water dump on most sites."
