Tent camping near Johnstown, Pennsylvania centers around the Laurel Highlands region, where elevation ranges from 1,200 to 2,700 feet and seasonal temperatures vary widely. The area features multiple hiker-biker campgrounds along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail system, with free sites and paid options offering varying levels of amenities. Trails frequently follow former rail corridors through the Allegheny Mountains, with camping areas accessible by bicycle, foot, or sometimes boat.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Star Lee Farm provides secluded tent camping on private property with excellent night sky viewing conditions. "Place was very pretty and secluded... There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures," notes Tiana S. about this Star LEE FARM property.
Water activities: Camp near the Youghiogheny River at several GAP trail campsites for fishing and river access. "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River... It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," shares Lauren C. about her experience at Dravo's Landing Campground.
Hiking connections: Access numerous trails directly from camping areas in the Laurel Highlands region. "Close access to state game lands and nearby hiking trails and fishing spots!" mentions Sarah A. about camping options at Long Acres on Clover Creek.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many tent sites in the region offer considerable distance from other campers. "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality," writes a camper about Long Acres on Clover Creek.
Riverside camping: Sites along waterways rate consistently high with visitors. Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground provides unique access options: "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance," explains Kristen H.
Facilities variation: Campground amenities range from basic to surprisingly comfortable. "The outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not," describes Shari G. about The GAP Trail Campground, adding "Everything is clean as a whistle."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railroad tracks parallel many camping areas, creating significant nighttime noise. "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River... it is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had," warns Dave V. about Round Bottom Camping Area.
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds have limited or untreated water sources. A visitor to Nancy's Boat To Shore noted, "Follow the rules and you will have a wonderful time," suggesting campers should come prepared with adequate water supplies.
Weather preparedness: The Laurel Highlands region experiences significant seasonal variation and sudden weather changes. "We were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain," reports a GAP trail camper.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options: Several campgrounds offer Adirondack shelters as alternatives to tent camping. "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside," notes a visitor to Round Bottom Camping Area, making this ideal for families needing extra protection.
Accessibility considerations: Not all campsites have vehicle access, requiring planning for families with young children. "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run can only be accessed by the GAP Trail, which means on foot or bicycle," explains a reviewer.
Wildlife awareness: Local raccoons frequently visit campsites. One camper at Dravo's Landing advises, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Johnstown caters to tent campers, with few full-hookup sites. At Indian Creek Camplands, Christopher M. notes the practical challenges: "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Seasonal accessibility: Many campgrounds near Johnstown operate seasonally, typically May through October. "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents," mentions Sarah Q. about Dravo's Landing, though capacity for RVs remains limited.
