Camping options near Jones Mills, Pennsylvania range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV pads. The Laurel Highlands region sits at elevations between 1,500 and 2,800 feet, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding lowland areas. Frost can occur well into May at higher elevation campgrounds, with nighttime temperatures in the 40s common even during summer months.
What to do
Water activities at Ohiopyle State Park: The Youghiogheny River runs through Ohiopyle State Park, offering rafting, kayaking and tubing opportunities. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground. We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities," notes a camper.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Several campgrounds feature fishing ponds or lakes with rental equipment available. At Roaring Run Resort, visitors enjoy shoreline fishing without needing a boat. "The lake and farm country provided a welcoming and relaxing setting. The trail around the lake was perfect for running or walking," mentions one visitor.
Hiking through Forbes State Forest: Multiple hiking trails connect the campgrounds to Forbes State Forest trail system. "This is a very nice campground with nice spots. Site 166 is not flat what so ever. We recommend checking out cucumber falls, which isn't terribly far away," advises a visitor to Ohiopyle State Park.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the region undergo regular updates and maintenance. "The bathhouse was clean and easy to access. Would definitely stay here again," mentions a camper at Hickory Hollow Campground. "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads."
Seclusion at smaller parks: Kooser State Park offers a more intimate camping experience compared to larger facilities. "It has a pretty decent campground with nice spots. A great area for hiking and taking walks. Pet friendly," states a reviewer who appreciated the quiet atmosphere.
Proximity to attractions: The central location puts campers within driving distance of numerous destinations. "This campground was the perfect location for both activities! Our Sprint hotspot didn't work well (unboosted), but our Verizon did," notes an Ohiopyle visitor who used the campground as a base camp for exploring Fallingwater.
What you should know
Uneven terrain at many sites: Several campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring leveling equipment. "The sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," warns a camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "No phone reception at this one! They welcome all furry friends," notes a visitor to Kooser State Park, while others reported spotty service at most locations.
Road noise at certain campgrounds: Several locations experience highway sound due to proximity to major routes. "The park is close to the road so you will experience some road noise," warns one Kooser State Park reviewer, while another notes, "Lots of noise off the PA Turnpike but what do you expect when it's right off the interstate."
Tips for camping with families
Jellystone Park amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run offers extensive activities designed specifically for children. "This Yogi Bear campground offers a large waterpark area, large pool, monster truck rides and many activities. You don't have to leave to find something to do, but there are also many local attractions as well. Kids love it here," explains a repeat visitor.
Playground equipment: Facilities for children vary widely between campgrounds. "The campground has playground, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area at the end of one of the loops," notes a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park.
Budget for additional fees: Some family-oriented activities require extra payment beyond camping fees. "Bike and boat rentals are available in the summer season; the season was set to open the day after we left so aside from hiking, we could not avail ourselves of any of the activities," reports a Laurel Hill State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords needed: Some campgrounds have awkward utility layouts. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises a camper at Kooser State Park Campground.
Leveling challenges: RV pads at many locations require substantial leveling. "All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not," notes a Laurel Hill State Park visitor, while another states, "My only complaint is that many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have tight turns or narrow roads. "I could get around with my huge fifth wheel but it was still very thickly treed the way I like them," explains a camper at Donegal Campground who appreciated the wooded setting despite navigation challenges.
