The Laurel Highlands region surrounding Jones Mills sits at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,800 feet, creating distinct microclimates across the area's campgrounds. Winter camping isn't recommended as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with annual snowfall averaging 80-100 inches. Most campgrounds close for the season by late October and don't reopen until mid-April.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers year-round fishing in its 63-acre lake. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk," notes Erik E., who visited in June 2024.
Rock climbing: The natural formations at Laurel Hill provide beginner-friendly bouldering options. "There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! And even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," says Jill R. about her experience at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Historical sites: The region offers several significant historical attractions within driving distance. "The campground is about 40 minutes from the Flight 93 National Memorial, about 20 minutes from Fallingwater, and there were a couple of wineries in the area as well," explains Gregory L. about the location of Roaring Run Resort.
What campers like
Natural water slides: Located near Ohiopyle State Park, Sliding Rock offers a unique natural attraction. "Get there early to get a parking spot…and then look forward to having some serious liquid fun. A natural water slide extends around 100 feet as it winds through the rock. Wear sturdy shorts and shirt…I'd also recommend solid footwear," recommends Dave V. from Kentuck Campground.
Trail connectivity: Many campsites provide direct access to regional trail systems. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," reports Bounding Around about their November stay at Kentuck Campground.
Peaceful settings: Despite proximity to highways, several campgrounds maintain a quiet atmosphere. "If you like camping to be quiet, peaceful and simple, then you'll love this little campground. The sites are a little close together but since it's so small, it's still very private," writes Theresa T. about her stay at Donegal Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: When booking at multi-loop campgrounds, research your specific loop. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy," advises Casey L. about Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. "The campground is situated right off of the main road so the road noise can be an issue if it bothers you. We personally, didn't sleep well because of the road noise," mentions Indy A. about her stay at Donegal Campground.
Site levelness challenges: Many sites require additional work to level equipment. "The RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," notes Kathy L. from Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Gregory L. adds about Roaring Run Resort: "The sites are reasonable level, but the one we had was a little tricky to get into because of it being on a hill."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities for children. "We have a wonderful, big electric and water site. Our camper doesn't have a bathroom so we need the bathhouse," explains Nora M. about her Ohiopyle State Park experience, adding that while the bathhouses need updating, the park itself offers excellent family recreation.
Entertainment variety: Look for campgrounds with structured activities. "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads. The lake and farm country provided a welcoming and relaxing setting. The trail around the lake was perfect for running or walking," shares Brandy Q. about her stay at Hickory Hollow Campground.
Water park amenities: For family-focused accommodations, consider water recreation. "Mill run by far the best yogi bear/campground we have been to. Second time we have been & they have upgraded the water slides 4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids," reports Erik W. about his experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run.
Tips from RVers
Power hookups: Check electrical specifics before booking. "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 Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Limited amenities: Some parks lack full hookups or have restricted amp service. "There are no sewer hookups and no 50 amp service, the whole park is 30 amp," explains Gregory L. about Roaring Run Resort, adding that they do have two dump stations - "one located on the way out, and the other located in one of the upper loops."
Supply planning: Remote locations require advance planning. "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close," advises Robert C. about pet friendly camping near Jones Mills, Pennsylvania at Kentuck Campground.
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