Laughlintown, Pennsylvania sits within the forested Laurel Highlands region at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-82°F, while winter months see frequent snowfall accumulations of 75+ inches annually. Camping options near Laughlintown include traditional tent sites, RV hookups, and deluxe cabin accommodations across several state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Water activities at Laurel Hill State Park: The 63-acre lake provides fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities from April through October. "There is a large beach and designated swimming area. Bike and boat rentals are available in the summer season," notes Lee D. who visited Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Hiking trails throughout Linn Run State Park: Multiple trail systems range from easy to challenging with access to streams and forest terrain. "There are charming rustic cabins... right next to a shady crick, near a sliding rock, and some nice hikes. Great spot for kids," explains Rachael K. who stayed at Linn Run State Park Cabins.
Fishing in stocked ponds at Mirror Lake: Year-round fishing opportunities with multiple access points around shorelines. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk," according to Erik E., a visitor at Laurel Hill State Park.
Local historical attractions: Several museums and historical sites operate within 20 minutes of Laughlintown. "Camp host family was awesome and usually the lower staff all are," mentions Mathew H. who stayed at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing. "Close by is Ligonier, Idlewild, and St. Vincent (where the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp takes place)."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites at Hickory Hollow: Sites feature ample separation with trees providing privacy between campsites. "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," reports Brandy Q. who camped at Hickory Hollow Campground.
Year-round camping options at KOA Madison: Winter camping with heated facilities makes off-season stays comfortable. "We're staying in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. Friendly and cozy spot. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots," explains Zachary H. who stayed at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Clean facilities at Shawnee State Park: Regular maintenance keeps bathrooms and common areas in good condition. "Bathroom and showers were clean, bright, and there is a dish washing sink outside. Showers were push button but pressure was great and the water was hot," reports Danielle S. who camped at Shawnee State Park Campground.
Large dog play areas: Designated off-leash zones provide space for pets to exercise. "A small but convenient off-leash dog area was also a wonderful amenity," notes Brandy Q. about Hickory Hollow Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters at Kentuck Campground: Many campsites have terrain challenges requiring careful selection. "I heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time," explains Lee D. about Shawnee State Park. "Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level."
Weather considerations for glamping in Laughlintown: The Laurel Highlands region experiences temperature fluctuations requiring proper preparation. "We've been very impressed by the pristine conditions of many Pennsylvania state parks, but this one had a more rustic feel and had not been modernized," notes Lee D. about visiting Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Limited cell coverage: Several campgrounds have spotty cellular service. "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon," mentions Lee D. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Advance grocery shopping needed: Limited stores near campgrounds require planning ahead. "Not a lot of restaurants or stores nearby, so keep that in mind if you'll be there awhile," advises Becky C. about visiting Hickory Hollow Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access at Mirror Lake: Modern play equipment located centrally within the campground. "The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store. We had 8 kids and 8 adults who all had a blast playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc," reports Austin B. about Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Stream exploration opportunities: Shallow creek access points ideal for children. "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," shares Jill R. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Budget-friendly boating options: Kayak rentals available at reasonable rates. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," mentions Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Pet-friendly loops at state parks: Designated areas welcome families with animals. "Looking around the rest of the campground, the loop up near the cabins was a typical RV area with sites lined up with little privacy in between. I would look at the other loops for our next tent-camping visit," advises Laura who visited Laurel Hill State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require leveling blocks or equipment. "Our site was very private and relatively flat. We did not use the bathroom facilities but they seemed nice," reports Kevin E. about Keystone State Park Campground.
Hookup placement varies: Power and water connections sometimes require extensions. "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 camping at Laurel Hill State Park.
Loop selection for privacy: Some campground sections offer more separation between sites. "The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and is set in the woods. There are some very secluded sites," explains Matt R. about the different camping areas at Keystone State Park.
Seasonal road closures: Maintenance projects may impact access during shoulder seasons. "We were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank. The campground was really nice and really empty in November when we were there," mentions Bounding Around after visiting Ohiopyle State Park.
