Laurel Highlands camping offers diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the region. The area experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, often 5-10 degrees lower during summer months. Several campgrounds near Laughlintown provide year-round access, though amenities may be limited during winter months.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: The region features extensive trail networks connecting multiple parks. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, visitors access both forested paths and lake trails. "The lake is separate from the campground, but it is less than a mile away and a reasonable distance walk," notes Lee D. The park maintains "easy walking lake trail with the kids because it was wide and flat."
Water activities: Fishing and boating options abound across the region. Quemahoning Family Recreation Area sits directly on the water with boat rentals available. As one camper notes, "Quemahoning Family Recreation Area offers great fishing, some nice trails and generally wonderful weather during the summer season." Boats must use electric motors only, and kayak rentals cost around $15 per hour.
Winter recreation: The proximity to ski resorts makes this area valuable for cold-weather camping. Many campgrounds close seasonally, but state forest dispersed camping remains available. "It's a small campground nestled in the Laurel Highlands, close to Hidden Valley and Seven Springs ski resorts," writes a visitor about local options. State forest camping requires proper waste disposal and follows Leave No Trace principles.
What campers like
Creek access: Many sites feature water access for cooling off during summer months. At Kooser State Park Campground, "A beautiful walk through the park leads you to the Kooser Lake, great for fishing." Another camper mentions "a crystal clear stream running through the property" that children enjoy playing in.
Privacy options: Certain campgrounds offer more secluded experiences than others. "There are a few tent-only sites in a wooded area of the campground, a little higher up the hillside," notes a camper. For more privacy, another reviewer at Kentuck Campground recommends: "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."
Weather advantages: The higher elevation creates pleasant summer temperatures. "We camped for 1 night... to escape the head down in Pittsburgh. Sits up high in the mountains close to 3000ft elevation," writes a camper about the cooler conditions. During peak summer months, temperatures typically range 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas.
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience highway sound disturbance. A reviewer at Donegal Campground notes: "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." Light sleepers should consider packing earplugs for sites near major roads.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require work to establish level camping surfaces. "Many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level," warns a camper. Tent campers should bring extra stakes and consider bringing a small tarp for muddy conditions.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. One camper reports: "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon" while others note "No phone reception" at certain parks. The higher elevation sites generally have better service than valley locations, and Verizon typically outperforms other carriers in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Pioneer Park Campground offers "Lots to do for kids. Very close to several state parks for great hiking and biking." Another camper mentions it has "Lots of stuff for the kids to do and all inclusive. Big fishing lakes."
Swimming options: Both lake and pool facilities exist across the region. "The beaches were great. We went canoeing on the lake," writes a camper. Another mentions "The outdoor pool is large and the indoor pool is great for those rainy days." Swimming areas typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some locations charging small day-use fees.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Laughlintown: Most parks welcome pets with proper leashing. "They welcome all furry friends!" notes one camper about Kooser State Park. For those seeking pet-friendly options around Laughlintown, another camper adds: "The campground is pet friendly, even for our bully breed, whom is a gentle giant. That was one of the reasons that we chose this campground."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Electrical connections may require extension cords at many sites. "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 one RVer at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Water access timing: Seasonal campgrounds often limit water availability in early spring and late fall. "The water hookups weren't working at the time, but we were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank," explains a camper visiting in November. Most campgrounds shut off water systems after the first freeze, typically mid-October.
Sewer challenges: Some sites have drainage issues due to terrain. One camper notes "Sewer connection 'up hill'" made disposal difficult. RVers should bring sewer hose supports and consider using gravity-assist devices for challenging connections.
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