Camping access near Fisher, Pennsylvania varies widely by season, with most facilities operating from May through October. Many campsites in this region sit alongside waterways, including the Youghiogheny River which flows through the Laurel Highlands at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet. Winter camping options remain limited, with overnight temperatures frequently dropping below freezing between November and March.
What to do
Water activities on the Yough River: Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run provides direct access to the Youghiogheny River. "It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking," notes Dave V. The waterfront location makes it convenient for paddlers and anglers.
Hiking the Laurel Highlands: From most campgrounds, trail systems connect to various natural features. "Cucumber Falls is on the right. Again, get there early for one of the few parking spaces to walk down to the falls," mentions Dave V. in his review of Kentuck Campground. The falls are approximately a 15-minute drive from the campground.
Biking the GAP Trail: The GAP Trail Campground caters specifically to cyclists traveling the Great Allegheny Passage. "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well," reports Shari G. The trail runs 150 miles from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland.
What campers like
Convenient bike-in camping: Dravo's Landing Campground offers free sites specifically designed for GAP Trail users. Lauren C. describes it as having "a few shelters, nice campsite. It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire." The campground sits at mile marker 110 on the GAP Trail.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathhouses. At The GAP Trail Campground, Shari G. observed, "The outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not." Most campgrounds in the region provide at least vault toilets, with established sites offering full shower facilities.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer adequate room between sites. At Fox Den Acres Campground, Heather H. notes, "Wonderful campground. They provide activities almost every evening, making sure every age range is catered to throughout the week." Tent sites are typically graveled with surrounding grass areas.
What you should know
Train noise affects sleep: Railroad tracks parallel many campgrounds along the river corridors. At Round Bottom Camping Area, Dave V. warns, "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."
Seasonal operation schedule: Most campgrounds close between November and April. "We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities," shares Bounding Around about Kentuck Campground. They added, "The campground was really nice and really empty in November when we were there."
Limited grocery options: Food supplies require planning ahead. Robert C. advises about Ohiopyle, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access during summer: Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA offers a swimming pool that opens early in the camping season. Evelyn T. shares, "They have a pool, fishing pond and a cloud pillow with the playground next to it along with two small dog play areas." The cloud pillow refers to a bouncing pad for children.
Playground availability: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Fox Den Acres, Dena L. observed, "Mostly an RV campground, but several tent sites. Each site was very spacious and well shaded." The campground maintains dedicated recreation areas for different age groups.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Morning hours provide the best viewing times. Evelyn T. notes at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, "The whole back area is covered in blackberry bushes and in the morning you're awakened by the beautiful sounds of birds singing." Campsites near water edges typically offer more wildlife sightings.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this region feature sloped terrain. At Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, Cynthia K. warns, "All the sites are cut into the hill. There's stairs to get down to the bathroom/shower." This terrain makes leveling larger rigs difficult without proper equipment.
Water supply limitations: RV campers should arrive with full water tanks when possible. Regarding Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort, Heath T. appreciated the "modern hookups" but noted varying water pressure during peak usage times. Most campgrounds with hookups provide 30-50 amp service.
Road access considerations: The mountainous terrain creates access challenges for larger vehicles. Kevin D. noted at Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, "A dozen or so of the sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable."
