The Laurel Highlands region near Rices Landing sits at approximately 900-1,000 feet elevation in southwestern Pennsylvania's Allegheny Mountains. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months average 70-85°F with moderate humidity. The terrain features rolling hills with mixed hardwood forests, creating distinct seasonal camping experiences with peak visitation from May through September.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Ohiopyle State Park offers extensive trail systems for all skill levels. "The Ferncliff Trail loops around the inside of the Yough as it does a near 360 in town. Gentle terrain along the falls and then through moss covered forest," notes a visitor at Ohiopyle State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and rivers provide fishing throughout the area. At Fox Den Acres Campground, one visitor observed children "fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!! So much fun for them."
Water recreation: Visitors can enjoy rafting, kayaking and swimming in multiple locations. "Just outside town as you climb the hill, to the left is Sliding Rock. 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," describes an Ohiopyle visitor.
Historical sites: Several historical attractions are within easy driving distance. "We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities!" shares a reviewer about their stay near the famous Frank Lloyd Wright home.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites. At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are consistently mentioned. A camper at Chestnut Ridge Regional Park noted, "Sites are very large. Water pressure was good. Bath house was clean. The grounds were very clean and well kept. Staff was friendly."
Family activities: Many campgrounds offer programming for all ages. "They have a pool, fishing pond and a cloud pillow with the playground next to it along with two small dog play areas. Every week they organize different themes for bingo, and other games," states a review about Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Convenient location: The area provides good access to multiple attractions. "This campground is easy to get to from the interstate. The spaces are big enough that you are not on top of your neighbors, which is nice," writes a reviewer about Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground.
What you should know
Reservations needed: Booking ahead is essential, especially during peak season. "Book early for holidays," advises a visitor to Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
Weather considerations: The region experiences variable conditions that affect camping comfort. At Coopers Rock State Forest, "The bathrooms do not have lighting so bring a headlamp or flashlight."
Varied site quality: Campground terrain can present challenges. "The site wasn't great either. It was a steep drop on the pull out. Twisted my stabilizer jack," cautions a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA visitor.
Seasonal limitations: Most facilities operate on limited schedules. "We went in late October and we arrived fairly late in the day and to our surprise someone was in the store when we got there," notes a Coopers Rock State Forest camper.
Limited amenities: Some sites lack expected services. "There's no water sources in the primitive section, and the shower house is quite a hike from the furthest sites," explains a Fox Den Acres Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose activity-rich campgrounds: Look for sites with multiple recreational options. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run, "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."
Bring supplies: Grocery options are limited near many campgrounds. "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 a reviewer at Ohiopyle State Park.
Consider cabin options: For glamping near Rices Landing, Pennsylvania, cabins provide comfort with nature access. "All made of stone, as 20+ bunk beds upstairs -- huge facility," describes a visitor about the Klaer Lodge at Chestnut Ridge Regional Park.
Check bathhouse locations: Bathroom proximity matters with young children. Fox Den Acres Campground offers "restrooms a short walk away" from their tent sites, according to one camper.
Tips from RVers
Arrive early for level sites: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites are pretty close together and we couldn't use our fire ring because it ended up being very close to our rig. Luckily we camped with friends who had more space in their spot," shares a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA visitor.
Plan for water access: Not all sites have full hookups. For glamping accommodations near Rices Landing, "Sites have electric but no water or sewer. A new section will be opening later this season that will have elec and water," notes a Coopers Rock State Forest reviewer.
Verify campground roads: Some areas have challenging access. "Road out a decent storm and 2.5 inches of rain in 24 hours. One tree came down close us. Probably no more risky than anywhere else," reports a recent visitor to Coopers Rock State Forest.
Choose pull-through sites when available: Easier access reduces setup stress. "Nice pull-thrus with full hookups for overnights," comments a Fox Den Acres Campground visitor.
