Best Campgrounds near McKeesport, PA
Camping options near McKeesport, Pennsylvania include a mix of established campgrounds and riverside sites along the Youghiogheny River. The area features several KOA campgrounds like Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA and Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, which provide full-service camping with RV hookups, cabins, and tent sites. Dravo's Landing Campground offers free primitive camping along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail, making it popular with cyclists and hikers. State parks within driving distance, including Raccoon Creek State Park and Keystone State Park, provide additional camping facilities with tent sites, RV accommodations, and cabin rentals.
Seasonal availability varies widely across the region, with many campgrounds operating from April through October. "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars," noted one visitor about Dravo's Landing. Trains passing throughout the night can affect sleep quality at campsites along the GAP trail, so earplugs are recommended. While some facilities remain open year-round, including Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, winter camping requires preparation for cold temperatures. Most developed campgrounds require reservations, particularly for weekend stays during summer months, and many charge fees ranging from $25-90 per night depending on accommodation type and amenities.
Proximity to Pittsburgh makes these camping areas convenient for weekend getaways, with most sites located within 30-60 minutes of the city. Campers highlight the region's natural water features as major draws. Several visitors mentioned the appeal of riverside camping, particularly at Dravo's Landing where the Youghiogheny River provides both scenery and recreation. Campground facilities range from primitive sites with pit toilets to fully-developed resorts with swimming pools, laundry facilities, and camp stores. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, cleanliness varies significantly between properties, with some campgrounds maintaining spotless facilities while others show signs of deferred maintenance. Many campgrounds offer family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds, fishing ponds, and scheduled activities, though noise levels can be higher at these more developed facilities.
