Cabin camping near McKeesport, Pennsylvania offers year-round options with terrain that ranges from mountain ridges to river valleys. The region sits at elevations between 700-2,500 feet and experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Fall camping season extends through late October with colorful foliage creating prime conditions for cabin stays.
What to do
Hiking at Ohiopyle State Park: The park features extensive trail networks for all skill levels. "We were hoping to do some hiking in the morning but got rained out. However the trails looked nice and we hope to be back soon," notes a visitor at Ohiopyle State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Lakes and streams throughout the region offer abundant fishing. "The park itself is gorgeous with a large lake and designated swimming area. There are some very secluded sites," reports a camper at Keystone State Park Campground.
Water recreation: Several parks offer boating, swimming, and water activities. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," mentions a reviewer at Keystone State Park about their summer visit.
Bouldering and rock climbing: Some parks feature natural formations for climbing enthusiasts. "This was a very fun place! There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! And even a few smaller caves to explore!" shares a visitor at Laurel Hill State Park.
Biking trails: The Great Allegheny Passage runs through multiple camping areas. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," writes a camper from Ohiopyle State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate room between sites. "We have a wonderful, big electric and water site. The sites are pretty spread out and spacious, so you have pretty decent privacy," notes a visitor at Raccoon Creek State Park Campground.
Year-round availability: Some locations remain open through winter. "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," reports a camper from Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Mountain views: Elevated campgrounds offer scenic vistas. "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond," shares a visitor at Mountain Top Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and amenities receive positive mentions. "Very peaceful and friendly place, bathhouse are extremely clean," states a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA guest.
Proximity to attractions: Locations offer convenient access to regional sites. "We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities!" explains a visitor to Ohiopyle State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many parks have limited winter availability. "The pool looked very well maintained. The campground was really nice and really empty in November when we were there. In the summer I bet this place is packed," notes a camper about Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA.
Terrain considerations: Some sites present leveling challenges. "Follow the signs to the campground NOT the GPS in order to avoid some narrow and sharp turn roads. The sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable," cautions a visitor at Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA.
Laundry facilities: Several campgrounds offer washing machines. "Laundry facilities are the best we have encountered. Big machines and dryers making life easier and less time spent doing laundry," mentions a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA camper.
Bathroom quality varies: Condition of restroom facilities differs between locations. "The bathrooms and all the bathhouses badly need updating. The paint is peeling, they smell like mildew and the siding is rotting on them. They are clean but the creepy and gross factor are too much," explains an Ohiopyle visitor.
Limited supplies: Most locations have minimal stores. "It is in the middle of nowhere, but depending on where you wanna go it's either 15-30min drive. Greens burg is where you'll find all your needs like grocery stores, the mall, a few wines yards etc.," notes a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA camper.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Some parks offer organized events for kids. "Every week they organizes different themes for bingo, and other games. They also have Sunday pancake days," shares a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA visitor.
Swimming options: Multiple parks feature lakes with designated swim areas. "A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun. The hiking trails are in excellent condition and the park keeps them clear of fallen debris," reports a camper from Raccoon Creek State Park.
Playground availability: Check for play areas when booking with children. "There is no playground or activities for children. There is a very very large open field right smack dab in the middle of the campground for any kind of activities you can come up with if you brought those activities with you," notes a visitor at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Budget-friendly options: State parks typically offer lower rates than private campgrounds. "Small campground in four loops with a variety of sites ranging from tent-only, 30-amp electric, 50-amp electric, and 30/50-amp electric, along with eight camper cabins," explains a visitor about Laurel Hill State Park's options.
Family-friendly environment: Many parks prioritize quiet hours. "Campground isn't very nice. Has a big beach on the lake and playground," mentions a Keystone State Park camper, highlighting mixed experiences.
Tips from RVers
Access routes: Mountain roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in," advises a Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run visitor.
Hookup limitations: Grey water disposal options vary by site. "We had a full hookup site. Spacing between spots was not cramped at all. The central bathroom, pay shower, and laundry room had ac, a couch and were quite clean," reports a Mountain Top Campground visitor.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Very steep narrow roads to access campground and sites, sites not level and noisy, next to highway," warns a Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA reviewer.
Campground layout: Consider distance to amenities when booking. "We stayed at site 43 in the Hillside Loop because we brought our 2 large dogs. Site was very private and relatively flat," notes a Keystone State Park camper.
Year-round accommodations: Some locations offer heated cabins in winter. "Very quiet and quiet mornings. We're staying in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots," explains a Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA visitor.
