Campsites near Meyersdale, Pennsylvania offer diverse camping opportunities within the cooler mountain elevations of western Maryland and Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands. Located between 1,500 and 2,800 feet elevation, this region typically experiences temperatures 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F. The area features distinctive hemlock forests and mountain streams that create unique microclimates for camping.
What to do
Hiking trails with marked junctions: New Germany State Park maintains well-signed hiking trails with maps posted at every intersection. "Trails are very nicely kept and clear with maps at every intersection so getting lost is very unlikely," notes a visitor to New Germany State Park. The park features old-growth hemlock forests with marked hiking routes suitable for all skill levels.
Watercraft rentals: Multiple parks offer affordable boat rentals for exploring local lakes. At New Germany State Park, "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," reports a camper. Rental options typically include kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards available from May through September.
Gap trail access: Camping options near the Great Allegheny Passage provide direct trail connections for cyclists. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," shares a visitor to Ohiopyle State Park. Several campsites offer dedicated cyclist camping areas with quick trail access.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Campers consistently mention the generous site spacing in local campgrounds. "We are in Ash loop lot 22. Unfortunately yesterday a storm knocked out the power supply for the campground but otherwise great service," notes a camper at Rocky Gap State Park. Most established campgrounds feature forested sites with natural spacing between neighbors.
Less crowded alternatives: The region offers quieter alternatives to more popular destinations. "We loved this campground. It was quieter than Deep Creek with shaded good sized camp sites in the Hemlock loop where pets are allowed," shares a visitor about New Germany State Park. Several smaller parks provide similar recreational opportunities with fewer crowds.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more solitude, the area offers primitive sites with stream access. "I stayed at a primitive campsite with my dog and we found a site right on a beautiful stream. It was a good sized site with a nice fire circle. my favorite part was how private it was, each campsite was 50-100ft away from each other at least," reports a visitor to Savage River State Forest. These sites typically lack amenities but provide greater privacy.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal or no connectivity. "There is very little to no cell phone reception in the park, so combined with the lack of hookups, this is definitely an unplugged, 'connect with nature' type of camping experience," notes a visitor about New Germany State Park. Verizon typically has the best coverage, though still limited in many areas.
Road conditions vary widely: Some campground roads require careful navigation. "The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool!" comments a visitor to Pioneer Lakes RV Park. Roads to more remote campgrounds often feature steep grades and sharp curves.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require significant leveling. "The sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," explains a camper at Laurel Hill State Park. Bringing extra leveling blocks is advisable for RV campers throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer dedicated swimming areas with varying amenities. "The park has a small lake, a few trails, and two camping loops... There is a bathroom with a hot shower," shares a camper at New Germany State Park. Most lakes have designated swimming areas open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
Playground accessibility: When choosing a family site, consider distance to play areas. "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch. I really like that there are trails from the camp loops to the beach," notes a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park. Many campgrounds feature playgrounds near central bath houses or beach areas.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature centers with child-friendly activities. "For kids they have a small jungle gym and critter center," explains a camper at New Germany State Park. Programs typically run weekends during summer months with guided hikes and wildlife presentations.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have size restrictions and challenging access roads. "Stayed in a tent site, but had friends that brought their 5th wheel camper," reports a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park. RVers should check specific loop restrictions as many campgrounds limit larger rigs to specific sections.
Hookup locations: Electric post placement may require extensions at some campgrounds. "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 a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park. Bring extra-length power cords and water hoses for flexibility.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer on-site dump stations. At Hickory Hollow Campground, visitors appreciate that "all sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not." Check ahead whether dumping facilities are available on-site or nearby.
