Murrysville, Pennsylvania sits at the western edge of the Laurel Highlands region, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The area receives approximately 41 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush forests and abundant water features throughout nearby campgrounds. Most campsites near Murrysville require reservations at least two weeks in advance during peak summer season, with holiday weekends often booking up 3-4 months ahead.
What to do
Fishing at Mirror Lake: This family-friendly campground features a stocked fishing pond perfect for beginners. "We were lucky enough to get a full-hookup site right on the lake. Quiet, peaceful, everything you want on a spring trip," notes one visitor to Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing. The lake contains bass, bluegill and trout, with no fishing license required for registered campers.
Hiking at Ohiopyle: The Ferncliff Trail offers a 1.5-mile loop with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for most hikers. "There is a multitude of fun activities to do in the area. I feel fortunate to live only about 2 hours from this beautiful place, with the Montour biking/hiking trail running right through it," shares a visitor to Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park. The trail system connects directly to several campsites.
Boating at Laurel Hill: Paddling opportunities abound with kayak rentals available for $15 per hour. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," mentions a camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground. The lake permits electric motors only, maintaining a quiet atmosphere for paddlers.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent praise at several campgrounds. "The campsite and bathrooms were clean when we arrived and when we left. The site numbering is a bit wonky on the dog loop so make sure you look at your map before you start driving the loops," advises a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Most bathhouses offer hot showers and flush toilets.
Friendly staff: Personal touches make a difference at family-owned properties. "Owners are great, let us in weekend before to look at campground being our first time there. Found a couple spots our camper would fit in," reports a camper at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing. Staff at smaller campgrounds often provide personalized assistance with site selection.
Cannabis-friendly options: For those seeking alternative glamping in Murrysville, Pennsylvania area, specialized accommodations exist. "This is a cannabis friendly campground that overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains. One yurt with a bed is offered. Please no alcohol," notes a reviewer at Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm. Friday night activities include specialized yoga sessions at 7pm.
What you should know
Site characteristics: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds, affecting site quality. "We chose site 102 because it looked decent in the picture and seemed a little apart and more private than other areas. Unfortunately, it was not great for tent camping as there wasn't really a spot to set up our 4-person tent," reports a camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Research site-specific photos before booking.
Seasonal limitations: Off-season camping brings unique challenges. "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 by using heat tape on the spigots and leaving lots of information at the office," notes a winter visitor to The Blue Canoe RV Resort. Only select campgrounds maintain water service year-round.
Loop selection matters: Campground sections offer distinctly different experiences. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy," warns a camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Study campground maps to select appropriate loops.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple swimming options cater to different preferences. "Great for families to get away. Quiet and scenic, great trails. Close to lake and fishing," shares a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Most swimming beaches operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with no lifeguards present.
Entertainment options: Structured activities keep children engaged throughout the day. "They have activities on weekends. Like the bingo here. Keystone Lake close to campground to go boating. Short drive to Smicksburg to shop," mentions a camper at Silver Canoe Campground. Weekend programming typically runs May through September.
Playground access: Select sites offer proximity to play areas. "My family stayed in one of the cabins while friends were in their campers. The cabin was great, very clean and cozy. The campgrounds are very nice they have a pool as well as a community building and camp store. We had 8 kids and 8 adults who all had a blast playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc," reports a family at Silver Canoe Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Hookup layouts affect setup requirements. "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 an RVer at Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Extension cords rated for 30-amp service are recommended.
Site leveling: Terrain challenges affect stabilization efforts. "All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not. All sites are wooded but some have more separation than others. Our site backed up to the creek but surprisingly, there was not a lot of water flowing in the spring," notes an RVer at Laurel Hill State Park Campground. Bring leveling blocks for uneven sites.
Utility logistics: Water availability varies by season and site. "Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids. Staff make multiple rounds, picks up your trash and delivers your purchased firewood. Personally takes you to you site and helps you back in/pull in," shares a visitor at Fox Den Acres Campground. Most full-hookup sites offer 30/50-amp service and water connections.
