Tent campsites near Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania span across multiple state forests and trail systems. Most primitive sites sit 800-1200 feet above sea level along river corridors that experience hot, humid summers and cold winters with moderate snowfall. Fall camping typically runs from mid-September through early November when nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F, requiring appropriate cold-weather gear.
What to do
River activities at trailside sites: Access the Youghiogheny River directly from several GAP trail campsites for swimming, fishing, and paddling. At Dravo's Landing Campground, campers can enjoy water recreation with easy river access. "There were a few shelters, nice campsite. It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," notes Lauren C.
Hiking forest preserves: Multiple trails near primitive campsites connect to longer regional trail networks. The Danner Primitive Campground offers hiking paths through mature forests. "This is a hike in or paddle in only campground. The shortest distance is about 2 miles from the trailhead at the Kennerdell bridge, but there are other trailheads throughout the tract also," says Casey L.
Mountain biking accessible tracks: Several camping areas connect to mountain bike trails through the surrounding forests. Richard C. from Mountain View Camps recommends: "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
What campers like
Well-maintained shelters: The Adirondack-style shelters at many GAP trail sites provide protection during unexpected rain. Dave V. appreciates Round Bottom Camping Area: "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain."
Ample tent space: Most primitive sites feature cleared, level ground even when designated pads are occupied. "There is plenty of grassy area for scores of tents in this area. So if you are not fortunate enough to secure one of the two Shelters or tent pads, you can still set up a tent in the nicely mowed areas, which are still level," a camper reports about Round Bottom.
Privacy between sites: Many camping areas provide tree cover and spacing between sites. At Laurel Ridge State Park Campground, Ashleigh M. found "a beautiful wooded park offering lots of trees for privacy. I wish I had more time to explore the park before moving on."
What you should know
Wildlife precautions: Local wildlife may investigate unsecured food overnight at primitive campsites. Sarah Q. warns about The GAP Trail Campground: "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Water availability concerns: Many sites have questionable water sources requiring filtration or treatment. Shari G. notes about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground: "The bathrooms are the standard forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough, but the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing."
Train noise disruptions: Railroad tracks parallel many camping areas, creating periodic noise disturbances. "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up -- so bring good earplugs!" advises a regular GAP trail camper.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access options: For families with younger children, choose drive-in sites rather than hike-in locations. Christopher M. from Indian Creek Camplands notes: "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Ghost story opportunities: Several campsites near Natrona Heights feature historic sites perfect for family storytelling. Lauren C. mentions that Dravo's Landing is "close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire."
Wildlife viewing potential: Multiple camping areas offer wildlife viewing opportunities for children. At Mountain View Camps, campers report occasional sightings of rare wildlife, including "an albino fawn" according to one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent campsites near Natrona Heights lack RV-specific amenities. Small trailers under 20 feet can access some locations, but Brian S. notes that Laurel Ridge State Park is primarily a "pack-it-in-pack-it-out camping experience" with minimal amenities.
Seasonal road conditions: Access roads to primitive campsites deteriorate during wet seasons, making RV access challenging. Sites like Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground are explicitly designed for hikers and cyclists, not vehicle access.
Alternative accommodations: Some locations offer cabins as alternatives to tent or RV camping. Lake Eron Park provides basic cabin accommodations with five total sites available for visitors seeking more structural protection than tent camping provides.
