Camping options near New Florence, Pennsylvania cluster around the Laurel Highlands region at elevations between 1,200-2,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows regularly below freezing. State parks and private campgrounds in this region typically operate from mid-April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Lake activities: Explore Yellow Creek State Park's 700-acre lake with rentable watercraft. "We rented a pontoon boat for one afternoon and explored the lake, which was awesome. I will say the 'beach area' we visited was less than clean and quite small," notes Alyssa H.
Hiking and biking: Visit Laurel Hill State Park Campground for recreational trails. "We enjoyed the easy walking lake trail with the kids because it was wide and flat," explains Erik E. The park provides access to the Laurel Highlands Trail System with over 70 miles of connected pathways.
Historical sites: Explore nearby Ligonier with access from several campgrounds. Luke K. mentions, "We've stayed here multiple times throughout several summers. There's plenty to do in surrounding areas from Ft Ligonier to the shops in the town."
What campers like
Private sites: Choose Keystone State Park Campground for secluded camping options. "The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods. There are some very secluded sites," reports Matt R., distinguishing between the two camping areas within the park.
Creek access: Stay at Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing to enjoy the stream. "Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek," shares Mathew H., highlighting the specific site benefits for water-loving campers.
Fishing opportunities: Consider Shawnee State Park for anglers. Noah R. notes that fishing conditions can vary: "Very clean and helpful camp. Too bad the fishing isn't the best at yellow creek national park."
What you should know
Site selection: Research carefully at Shawnee State Park Campground before booking. "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked," advises Brittany V.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate April to October. Lee D. reports, "The season was set to open the day after we left so aside from hiking, we could not avail ourselves of any of the activities."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies by location. At Laurel Hill, "Bathhouse was basic and dated, but reasonably clean. Did not use the shower," while Hickory Hollow campers praise "bathrooms were well kept and the laundry was convenient with a slop sink for dishes."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Choose Crooked Run Campground for water recreation. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids," explains Jackie W.
Playgrounds and activities: Select campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "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 Austin B. about his family's experience.
Unique accommodations: Try glamping near New Florence, Pennsylvania for families wanting comfort. Jessica D. describes the covered wagons at one campground: "The covered wagon sites (there are 2) are isolated in their own clearing within the trees next to the lake. The other wagon wasn't booked so we had a huge double site to ourselves."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check utility placement at Kentuck Campground before arrival. "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 Erik E.
Site levelness: Request specific sites when booking. Brittany V. explains, "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!"
Pull-through availability: Look for designated sites if you have a larger rig. "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads," notes Brandy Q., mentioning the importance of flat surfaces for RV camping.
