The Laurel Highlands region surrounding New Florence, Pennsylvania sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the seasons. Spring temperatures often fluctuate 30 degrees between day and night, requiring campers to prepare for both warm days and potentially freezing nights. Many rv parks near New Florence operate seasonally with most facilities closing between late October and mid-April due to harsh mountain winters.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The fishing ponds at Pioneer Lakes RV Park are stocked regularly, making them ideal for casual anglers. "We stayed here to go to the flight 93 memorial so we didn't do much at the campground except fish caught a few nice bass," notes one visitor.
Hiking nearby: At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, visitors can access several trails within the property, including a stargazing platform with mountain views. According to a camper, "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform."
Community activities: Weekend events are common at campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer months. "Friendship Village held a farmers market on Saturday and had a HUGE community yard sale which we thought was very cool!" reports one camper about their experience at the Bedford location.
What campers like
Creek access: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing features a small creek where children often play. A visitor explains, "A lot of their sites are along a small creek which the kids play in and can float down. Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek."
Pool facilities: Many campgrounds maintain swimming pools that typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend. One camper at Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort mentioned, "The pool & concession stand, beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites, modern hookups, good shower/laundry facilities, nice fire rings with built-in grills."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campers consistently mention the welcoming environment for families with children. "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities. Tree shaded sites!" shared one visitor about their experience at Benner's Meadow Run.
What you should know
Road conditions: Mountain access roads can challenge larger vehicles, particularly in wet weather. "The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool!" notes one visitor about Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring preparation. According to a visitor at Nature's Getaway RV Park, "We got the pull through at the end of one loop so we could face the woods. The site wasn't so level, but we made it work."
Seasonal operations: Most facilities have limited shoulder season operations. While a few remain open year-round, many reduce services after October 15th. "This time, however, the campground has new owners. When I heard of this a few weeks before the sale was final, I told the new owners they had big shoes to fill! Well, they did it and more!" reported one return visitor at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking sites with children, request locations near play facilities. At Friendship Village Campground & RV Park, "There are 3 playgrounds all different and all well kept," according to a recent visitor.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds schedule weekend activities specifically for children. "We were there for Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad," shared a family who visited Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA.
Water features: Creeks and swimming areas provide natural entertainment for children. A family who stayed at Mirror Lake noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When possible, request specific site numbers based on your RV needs. At The Blue Canoe RV Resort (formerly Uniontown KOA), "Some river sites were small and very un level but was doable," according to a recent visitor.
Hookup variations: Electric service ranges from 30-amp to 50-amp throughout the region, with not all sites offering sewer connections. "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids. Staff make multiple rounds, picks up your trash and delivers your purchased firewood."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options are extremely limited near New Florence, with most RV parks closing completely. "Beautiful location! Excellent service, really nice owners that are very helpful and friendly. Clean and luxurious bathrooms and restrooms," noted a spring visitor at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA, one of the few year-round facilities in the region.
