Tent camping near New Florence, Pennsylvania centers around the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail which follows former rail lines through the Laurel Highlands region. This rural area sits at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet with moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Weather conditions can change rapidly with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
River access opportunities: The Youghiogheny River runs alongside many campsites near the GAP Trail, making water activities easily accessible. At Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run, "it is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking," notes one camper who found the proximity convenient when the hand pump produced discolored water.
Historical exploration: The region contains numerous historical sites connected to Pennsylvania's industrial past. Near Maple Festival Park, campers can explore local history. As one visitor notes, "this small homestead, right in the middle of a residential block, hosts the annual March tradition of the Maple festival, and has been crowning 'Maple Queens' for 75 years!"
Mountain biking: The surrounding state game lands offer various trail options beyond the GAP Trail. At Mountain View Camps, visitors can "hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," according to a recent camper review.
What campers like
Train watching opportunities: While train noise is mentioned as a downside in some reviews, train enthusiasts appreciate the regular traffic. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, one camper advises, "bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep," while noting that train watching during daytime hours can be enjoyable from the campground's riverside location.
Spacious tent areas: Many campgrounds offer generous space even during busy periods. A camper at Dravo's Landing Campground notes, "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
Wildlife viewing: The wooded areas surrounding New Florence provide opportunities to spot local fauna. According to a visitor at Mountain View Camps, the location offers chances to "explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," suggesting the area supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Many campgrounds along the GAP Trail have unreliable water sources. At Round Bottom Camping Area, "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 much of the GAP Trail, creating significant noise at night. A camper at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground explains, "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up."
Food storage requirements: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. A camper at Dravo's Landing warns, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" suggesting proper food storage is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Quieter locations: For families seeking less train noise, consider camping locations set back from the river. Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground offers boat-access camping where "most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down," according to one camper who found the site appropriate for family trips despite occasional college groups.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between locations. A visitor to Maple Festival Park notes, "Bathrooms are just as quirky but clean and functional with warm showers and flush toilets," making this location potentially more suitable for families with younger children.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with nearby attractions. A camper at The GAP Trail Campground describes it as "More like a Spa than a Campground!" with "spacious and lush lawn" providing room for family games and activities.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Few campgrounds near New Florence offer comprehensive RV facilities. Indian Creek Camplands Inc provides some RV spaces but campers note they're "not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," suggesting smaller rigs would fare better than large motorhomes.
Access challenges: Many campgrounds along the GAP Trail are walk-in or bike-in only, making them inaccessible to RVs. Those with smaller trailers or pop-ups should check road conditions before attempting access, especially after rain when unpaved roads can become problematic.
