Tent and RV camping within a 30-mile radius of New Kensington offers options ranging from basic primitive sites to full-service campgrounds. The region's rolling hills and river valleys create varied terrain that affects site levelness and accessibility. Most campgrounds in the area are situated between 900-1,200 feet elevation, with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than downtown Pittsburgh during summer months.
What to do
Fishing access for all skill levels: At Crooked Creek Lake, the manmade lake maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers provides multiple fishing opportunities. "The lake is great for kayaking or small boats. We fish and kayak the creek opposite the lake," notes Jennifer P. The lake features designated fishing areas along the shoreline.
Take advantage of bike-friendly trails: Dravo's Landing Campground connects directly to the Great Allegheny Passage trail. "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail," explains Lauren C. Located 26 miles from Pittsburgh's Three Rivers Park, it makes a good starting point for bikers.
Playground facilities for kids: Fox Den Acres offers multiple play areas throughout the grounds. "This is a large campground with play grounds, well maintained pool and grounds, fishing, party pavilions, and store," reports Msmetoo48 S. Many sites have playground equipment visible from camping spots for easier supervision.
What campers like
Historic sites and educational opportunities: Ohiopyle State Park Campground offers access to significant regional landmarks. "The visitors center at Keystone was beautiful and informative of the local history which was very interesting how the park first came about," shares Doreen M., highlighting the educational aspects available to campers.
Quiet atmosphere despite proximity to urban areas: Smith Grove provides a peaceful environment while remaining close to larger towns. "We love staying here when we visit family in Butler it's a quiet family run park. It is very affordable and bathrooms are clean," reports Deborah P. The campground maintains quiet hours and has well-spaced sites.
Affordable campsite rates: Many campers appreciate the reasonable pricing at local campgrounds. "Wonderful campground. They provide activities almost every evening, making sure everything age range is catered to throughout the week," notes Heather H. about Fox Den Acres, where sites start at approximately $30 per night for tent camping.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: Riverside campgrounds often experience train noise throughout the night. At Dravo's Landing, Shari G. advises, "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 if you hope to sleep!"
Water availability varies by location: Many campgrounds have limited water hookup options or seasonal restrictions. "Pull out and make a left and its about 500' down road on left by pavilion. Pull into the second drive to be on the correct side. Be sure to get code for lock on sewer and water. Kept locked up from non campers," explains Keith about accessing Crooked Creek Lake's facilities.
Seasonal maintenance issues: Some state park facilities receive limited maintenance funding. At Kentuck Campground in Ohiopyle State Park, Nora M. notes, "The restroom and all the bathhouses badly need updating. The paint is peeling, they smell like mildew and the siding is rotting on them. They are clean but the creepy and gross factor are too much."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near amenities: At Keystone State Park Campground, family-friendly features include dedicated swimming areas and fishing spots. "Can be crowded during summer times but always clean and well maintained. Everybody is very friendly and great place to fish with young children," advises Tom C.
Pack entertainment for all weather conditions: Weather in western Pennsylvania can change quickly. "This campground is not bad but is not great there is running toilets and hot showers but not very well maintained if you have a large trailer may run to some problems," comments Imane about Bush Recreation Area, suggesting families bring indoor activities.
Secure food properly overnight: Wildlife encounters are common at area campgrounds. "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" warns Sarah Q. about Dravo's Landing. Many sites recommend hanging food or storing it in sealed containers away from sleeping areas.
Tips from RVers
Challenging road access to hilltop sites: Mountain Top Campground offers panoramic views but requires careful navigation. "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in. If you are Overlanding like us just follow the map," advises Corey L.
Water management considerations: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. James B. notes about Mountain Top Campground: "Amazing views at this mountain top campsite... water... grey water dump on most sites... no black sewer hookup (does have dump station and honey wagon)." RVers should arrive with full freshwater tanks and empty waste tanks.
Site leveling challenges: The hilly terrain affects many campgrounds in the region. "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites," shares Patience W. about Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA. RVers should pack extra leveling blocks for the uneven terrain common at the best places to camp near New Kensington.
