North Huntingdon sits in the Laurel Highlands region of western Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The area's hilly terrain creates natural wooded camping areas with a temperate climate that averages 39 inches of rainfall annually. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through October, with limited year-round options for luxury glamping experiences.
What to do
Water recreation at Fox Den Acres: Located just 25 minutes from North Huntingdon, this campground offers fishing in a stocked pond where success rates are remarkably high. "We did watch kids fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!! So much fun for them," notes a visitor at Fox Den Acres Campground.
Hiking trails at Laurel Hill: The park maintains numerous trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to more challenging woodland routes. "There is a playground, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area at the end of one of the loops. Bike and boat rentals are available in the summer season," according to a camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Star gazing opportunities: Several campgrounds in the region offer designated areas for night sky viewing. "They have a star gazing platform," mentions a camper about Benner's Meadow Run, though they note it "leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathhouses and common areas. "Bathrooms and showers were convenient and clean," notes a reviewer at Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
Multiple swimming options: Many campgrounds provide both pool and natural water swimming. "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk. Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," comments a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park.
Spacious tent sites: Tent campers appreciate the size and privacy of some sites. "Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away. Firewood available for purchase," reports a tent camper at Fox Den Acres.
What you should know
Site variations and terrain challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain that can affect your camping experience. "Most of the primitive sites were graveled at some point in the past, but they've done a good job of fixing that," explains a camper at Fox Den Acres.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely across the region. "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon," notes a visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Seasonal scheduling: Most glamping in North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania area operates on limited schedules. "The pool was closed but that just made want to come back in the summer," mentions a camper at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, located about an hour from North Huntingdon.
Weather considerations: The region can experience significant rainfall. "We had a big night of rain and with the wind it dried up pretty quickly," reports a camper at Tomlinson Run.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near recreation areas: For families with children, proximity to playgrounds and activities matters. "They accommodate tents and RVs, and offer cabins. The staff is helpful and friendly, and so are most of the campers. They offer a game room, pool, mini golf, a full camp store, firewood, etc.," reports a visitor to Benner's Meadow Run.
Look for scheduled activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events throughout the week. "They provide activities almost every evening, making sure everything age range is catered to throughout the week," notes a Fox Den Acres camper.
Consider luxury glamping options: For families new to outdoor experiences, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run offers enhanced amenities. "4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids & the original 2 big water slides in woods, had 25 people in group & everyone had a blast, great prices for RV sites, food is cheap & really good," shares a satisfied family.
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling before booking: Many RV sites in the region present leveling challenges. "The site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire," warns a camper about Benner's Meadow Run.
Consider utility access: Placement of hookups can affect your setup. "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 an RVer at Laurel Hill State Park.
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds limit water access seasonally. "Have to go up to entrance as the water spouts are still shut off," reports a Tomlinson Run camper during shoulder season.
