The Laurel Highlands area of western Pennsylvania lies approximately 40 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,800 feet. Camping options near Nottingham provide access to rivers, forested hills, and state parks with multiple waterways. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall bring cooler temperatures ideal for hiking.
What to do
Water activities on the Youghiogheny River: Campers staying at Dravo's Landing Campground can enjoy direct river access. "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail. There were a few shelters, nice campsite," notes lauren C.
Nighttime wildlife watching: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe nocturnal animals in their natural environment. Secure food properly as wildlife is active. "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" warns Sarah Q. from Dravo's Landing.
Hiking with dogs: Multiple dog-friendly trails connect to campgrounds throughout the area. The Palomino Loop at Raccoon Creek State Park Campground offers winter hiking opportunities. "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop," shares Jay R.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campers appreciate tent-specific areas that offer privacy. "I had the most wonderful time on my first tent camping at Raccoon Creek. We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night. There were other campers around but we rarely noticed them," reports Mariana N.
Convenient bike-in access: Cyclists appreciate the Blue Canoe RV Resort (formerly Uniontown KOA) for its accessibility to major trails. "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground... for through riders on the trail there is a special place to camp, close to the west-bound entrance," explains Shari G.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities. "The pool & concession stand, beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites, modern hookups, good shower/laundry facilities, nice fire rings with built in grills, trash pickup service," reports Heath T. about Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Some facilities have limited availability in off-season months. "We stayed in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. Friendly and cozy spot. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots and leaving lots of information at the office," notes Zachary H. about Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Site topography challenges: Many campgrounds in this region feature hilly terrain that can affect site levelness. At Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA, "A dozen or so of the sites are not level, not only that but they are narrow and where you sit is a slope making it very uncomfortable," cautions Kevin D.
Trail access and terrain: Some trails from campgrounds to water features are steep and may be challenging. At Raccoon Creek State Park, "There is a trail that leads down from the tent loop to the beach which is cool but very very steep (not for too young or old)," explains Matt R.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near recreational facilities for convenience with children. At Fox Den Acres Campground, "They provide activities almost every evening, making sure every age range is catered to throughout the week," notes Heather H.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing ponds where success rates are high for young anglers. "We did watch kids fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!! So much fun for them," Patience W. observed at Fox Den Acres.
Campground events: Check schedule of activities when booking at family-oriented sites. "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," notes Ashley F. about Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm, one of the area's more unusual dog-friendly campgrounds near Nottingham.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped sites requiring extra equipment for leveling. "Very steep narrow roads to access campground and sites..sites not level and noisy, next to highway," warns Chris H. about Washington-Pittsburgh SW KOA.
Utility reliability: Check water and electric hookup status when booking, especially in shoulder seasons. At Kentuck Campground in Ohiopyle State Park, one camper noted, "The water hookups weren't working at the time, but we were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank."
Highway noise: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Nottingham are convenient to interstates but may experience traffic noise. At Fox Den Acres, one reviewer noted, "Quiet in the camp but lots of highway noise at night if the breeze is just right."
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