Tent campsites near Oakdale, Pennsylvania concentrate along the Youghiogheny River corridor, where the region's Appalachian foothills create a moderately challenging terrain for hikers and cyclists. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Train traffic along the riverway presents a consistent ambient noise factor at most camping locations, with freight trains passing multiple times nightly.
What to do
River access activities: At Dravo's Landing Campground, the Youghiogheny River provides opportunities for swimming and water filtering. "We made friends with a few other folks who were stopping at Dravo during their bike trips along the GAP, and everyone appreciated the abundance of picnic tables, fire pits, lean-tos, and the nearby river," notes camper Sarah Q.
Nearby cemetery exploration: The historic Dravo Cemetery adjacent to some campsites offers cultural interest. "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," reports Lauren C. about her stay at Dravo's Landing.
Evening yoga sessions: At Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm, unique recreational activities include scheduled group events. "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," mentions Ashley F. in her review.
Tree farm tours: During non-holiday seasons, Pioneer Trails Tree Farm Campground offers campers a unique agricultural setting. "Camping in a tree farm has been cool! The trees were quite the entertaining experience for the kids," notes camper Andrew O.
What campers like
Adirondack shelters: The lean-to structures at multiple GAP Trail campsites provide weather protection. "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain," explains Dave V. at Round Bottom Camping Area.
Wide open spaces: Many tent sites offer ample room without crowding. "The spacious and lush lawn has lots of space for tents, but the winner is the covered seating, dining, and cooking area," notes Shari G. about The GAP Trail Campground.
Volunteer maintenance: Local organizations maintain several free camping areas. "This campsite is a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail, and a nice easy introduction to bikepacking camping for the east-bound. The camp is the special project of a very industrious group of scouts, and they have done a nice job," explains Shari G. about Dravo's Landing.
River proximity: The Youghiogheny provides both scenic value and practical water access. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes Shari G. about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Water sources require verification before arrival. "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. We grabbed water at the last town before the campground," advises Shari G. about Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground.
Train noise disruptions: Railway proximity affects sleep quality at riverside campsites. "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River. It is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had," warns Dave V.
Wildlife considerations: Proper food storage prevents animal encounters. "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" cautions Sarah Q. about her experience at Dravo's Landing.
Bathroom facilities vary: Toilet access and conditions fluctuate by location. "Usually the vault toilets along this trail are clean, maintained and stocked, but on this visit, piles of trash were inside likely from an overly busy weekend," notes Dave V. about Round Bottom Camping Area.
Tips for camping with families
Consider terrain variability: Some sites offer more level ground than others. "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," notes Christopher M. about Indian Creek Camplands.
Distance planning: Calculate realistic daily mileage when traveling with children. "At 26 miles from Three Rivers Park, this makes a great place to get your head around what it might be like to ride and camp the whole way to Washington D.C.," suggests Shari G.
Access to electricity: Recharging devices requires planning ahead. "Office to charge electronics and a campsite with firepit was great," mentions Frederick B. about Pioneer Trails Tree Farm.
Toilet location: Consider proximity to facilities when selecting sites. "Only wish toilet access was a little closer for the women. Nevertheless, we definitely recommend staying here," advises Andrew O. about Pioneer Trails.
Tips from RVers
Limited options for vehicles: Most sites require non-motorized access. "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run can only be accessed by the GAP Trail, which means on foot or bicycle, or paddlers on the Youghiogheny River," explains Dave V.
Mid-week availability: Timing affects campsite selection. "Bicycle traffic was fairly light during the week, so not only did you have the GAP Trail mostly to oneself, the camping areas were either sparsely filled or empty," notes Dave V.
Secluded alternatives: Some drive-in options exist beyond the trail corridor. "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," describes Christopher M. about Indian Creek Camplands.
