Camping cabins near Oakmont, Pennsylvania sit in the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania about 15 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. Most cabins in this area are positioned at elevations between 1,000-1,400 feet, providing forest or valley views. The camping season typically runs April through October with some locations open year-round, and overnight temperatures can drop significantly in spring and fall.
What to do
Hiking at McConnells Mill State Park: Located 30 miles northwest of Oakmont, paths range from easy to challenging with rocky terrain. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," noted a visitor at Breakneck Campground.
Fishing at Keystone State Park: The park's lake offers good fishing opportunities about 35 miles east of Oakmont. "Great place to spend the weekend... There's plenty to do in surrounding areas from Ft Ligonier to the shops in the town," writes a camper at Keystone State Park Campground.
Mountain biking near Moraine State Park: Trails for various skill levels wind through the area surrounding Bear Run Campground. A guest mentioned, "Every weekend there are activities, there is a heated pool and Friday night Bingo. A great place with even better people!"
What campers like
Peaceful mountain settings: Many cabins sit on higher terrain with valley views. "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond," wrote a visitor at Mountain Top Campground.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Campgrounds organize regular activities for all ages. At Indian Brave Campground, a camper shared: "They have an Olympic sized swimming pool, nature trails, playground, basketball court, recreation hall and walking distance to harmony and all the live music and nightlife that Harmony and Zelienople have to offer."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools or lake access. "A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun. The hiking trails are in excellent condition and the park keeps them clear of fallen debris," wrote a visitor about Raccoon Creek State Park.
What you should know
Shower facilities vary significantly: Some campgrounds charge for showers or have limited hot water. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, a visitor noted: "Nice campground with lots of sites. Sitting in a valley the site go up the hillside. Good amenities, pool and bathroom/showers."
Seasonal availability: Most cabin accommodations close between late October and early April. Smith Grove offers cabins with electric hookups from spring through fall.
Reservation requirements: Most locations require advance booking, particularly on summer weekends and holidays. At Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, a visitor advised: "We stayed in the tent loop at the back of the campground. The area is not wooded at all and most sites look right into the sites next to them. If you are like me and crave privacy, avoid."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment for kids: Some campgrounds lack dedicated playgrounds. "There is no playground or activities for children. I understand they have blue grass bands that come and play in the warmer weather and a large campsite fire, but since we were there at the beginning of Fall weather, there weren't any scheduled bands or fires."
Choose sites strategically: At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, a camper recommended: "If you HAVE KIDS young enough to have to keep an eye on the kabins and spots facing the pillow ARE PRIME (kids wait for it to blow up every morning), play ground, and pool all the activities are around there as well."
Check beach and swimming facilities: Water activities provide key entertainment for children. A camper at Ohiopyle State Park shared: "The park is gorgeous with a large lake and designated swimming area. Place attracts a lot of people in the summer as its basically in the Pittsburgh suburbs along a major road artery."
Tips from RVers
Consider terrain challenges: Many campgrounds in this hilly region have uneven sites. "If you are Overlanding like us just follow the map. Great scenic routes and close to the spot you want to see in Pittsburgh," advised an RVer at Mountain Top Campground.
Verify hookup options: Water and electric connections vary between cabins and RV sites. "Sites 41-48 are the best view at sunset. I had a full hookup site. Spacing between spots was not cramped at all," noted a visitor about Mountain Top Campground.
Check access for larger vehicles: Some campground roads are narrow or steep. "The drive up was not worth it. You drive up a long, steep, windy road to the campgrounds," reported one RV camper at Raccoon Creek State Park.
