Tent camping sites near Oakmont, Pennsylvania concentrate in two main areas: the riverside locations along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail and the mountainous regions of the Laurel Highlands. Seasonal variations affect accessibility, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during daytime and potential storms requiring proper shelter preparation. Camping in this region provides direct access to over 150 miles of connected trails through western Pennsylvania's river valleys and mountain ridgelines.
What to do
Paddle the Youghiogheny River: Campsites at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground offer river access just steps from tent sites. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes camper Shari G.
Explore historic sites: Several campsites sit near abandoned structures and historic locations. At Mountain View Camps, campers can "explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," according to Richard C.
Visit night skies viewing spots: Camping at higher elevations in the Laurel Highlands provides stargazing opportunities away from Pittsburgh's light pollution. The tree cover at most sites limits some visibility, but finding small clearings rewards patient observers.
What campers like
Well-maintained trail access: The GAP Trail camping areas receive regular maintenance from volunteer groups. At Dravo's Landing Campground, "The local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go," reports Shari G., making it convenient for tired cyclists.
Spacious camping areas: Most primitive sites offer ample room for groups. Sarah Q. noted about Dravo's Landing: "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
Wildlife encounters: The region supports diverse animal populations visible from campsites. At Laurel Ridge State Park Campground, Brian S. mentions the natural soundtrack: "This is a beautiful park with several dramatic overlooks out over valleys to the east."
What you should know
Water availability concerns: Many campsites have unreliable or untested water sources. At Round Bottom Camping Area, a reviewer noted the well "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."
Train noise disruptions: Railway lines parallel many camping areas along the GAP Trail, creating noise challenges. Multiple reviews mention this issue, recommending "bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep!"
Food security requirements: Wildlife actively seeks out improperly stored provisions. At The GAP Trail Campground - Bikers Only, campers need to use proper storage containers as nearby wildlife is habituated to seeking food from campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shelters: Adirondack-style lean-tos provide protection during sudden weather changes. Dave V. shares about Round Bottom: "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."
Consider trail-adjacent sites for easier access: Families with young children benefit from sites requiring minimal hiking. Lauren C. describes Dravo's Landing as a "Fun camp spot of the Gap trail" that requires only minimal walking from parking areas.
Pack insect protection: The riverside locations experience significant mosquito activity during summer months. Proper repellent and clothing coverage prevents discomfort, especially for children who may be more sensitive to bites.
Tips from RVers
Limited access for larger vehicles: Most tent camping areas near Oakmont restrict vehicle sizes or require parking in designated lots. Christopher M. described Indian Creek Camplands as having "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," making small trailers possible but challenging.
Alternative cannabis-friendly option: For campers seeking specialty accommodations, there's a unique option. The Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers a "cannabis friendly campground that overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains," according to Ashley F., though standard RV hookups aren't available.
Consider weekday visits: Traffic significantly decreases midweek on both roads and trails. One camper noted after visiting during a weekday: "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."
