Kentuck Campground at Ohiopyle State Park sits at approximately 1,900 feet elevation in Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands region. The campground is nestled within a second-growth forest of maple, oak, and cherry trees, creating dense shade over most campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with higher humidity levels than surrounding lowlands.
What to do
Natural water slides access: Cucumber Falls is just a short drive from Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, offering a refreshing summer activity. "We've been camping here for years. They are family oriented and not looking for large/loud groups. They accommodate tents and RVs, and offer cabins," reports Mark E.
Star gazing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature designated viewing areas away from light pollution. "You can hike up a short trail for the sunset. Good tree arrangement for a hammock," notes Jessica D. about the covered wagon sites at Benner's Meadow Run.
Trail connectivity: The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail runs directly through The Blue Canoe RV Resort. "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground. The seasonal RVers and weekend warriors have long claimed their sites, but for through riders on the trail there is a special place to camp, close to the west-bound entrance," explains Shari G.
Water sports variety: For campers seeking lake-based activities instead of river recreation, Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run offers alternatives. "The boat ramp, slips and trailer storage made it an easy boating/camping vacation spot. Yough lake is small, but fun to explore. Good fishing," shares Kathy G.
What campers like
Site privacy levels: Many glamping accommodations near Ohiopyle offer varying levels of seclusion. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "All sites are gravel; most appeared level, but some did not. All sites are wooded but some have more separation than others," according to Lee D.
Bathroom facilities: "The bathrooms were awesome and kept very clean. Having firewood and ice at the front along with a small store was also a bonus," shares Natalee M. about Yough Lake Campground, noting conveniences that complement glamping experiences.
Seasonal attractions: Fall camping offers different experiences than summer visits. "We try to come every year for trick or treat! We've loved this one the most ever since we found it! Can't wait to be there in the fall!" mentions Payton R. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run.
Evening ambiance: The natural setting creates unique nighttime experiences. One camper at Laurel Hill noted: "Overall the dog loop was quite and at night we could hear the coyotes in the distance."
What you should know
Water level variations: River and lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting activities. "Unfortunately the lake was dried up - which the folx at the reservations site warned us about - so the campground was pretty meh without that," reports Kerrie K. about Yough Lake Campground.
Reservation communications: Road closures and maintenance issues can affect access. "No one - not either website or the woman whom I spoke to - mentioned that the main road to the campground from Ohiopyle was also closed due to a separate paving project," cautions Danielle V. about Kentuck Campground.
Campsite selection guidance: Site topography varies widely within the same campground. "We chose site 102 because it looked decent in the picture and seemed a little apart and more private than other areas. Unfortunately, it was not great for tent camping as there wasn't really a spot to set up our 4-person tent," shares Laura about Laurel Hill State Park.
Loop characteristics: Different camping loops offer distinct experiences. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy," advises Casey L. about Laurel Hill.
Tips for camping with families
Covered wagon glamping: Unique accommodation options expand beyond traditional tents and cabins. "We stayed in the covered wagon, which was pretty cool. The covered wagon sites (there are 2) are isolated in their own clearing within the trees next to the lake," explains Jessica D. about Benner's Meadow Run.
Swimming beach accessibility: Swallow Falls State Park Campground offers water play options for children. "I gave it a 5 star for many reasons. First the campground is clean and made us feel like we were in a forest not just a campground. The grounds had paths everywhere and were well kept. I didn't feel like I was walking in the dirt or through someone's campsite to get to the bathroom or the playground for the kids," writes Mike B.
Creek play areas: Some campsites feature child-friendly water access. "Site #5 is where We stayed and it was perfect for the small children to play in the creek behind us there was the perfect pathway down to the creek. Very quiet and family oriented," shares Nora M. about Tub Run.
Proximity to attractions: Many glamping options in Ohiopyle position families near diverse activities. "We had a wonderful camping experience here. We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Laurel Highlands region have uneven terrain. "New sites coming soon. The sites are spread out. Electricity at sites but no water or sewer. A new section will be opening later this season that will have elec and water," notes William B. about Coopers Rock State Forest.
Hookup placement considerations: "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 Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
RV size restrictions: Mountainous terrain limits access for larger rigs. "Just returned from our first weekend here. The new section is open and ready. Water and Electric Only. Dump station on the way out. 50amp - No issues. We had empty space on either side of us. New section is spaced out with a berm of earth in between alot of the sites," reports Josh W. about Coopers Rock.
Road quality warnings: Access routes to glamping in Ohiopyle may present challenges. "Tub Run Road is a rough (but pretty) ride to the campground. Once you hit the property, everything is well-maintained. Roads are easy to navigate and equipment all works well."
