Tent campsites near Penn Run, Pennsylvania sit within the Laurel Highlands region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Most primitive camping areas remain open from April through November, with closures during winter months due to access limitations and weather conditions.
What to do
Explore local waterways: The Youghiogheny River provides camping options and recreational opportunities at Dravo's Landing Campground, where visitors can fish or paddle directly from camp. "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," notes camper Shari G.
Visit historic sites: The area contains numerous historical landmarks within short distances of camping areas. Lauren C. mentions that Dravo's Landing is "close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire."
Mountain biking: Local forest trails offer moderate to difficult biking terrain with established routes. Richard C. from Mountain View Camps recommends to "hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn."
Wildlife viewing: State game lands surrounding Penn Run provide opportunities for animal observation. Dawn and dusk offer the best viewing windows, with deer, turkey, and various bird species commonly spotted.
What campers like
Creek access: Waterfront campsites rank highly among visitor preferences. Sarah A. notes that at Long Acres on Clover Creek, "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality."
Stargazing conditions: Limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "The stars are so bright out here," reports Sarah A., making astronomy activities popular at primitive sites throughout the region.
Trail connectivity: Many campgrounds serve as access points to larger trail networks. "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," shares Sarah Q.
Boat-in camping options: Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground provides unique water-access camping. "This campground is accessed by boat only. But it has a maintenance road and is patrolled by college kids with summer jobs," explains John H.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple tent camping areas near railroad tracks experience periodic noise disruption. One camper at The GAP Trail Campground advises, "With all this luxury comes an active train too...that's the nature of this trail. Bring those earplugs for a good night's sleep!"
Wildlife precautions: 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!" warns Sarah Q. about camping at Dravo's Landing.
Water treatment requirements: Most primitive campgrounds require water filtration or treatment. Consider carrying portable filtration systems as many tent sites lack reliable potable water sources.
Limited cell reception: Signal strength varies significantly throughout the region. Many primitive tent sites have minimal or no service, so download maps and information before arriving.
Reservation requirements: Several tent campsites fill quickly during peak seasons. Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground experiences high demand for certain sites, with Kristen H. noting "the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies widely between camping areas. Ashleigh M. at Laurel Ridge State Park Campground mentions, "The bathhouse could use a renovation. It felt old and kind of dirty."
Site spacing: Select campgrounds with adequate distance between sites for privacy and noise control. Sarah Q. notes at 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."
Sound management: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby college students or other groups. According to Kristen H., at Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, "Some weekend get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down."
Short hiking options: Family-friendly trails under 2 miles can be found near most established campgrounds. Look for loop trails rather than out-and-back options for variety and engagement with younger hikers.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Penn Run accommodate only smaller RVs or vans under 25 feet. Large motorhomes and fifth wheels have limited options.
Hookup availability: Electric connections exist at select locations but water and sewer hookups remain rare. Mountain View Camps offers electric hookups but lacks sewer or water connections at individual sites.
Primitive RV camping: Some tent-focused areas permit small RVs with advance permission. These sites typically lack amenities but provide more natural settings.
