Camping near Pittsburgh, PA, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.
What to do:
- Hiking: There are numerous trails in the area. Campers at Ohiopyle State Park rave about the hiking options, with one reviewer noting, "There is a lot of hiking nearby, most of which you need to drive to within the state park."
- Rafting: If you're feeling adventurous, try rafting on the Youghiogheny River. A visitor shared, "Stayed here one weekend and rafted down the Ohio Pyle river. Very convenient to the river and town."
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Raccoon Creek State Park, have great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, "The lake is lovely! The only downside is that the airport is pretty close so at times you can hear planes taking off."
What campers like:
- Natural Beauty: Campers appreciate the scenic views. At Coopers Rock State Forest, one reviewer said, "Can’t beat this park for beautiful trails and overlooks."
- Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment. A visitor at Raccoon Creek State Park noted, "Very quiet park this time of year."
- Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus. A camper at Laurel Hill State Park remarked, "The bathrooms are clean and it has great walking access to the beautiful beach and lake."
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Tomlinson Run State Park, have older facilities. A camper mentioned, "Facilities are older but well kept."
- Site Selection Matters: Choosing the right site is crucial. A visitor at Keystone State Park advised, "Sites are a little tight if you have a larger camper, but we fit perfect with our 24’er."
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run expressed frustration, saying, "Quiet time is NOT enforced."
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Laurel Hill State Park enjoyed, "The amenities and activities this campground had was amazing for keeping the kids busy!"
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on the little ones. A parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run noted, "Be prepared for an endless parade of golf carts during your stay."
- Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Breakneck Campground mentioned, "The facilities are nice and people are great."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Levels: Make sure your site is level. A reviewer at Raccoon Creek State Park said, "The electric sites are very close together."
- Bring Extensions: If you're using electric hookups, consider bringing an extension cord. A camper at Keystone State Park suggested, "You may want to have an extension for your power cable."
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Many campgrounds are close to local attractions. A visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run recommended, "This is a great base camp for exploring area attractions in the Laurel Highlands."
Camping near Pittsburgh, PA, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.
