Pet-friendly camping near Plum, Pennsylvania offers options within a 30-minute drive of this eastern Pittsburgh suburb. The area features elevations ranging from 745 feet to over 1,100 feet above sea level in the surrounding Allegheny foothills, with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F and cooler 60-70°F nights. The region experiences moderate rainfall, with heaviest precipitation typically occurring May through July when thunderstorms can develop rapidly.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Crooked Creek Lake, campers can access both lake and creek fishing areas. "Great time family loved it," mentions Patricia about the trail camping experience. The lake offers both shoreline access and boat launch facilities, though water levels fluctuate seasonally due to dam operations.
Biking trails: The Great Allegheny Passage runs near several campgrounds in the region. "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail," shares Lauren C. about Dravo's Landing Campground. The trail provides access to Pittsburgh and connects to other regional biking routes.
Swimming options: The lake at Keystone State Park Campground provides a designated swimming area with a large beach. "Small lake where you can fish, paddle boat, and swim. Quiet hours and parking are strictly enforced," notes Joseph S. The beach area includes changing facilities and is typically open from late May through early September.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Hillside camping areas provide more privacy at some campgrounds. "There are some very secluded sites," explains Matt R. about Keystone State Park. "The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods." These sites typically require reservations further in advance during peak season.
Affordable options: Several campgrounds offer budget-friendly stays. "Very nice for an underway overnight on I76," mentions Kathryn about Fox Den Acres Campground. "Nice pull-thrus with full hookups for overnights." Most tent sites range from $20-35 per night, while RV sites with hookups generally cost $35-60 depending on amenities.
Volunteer-maintained facilities: At Dravo's Landing, "The local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go," reports Shari G. "There are about 4 lean-to's which can accommodate 4 sleepers, or one 2-person tent." Free camping areas require proper waste management as services are limited.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. "We were in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. Friendly and cozy spot. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots," shares Zachary H. about Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Shower facilities vary: Pay showers exist at some locations. "Bring a quarter for a 10 minute shower!" advises Kathryn about Fox Den Acres. "There's one 1950's bathhouse with a few stalls for hundreds of RV sites but they figure you're self-contained I suppose."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railway disturbances. "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up – so bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep!" warns Shari G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There's a playground and green space," notes Kassie F. about Bush Recreation Area. "We rented space 16 late August 2020... right next to us with the playground right behind us. Great spots! Our kids were within easy eye and earshot of the playground."
Swimming options: Water recreation provides summer cooling opportunities. "Our grandchildren loved it," shares AnnaMarie S. about Bush Recreation Area. "The boat launch is a nice size to fit 2 boats at a time. The only problem is the beach is not that great. However we stayed out in the boat on the lake most of the time."
Pet-specific activities: For families camping with dogs, look for designated areas. "They have a pool, fishing pond and a cloud pillow with the playground next to it along with two small dog play areas," explains Evelyn T. about Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA. Most campgrounds require leashes no longer than 6 feet.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose level sites when possible. "We had a full hookup site. Spacing between spots was not cramped at all," reports John H. about Mountain Top Campground. Some campgrounds recommend calling ahead for routing information due to narrow access roads.
Utility hookups: Grey water disposal options vary by location. "Level gravel lots with wood boarders... grey water dump on most sites," notes James B. about Mountain Top Campground. Many locations offer electric and water but limited sewer connections.
Accessibility issues: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. "Don't follow the GPS directions because it will take you down a wrong road and around to the main road. Instead, stay on Bush Road all the way to the campground entrance site," advises Tim J. about Bush Recreation Area. RVs over 32 feet may find certain campgrounds challenging due to tight turns and low-hanging branches.
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