Coopers Rock State Forest sits 2,164 feet above sea level and connects to Cheat River Canyon near Point Marion. The area features Devonian-era sandstone formations and maintains moderate summer temperatures ranging from 65-80°F. Winter camping can experience snowfalls averaging 8-12 inches during December-February.
What to do
Rock climbing opportunities: Several climbing pitches up to 50 feet tall at Coopers Rock State Forest, located just 10 miles from Point Marion. "I have been going here for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches aren't too high (50ft) but great just to get out there and enjoy life!" notes Nick P.
Swimming with dogs: The pond at Chestnut Ridge Regional Park allows supervised dogs while families enjoy water activities. "There is a sandy beach where kids are often found collecting newts and fishing. There is a nice green space for running around," explains Christina W.
Waterfall exploration: Maryland's tallest waterfall (53 feet) sits at Swallow Falls State Park, about 35 minutes from Point Marion. "Several other falls on the Youghiogheny River. Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burroughs camped on the site in 1918, and 1921," reports Marcandpatti B.
What campers like
Large, private sites: The camping areas at Tall Oaks Campground feature exceptionally spacious campsites with natural separation. "The spots are huge and mostly very private. I prefer back country camping and not in actual campgrounds. This place is a nice compromise for my girlfriends who aren't as outdoorsy," says Erin P.
Night sky viewing: Several campgrounds offer stargazing opportunities away from city light pollution. "The stargazing opportunities are amazing here. We stayed in a tent site and they accommodate up to 10 people, so they are very large. Our site was secluded enough to have privacy," mentions Indy A. about Tall Oaks.
Consistently clean bathrooms: Recent renovations at Coopers Rock include improved facilities. "The new bath house is excellent. Old ones... meh.. they are old. New section is spaced out with a berm of earth in between a lot of the sites," explains Josh W.
What you should know
Varying water pressure: Some campgrounds experience inconsistent water pressure at different sites or during peak usage. "Water pressure was good. Bath house was clean. The grounds were very clean and well kept. Staff was friendly. Quiet and peaceful," reports corda B. at Chestnut Ridge Regional Park.
Rustic bathroom conditions: Several campgrounds have older facilities that may lack lighting or require maintenance. "The bathrooms do not have lighting so bring a headlamp or flashlight. Each site had a fire ring and a picnic table," advises Danielle S. about Coopers Rock.
Limited groceries available: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Point Marion have minimal food supplies. "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close," warns Robert C.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Benner's Meadow Run Campground offers numerous structured activities for children. "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform. Kids had a great time and lots of activities for them to do!" shares Tom C.
Level tent sites: Finding flat ground for family tents can be important for comfort. "The tent sites were completely level with no need to worry about rolling down a hill in my sleep, I slept great. The campground was so close to the nature that we wanted to see," explains Mike B. about Swallow Falls.
Dog-friendly trails: Many local trails accommodate dogs on leashes with varying difficulty levels. "Many hiking trails of all sizes and kept clear. My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere. Also had 12yr old son with me and he had a great time," says Lindsay W.
Tips from RVers
New hookup areas: Recent expansions at Coopers Rock added more options for RVs. "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," reports Josh W.
Parking lot camping alternative: For full-hookup RV needs, Mylan Park offers parking-lot style camping with all amenities. "There aren't a whole lot of full hook up camping spots in the Morgantown area. Mylan park has a bunch of full hook ups in a parking lot convenient to I-79. Easy to get to. Decent sized parking spaces," notes Molly F.
Sewer connection placement: Some campgrounds require extra-long sewer hoses. "Full hookups (bring your long sewer tube, I used 3 x15' as it's at the tail of the spot). Fields & Grassy area adjacent. Good for kids biking & running around," advises Molly F.
Traveler
