Tent camping near Presto, Pennsylvania largely centers around the Youghiogheny River and surrounding woodland areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 745 to 2,950 feet along the Laurel Mountain range, creating varied terrain for campers. Weather in this Appalachian region fluctuates seasonally with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season.
What to do
River access for cooling off: Dravo's Landing Campground offers direct access to the Youghiogheny River where campers can enjoy swimming during summer months. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes one Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground visitor.
Cemetery exploration: Several campers mention the historical cemetery near Dravo's Landing as an interesting site. "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire," reports one Dravo's Landing Campground reviewer.
Friday night activities: For a unique experience, cannabis-friendly Laurel Highlands Hemp Farm offers special events. "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," mentions a reviewer at Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm.
What campers like
Lean-to shelters: Many campsites along the GAP trail offer covered structures. "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain," explains a camper at Round Bottom Camping Area.
Free firewood: Some campgrounds maintain wood supplies for visitors. "The local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go," notes a Dravo's Landing camper.
Space for large groups: Several campsites accommodate bigger gatherings. "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," reports a Dravo's Landing visitor.
What you should know
Train noise: Active rail lines along the Youghiogheny River create significant noise at 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!" advises a The GAP Trail Campground visitor.
Water safety concerns: Many campsites have questionable water sources. "The well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing," explains a Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground reviewer.
Wildlife considerations: Take precautions with food storage. "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" warns a Dravo's Landing camper.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Most GAP trail campgrounds offer basic facilities. "The bathrooms are the standard forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough," reports a Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground visitor.
Weekday camping: For a less crowded experience with children, consider non-weekend visits. "Bicycle traffic was fairly light during the week, so not only did you have the GAP Trail mostly to oneself, the camping areas were either sparsely filled or empty," notes a Round Bottom Camping Area visitor.
Reservations required: Some sites need advance booking. "You have to reserve a rustic campsite beforehand," explains a Laurel Ridge State Park Campground camper, with many sites costing approximately $12 per night.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodation: Most camping in this area is tent-focused. "This is one of the only free hiker-biker campgrounds along the GAP trail (mile 99.6)," notes a Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground visitor, indicating the primarily non-motorized focus of the best tent camping near Presto, Pennsylvania.
Camping conditions: While few RV spots exist, those that do may have challenges. "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," reports a visitor at Indian Creek Camplands Inc.
Trail access considerations: For those with camper vans, parking options are limited. "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run can only be accessed by the GAP Trail, which means on foot or bicycle…or paddlers on the Youghioheny River," explains a visitor.
