Tent camping near Boswell, Pennsylvania provides easy access to the Laurel Highlands region, with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer highs typically in the 70s-80s°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most primitive campgrounds along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail experience moderate to heavy train noise throughout the night due to active rail lines running parallel to the trail.
What to do
River cooling: Access is available at most GAP Trail camping areas for quick dips in the Youghiogheny River. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "the river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," according to camper Shari G.
Historical exploration: Visit the local cemetery near Dravo's Landing Campground. One camper noted it's "close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire."
Trout fishing: Try your luck in nearby streams. At Big Run State Park Campground, Nathan S. found the "stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish."
Kayaking: Paddle the Savage River reservoir near Big Run State Park. Mark K. noted, "It is close to the Savage River reservoir, which is great for kayaking."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most primitive campgrounds offer good separation between tent sites. At Big Run State Park, Nathan S. appreciated that there were "tons of space between sites," while another camper noted the "beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!"
Natural sound barriers: The rushing water creates natural white noise for sleeping at several camping areas. Lauren C. mentioned that Dravo's Landing offers "water access along the Youghiogheny River" which helps mask some of the train noise.
Adirondack shelters: Several GAP Trail campsites feature these structures for protection during inclement weather. At Roundbottom, campers can use these shelters instead of tent pads during rain.
Free firewood: Some sites maintain woodpiles for campers. Shari G. noted that at Dravo's Landing, "The local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go."
What you should know
Water safety concerns: Several campgrounds have questionable water quality from hand pumps. At Roundbottom, Shari G. observed that "the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable," recommending getting water in towns before arrival.
Train noise levels: Prepare for significant nighttime train noise at most GAP Trail campgrounds. Multiple reviewers emphasize bringing earplugs. As one camper advised, "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up."
Wildlife issues: Secure food properly at night to prevent raccoon problems. Sarah Q. warned about The GAP Trail Campground: "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Bathhouse conditions: Facilities vary widely between locations. At Laurel Ridge State Park, Ashleigh M. noted: "The bathhouse could use a renovation. It felt old and kind of dirty."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious group areas: For larger family groups, certain campgrounds offer ample space. Sarah Q. found that 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."
Weekday timing: Consider scheduling family trips Monday-Thursday for quieter conditions. Traffic from cyclists tends to be lighter midweek along the GAP Trail.
Shallow water play: Look for camping areas with gentle river access for children. Several GAP Trail campgrounds offer safe water edges for supervised play.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitos can be problematic at some locations. At Big Run State Park, one camper reported, "it was great after sleeping in the car for a few nights. There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful, but the mosquitos sucked."
Tips from RVers
Small rig capability: Some campgrounds can accommodate compact campers despite being primarily tent-focused. Andy C. used "lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper" at Big Run State Park and reported it "fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Utilities awareness: Few tent campgrounds offer hookups. When planning RV stays, prepare for dry camping at most primitive sites along the GAP Trail.
Level site selection: Many campgrounds have limited level areas for larger vehicles. At Indian Creek Camplands, Christopher M. noted these are "not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
