Tent camping near Rector, Pennsylvania offers access to the Laurel Highlands region which features elevations ranging from 1,200 to over 2,900 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the 70s-80s°F and considerably colder winters. Camping options connect directly to the region's extensive trail system, including both free primitive sites and reservable areas with varying amenities.
What to do
Paddling on the Youghiogheny River: Several campsites provide direct river access for fishing or boating. Visitors at Big Run State Park Campground report the stream is "incredible and lively with trout and crayfish," making it ideal for anglers.
Yoga with goats: Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm hosts special Friday night events. "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending," notes a visitor, offering a unique activity not found at other area campgrounds.
Cemetery exploration: The historic cemetery near Dravo's Landing Campground provides an interesting side activity. One camper notes it's "close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire."
Mountain biking access: Sites along the GAP Trail provide strategic stopping points for cyclists. The GAP Trail Campground - Bikers Only serves as "a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites. At Big Run, campers appreciate that "there was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful," creating a more secluded experience.
Natural soundscape: Riverside campsites provide constant white noise. Campers at Big Run enjoy the "beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!"
Campsite flexibility: Laurel Ridge State Park Campground offers multiple camping areas along its trail. One visitor notes, "It is a beautiful wooded park offering lots of trees for privacy. I wish I had more time to explore the park before moving on."
Clean facilities: Even primitive sites maintain decent amenities. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "The bathrooms are the standard forest service pit-toilet and were certainly clean enough."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many sites require water treatment or bringing your own. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "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."
Train noise is consistent: Rail lines parallel many campsites along the GAP Trail. A camper advises, "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."
Wildlife concerns: Local fauna can interfere with camp setups. At Dravo's Landing, campers are warned to "be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Reservation requirements: Some sites are first-come, while others need planning. Maple Festival Park requires reservations, and one camper notes its unique setting: "Yes, this small homestead, right in the middle of a residential block, hosts the annual March tradition of the Maple festival."
Tips for camping with families
Select level sites: Not all areas are equally accommodating. At Indian Creek Camplands, be aware that there are "not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Consider seasonal mosquito issues: Insect repellent is essential during warmer months. At Big Run, "the mosquitos sucked. The pit toilets were a nice long walk or a short drive away and not the worst I've seen."
Look for water play areas: Some sites feature safe water access for children. One family at Big Run used "lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water."
Pack earplugs: Train noise affects light sleepers of all ages. A visitor at Maple Festival Park notes, "The train line, and the trail, are a steep hike up the hill from the rest of town, so the noise is much less bothersome during the night."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options exist: Most sites cater to tent camping or small trailers. At Big Run, a camper successfully used their site "for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Scout sites before committing: Size constraints affect placement options. "Many other sites/options for 26ft ish size camper," mentions an RV owner at Big Run, suggesting advanced research is helpful.
Waste disposal planning: Full hookups are rare in the region. Campers note that "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park" from Big Run, requiring strategic planning for longer stays.
