Camping spots near Rockwood, Pennsylvania range from wooded state parks to private lakeside campgrounds within the Laurel Highlands region. Situated at approximately 2,000 feet elevation, the area experiences cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 50s even in July. Most campgrounds in this area have gravel pads with surrounding grass areas, requiring proper leveling equipment for RVs.
What to do
Hiking in Forbes State Forest: Access multiple trails from Kooser State Park Campground, which sits on the border of this expansive forest system. "There's a pretty decent campground with nice spots. A great area for hiking and taking walks. Pet friendly. Only downfall is that the lake swimming area is closed," notes camper Danielle W.
Mountain biking at nearby resorts: Seven Springs and Hidden Valley ski resorts offer summer mountain biking within 15 minutes of many Rockwood area campgrounds. "Kooser State Park is a small campground nestled in the Laurel Highlands, close to Hidden Valley and Seven Springs ski resorts," shares Britt B., who appreciated the proximity to these recreation areas.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities without traveling far. At Pioneer Park Campground, three fishing ponds provide easy access for anglers. "Very friendly ownership. Always go out of their way to accommodate. Pleanty of very well maintaIned large sights all pull through. Great camp store, fire wood, fire rings, very clean facilities. Three large lakes, fishing," explains camper Denny S.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Scarlett Knob Campground near Ohiopyle. "All time favorite campsite yet. Each site is far away other sites you feel alone. Each check in and out. Same building you check in they have ice to buy and some snacks. Limited service at campsite," reports Amanda A.
Clean, modern facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors to the region. "The camp store if beautiful and has everything in it should you forget something. I'll definitely be back," writes Anne B. about Hickory Hollow Campground, noting its "brand new bath house which was spotless and a well kept dog park for the furs."
Cool mountain temperatures: The higher elevation offers relief from summer heat. "We camped at Kooser to escape the head down in Pittsburgh. Sits up high in the mountains close to 3000ft elevation," explains Matt R., appreciating the cooler weather compared to urban areas just an hour away.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Rockwood operate from mid-April through October. Kooser State Park Campground specifically runs "April 15 to October 15," according to their official season. Plan your trip accordingly as facilities typically close during winter months.
Limited level sites in state parks: Several campgrounds in the region feature sloped terrain. "Many of the sites are not level, but very grassy," notes Britt B. about Kooser State Park, while another camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground reports: "RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites."
Cell service variability: Coverage depends heavily on specific location and carrier. At Scarlett Knob Campground, campers report "Limited service at campsite," while Kevin E. mentions getting "2 bars Verizon" at Pioneer Park Campground. Prepare for potential communication limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Water-based recreation: Families appreciate the swimming and boating options at campgrounds with lakes. "Great for families to get away. Quiet and scenic, great trails. Close to lake and fishing," mentions Natalie L. about Laurel Hill State Park Campground, which features a swimming beach within walking distance of many sites.
Consider Yogi Bear campground amenities: For extensive kid-friendly activities, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run offers extensive family programming. "This Yogi Bear campground offers a large waterpark area, large pool, monster truck rides and many activities. You don't have to leave to find something to do," says Terra B., highlighting the all-inclusive nature of this option.
Dog-friendly loops: Many campgrounds offer specific pet-friendly areas. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded," explains Casey L. about Laurel Hill State Park, advising families with pets to choose their loop carefully.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Several campgrounds have poorly positioned electrical hookups. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E. at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Advance booking for holiday weekends: RV sites at popular campgrounds like Hickory Hollow fill quickly during peak season. "What a pleasure, this place is great. Neat mixture of old campground and new campground. Kids had a blast, plenty of activities, water park, outstanding camp store," shares Jim C. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, recommending booking well ahead for holiday weekends.
