Rockwood sits at around 1,840 feet above sea level in southwestern Pennsylvania, surrounded by the Laurel Highlands region with its distinctive ridge-and-valley topography. The area receives significant snowfall in winter months, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60-85°F. Local campgrounds provide a mix of wooded sites and open meadows, with many situated near small lakes or streams that originate from the surrounding mountains.
What to do
Kayak rentals at Laurel Hill: For $15 per hour, visitors can rent kayaks at Laurel Hill State Park Campground to explore the 63-acre lake. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," notes Erik E.
Hiking through forest trails: Follow the trails that wind through the wooded areas at Ohiopyle State Park, located about 25 minutes from Rockwood. "The Ferncliff Trail loops around the inside of the Yough as it does a near 360 in town. Gentle terrain along the falls and then through moss covered forest," describes Dave V.
Star gazing opportunities: Benner's Meadow Run features a dedicated star gazing platform where visitors can observe the night sky away from city lights. "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform," shares Tom C.
White water rafting excursions: The Youghiogheny River offers various rafting options for different skill levels. "Great place to go white water rafting!!!" recommends Keshini C. about Ohiopyle State Park, which serves as a hub for rafting outfitters.
What campers like
Private lakeside sites: Campers appreciate the secluded water-adjacent sites at some glamping locations close to Rockwood, Pennsylvania. "The covered wagon sites (there are 2) are isolated in their own clearing within the trees next to the lake," notes Jessica D. about Hickory Hollow Campground.
Well-stocked camp stores: Many campers mention the convenience of on-site stores. "The camp store is beautiful and has everything in it should you forget something," writes Anne B. about Hickory Hollow Campground.
Clean, modern bathhouses: Facilities across multiple campgrounds receive positive reviews for cleanliness. At Tub Run Rec Area, "Bathhouses are kept clean. Ice and firewood are available on site," according to Laurel K.
Spacious campsites: Visitors frequently mention the generous sizing of sites. "The sites are spread far apart and wooded. Table and fire rings are at each site," notes Anne B. about Hickory Hollow, while Brandy Q. adds that "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Laurel Highlands region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall. Morning fog is common in valley areas. "Foggy mornings are the best in the beautiful forest near Schellsburg historical sites," mentions Melanie Z. about Shawnee State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds in the area have sites on uneven terrain. "There are a fair amount of awkwardly-placed sites that sit on a hill and are difficult to place a tent, equipment or gear," Kaley R. notes about Shawnee State Park.
Limited nearby services: The rural location means stores and restaurants may be some distance away. "Not a lot of restaurants or stores nearby, so keep that in mind if you'll be there awhile," advises Becky C.
Campground road conditions: Some access roads require careful driving. "The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool," Rachel D. mentions about Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive water features for families. "4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids & the original 2 big water slides in woods," explains Erik W., adding that "all ages will have a blast no matter what."
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds feature stocked fishing ponds or lake access. "Stocked ponds, bathhouses very close to all sites. Laurel hill cricks/lake are 2 miles up the mountain!" mentions Catelyn T. about Pioneer Parks.
Playground facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. Katie H. notes about Rocky Gap State Park, "Near the beach there is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch."
Scheduled activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events. "This is a great RESORT type location for families with store, restaurant, pools, slides, mini golf, picnic basket wagon rides, yogi bear fire truck rides, and snowless snow tubing!" shares Tina L. about Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Carefully review site details before booking. "Make sure you check the pictures so you know what you're getting!" advises Kate D. about Laurel Hill State Park, adding that "some of the sites were on an incline or in the middle of a field."
Electric hookup access: Some campgrounds have shared power posts that may require planning. "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," suggests Erik E.
Road navigation considerations: Be prepared for tight turns or narrow roads at some campgrounds. "A few campsites have very awkward back-in approaches that did not provide sufficient area to maneuver a large rig into them," notes Gerard about Shawnee State Park.
Level site importance: Many reviewers emphasize checking for level sites. "This is a beautiful campground. We check all our boxes. Beautiful scenery, quiet location, spacious campsites, full RV hookups, well-placed fire rings, dog park, nice large bathhouses, polite staff, and Wi-Fi that works," shares Arlyn S. about Hickory Hollow Campground.
