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Best Campgrounds near West Newton, PA

515 Reviews

Camping around West Newton, Pennsylvania centers on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail system with several campgrounds designed for hikers and bikers traveling this route. The region includes both established campgrounds like Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA and Fox Den Acres, as well as free primitive camping areas such as Dravo's Landing and Round Bottom Camping Area. Accommodation options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, cabins, and even yurts. Most developed campgrounds are within a 30-minute drive of West Newton, positioned along the Youghiogheny River which parallels much of the GAP trail.

Seasonal patterns strongly influence camping accessibility in this area, with many private campgrounds operating from April through October. Free hiker-biker campgrounds along the GAP trail remain open year-round but offer limited amenities during winter months. As one camper noted, "Free bike-in camp site with water access along the Youghiogheny River. Access from the Allegheny Gap trail. There were a few shelters, nice campsite." Water availability can be inconsistent at primitive sites, with several reviews mentioning uncertain potability at some wells. Train noise affects many of the riverside campgrounds, with multiple reviewers recommending earplugs for overnight stays due to frequent passing trains and squealing brakes on nearby tracks.

Developed campgrounds in the region provide various amenities including swimming pools, fishing ponds, and organized activities. Several campgrounds feature riverside locations with easy water access. "The camp is the special project of a very industrious group of scouts, and they have done a nice job. There are about 4 lean-to's which can accommodate 4 sleepers, or one 2-person tent," noted a visitor about Dravo's Landing. Sites closer to Pittsburgh tend to have more RV-oriented facilities with full hookups, while the free hiker-biker campgrounds offer a more rustic experience with pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Several reviewers mentioned the availability of free firewood at some GAP trail camping areas, maintained by local volunteer groups. The proximity to the Great Allegheny Passage makes these campgrounds particularly popular with cyclists touring the trail.

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Best Camping Sites Near West Newton, Pennsylvania (99)

    1. Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA

    10 Reviews
    Youngwood, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 722-4444

    "They have a pool, fishing pond and a cloud pillow with the playground next to it along with two small dog play areas.Every week they organizes different themes for bingo, and other games."

    "The sites are pretty close together and we couldn’t use our fire ring because it ended up being very close to our rig."

    2. Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    82 Reviews
    Ohiopyle, PA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 329-8591

    $24 - $72 / night

    "Ohiopyle is located in a beautiful area of Pennsylvania we've camped there a couple of times and have been able to get last minute tent sites. Lots of outdoor activities nearby."

    "Very close to two Frank Lloyd Wright properties– Kentuck Knob and the more widely known Falling Waters."

    3. Fox Den Acres Campground

    9 Reviews
    Youngwood, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 925-7054

    $25 / night

    "It’s very military positive, even includes a reserved place for the fallen soldiers. Some sites are a bit close, the pull through sites are very ample. Gravel roads and level sites."

    "Tent site was nice and conveniently located next to the bathhouse"

    4. Dravo's Landing Campground

    3 Reviews
    Sutersville, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 872-5586

    "Access from the Allegheny Gap trail. There were a few shelters, nice campsite. It’s close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire"

    "This campsite is a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail (it's the last one before Pittsburgh!)"

    5. The GAP Trail Campground - Bikers Only

    1 Review
    West Newton, PA
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 244-5859

    $25 / night

    "Had we not stopped for the previous night’s camp 8 miles sooner, this would have been our favorite camp along the trail. Glad we stopped to check it out, but next time we will include it for sure! "

    6. Keystone State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    Latrobe, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 668-2939

    $22 - $117 / night

    "Camped in the Lakeside Loop. This State Park is so Clean! The campground gives you easy access to anything you want to do. Fish, swim, hike, bike, kayak. It can all be done."

    "This is our second time staying here - once in Electric site on Lakeside and this time non electric site on Hillside. Love this side of Hillside - quiet and shaded."

    7. The Blue Canoe RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    Vanderbilt, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 628-4880

    $20 - $999 / night

    "Located on the Youghiogheny River. Many full hookups, great play ground for the kids. New pool, but not open when we stayed."

    "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground."

    8. Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Bentleyville, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 239-2900

    "Wonderful hosts, well maintained, large sites, close to the highway but no road noise. Giant pool opened in the summer. Highly recommended."

    9. Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm

    1 Review
    Belle Vernon, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 989-6004

    $100 - $150 / night

    "This is a cannabis friendly campground that overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains. One yurt with a bed is offered. Please no alcohol."

    10. Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run

    1 Review
    Perryopolis, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (724) 872-5586

    "Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run is a free camping area directly on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail around Mile 99 (East of West Newton roughly 15 miles). "

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Recent Camping Photos near West Newton, PA

198 Photos of 99 West Newton Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near West Newton, PA

515 Reviews of 99 West Newton Campgrounds

  • Dana M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park

    Ok for a quick overnight

    Due to a water main break, only one bathroom and showers were available. Bathrooms were quite old and run down. There are over 100 sites. Pets are only allowed on specific loops and cannot be walked on “non pet” loops. We had an electric site which was pretty level for our van. Bike trails were more like hiking trails ( not single track Mtn biking trails). I found this park to be “just ok”.

  • Jennifer S.
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Fox Den Acres Campground

    Nice campground, close to home

    Friendly people. Clean. Only downside is only one bathhouse/restroom, hampering g the no #2 in camper. LoL

  • Kathy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Laurel Hill State Park Campground

    Okay campground

    Okay campground. We met nice people staying there. However, the sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites. Large open grassy area. The camp host saw me walking my pups, and as I walked toward the trash can(near the bathroom) to throw away a pooped that I had picked up, she yelled across the green area from her site“no dogs in the bathrooms!” Kinda rude, but later she was friendly. Some okay hiking trails off the campground in a meadow.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Whispering Pines Family Campground

    Lake Wateree

    Lovely GEM in the heart of Carolina. Nestled in a quiet area full of smiling faces. And the staff were extremely accommodating.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Whispering Pines Family Campground

    Nee Meadow Creek campground

    Beautifully set in midst of a 360* view of mountains. Site are nicely spaced and are blessed with constant gentle breeze. Lovely wild flowers surrounded during my brief visit.

    However I was deceived seeing post and electrical hookup. Pretty sure none of them function.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Mountain Top Campground

    Solitude peace and quiet

    You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It’s cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond. Basic amenities. Some ice and fire wood that are self serve. We’re just here for the night and are hoping to catch an uber into the city for a pirates game. Place is full - ish but is super quiet. If you’re looking for a place to hang a hammock and read a book. This is it. Nice fire holes with a view.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Sand Springs Campground

    Remote wilderness

    Was a nice campground. Wish I would have picked a better spot. Was tricky backing in. Lots of tress. Was off season so felt like I had the place to myself. Gets some crazy fog but lot of parks and trails close by.

  • B
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Pioneer Lakes RV Park

    Don't waste your money

    This was the worst experience I have ever had camping. We always do a huge family aging trip which we end up booking multiple sites. Every site was paid in full before arrival. One family checked in and had to pay extra when they checked in while the others did not. Camp sites where not mowed and unpresentable. Picnic tables where falling apart and one was not even usable because the bolt rusted on the bench seats and the boards where falling off. The roads are full of potholes going back to the sites. The staff are extremely rude and ignorant. When I was on the gulf cart going up to pick up my family from the pool, the one staff member stepped out in front of me blockkng me from going to pick up my family who was standing by the office steps. Told me I had to go park in the grass. Anytime you left the camp ground we where one, they watched us like Hawks. We had visitors that came and went to get a visitors pass and was treated like crap in the office and they actually told our visitors they where being dishonest. The playground area is unsafe. The wood on the playsets are falling apart and splintering. I had to pull alot of splinters out of my childs hands and feet. In the guys and girls restrooms, toilets where make closed and some of the knobs where broken off in the shower rooms. The wifi is terrible. You can't even use your cellphone on the wifi, let alone trying to stream TV. The pool water is terrible. Its so filled with salt that when you get out your skin is extremely dry and your lips shrivel up. You have to pay to go fishing but yet their ponds are scummy. Driving around we noticed that one Campsite was completely under water and it hasn't rain enough for a site to be flooded, another site the freshwater connection was held down by raquet straps to keep it together, another site there was a pile of shale and a mini excavator sitting in the lot with campers there. There was a band at the pavillion and there was a moonshine tent and staff was at it doing taste testing. I feel that drinking on the job is inappropriate. We use to go once a year here for the last 25 years and since the new owners took over, we will no longer camper there. Overall our trip was more frustrating than enjoyable. They need to find new staff that are customer friendly and not tyrants.

Guide to West Newton

Camping near West Newton, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails nearby. Campers have enjoyed the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer mentioning, "There is a lot of hiking nearby, most of which you need to drive to within the state park."
  • Rafting Adventures: If you're into water sports, rafting on the Ohiopyle River is a hit. One camper shared, "Stayed here one weekend and rafted down the Ohiopyle river. Very convenient to the river and town."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds have access to lakes and rivers. A visitor noted, "The lake provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less-used fishing spots if you are willing to walk."

What campers like

  • Privacy and Space: Campers appreciate the spacious sites. One review highlighted, "Site 207 was very large and private," which is a big plus for those looking for a quiet getaway.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and shower facilities are a common theme. A camper mentioned, "Bathrooms were cleaned daily, but could use some updating," indicating that while they are maintained, there's room for improvement.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier for families to bring their furry friends along. One reviewer said, "Pets are welcome, very clean place," which is great for pet owners.

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, have limited amenities. A visitor noted, "There is no camp store, but firewood was available."
  • Site Selection Matters: Choosing the right site is crucial. One camper warned, "The electric sites are very close together," so it’s wise to check the layout before booking.
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Coopers Rock State Forest is open from April 1 to October 31, so plan your trip accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly activities. One family enjoyed, "The amenities and activities this campground had were amazing for keeping the kids busy!"
  • Safety First: Be aware of your surroundings. A camper mentioned, "Our campsite was surrounded with poison ivy," so it's good to keep an eye out for plants that could cause issues.
  • Bathroom Proximity: Choose a site close to bathrooms if you have young kids. One reviewer appreciated, "Site 5 is definitely the closest to the bathroom if you need that."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Many sites can be uneven. A camper advised, "The campground overall is very hilly and the swimming area is almost too far to walk to with young kids."
  • Electric Hookups: If you need power, make sure to reserve a site with electric hookups. One RV owner noted, "Most of the sites are large and pretty spread out," which is helpful for maneuvering larger vehicles.
  • Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A visitor shared, "On Friday night… tons of families rolled in with loud kids running around," so consider visiting during the week for a quieter experience.

Camping near West Newton, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access the West Newton trailhead on the Great Allegheny Passage?

The West Newton trailhead on the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) is located in downtown West Newton, along the Youghiogheny River. The trailhead features parking areas, making it accessible for day users. For cyclists planning multi-day trips, Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run is located approximately 15 miles east of West Newton directly on the GAP Trail around Mile 99, providing convenient trail access. The West Newton access point serves as a popular starting location for both eastbound and westbound journeys along the trail, with clear signage marking the trailhead.

Are there bicycle rental options in West Newton for the Great Allegheny Passage?

Yes, West Newton offers bicycle rental services through Yough River Trail Council's bike rental shop located near the trailhead, providing hourly and daily rentals with various bike types available. The shop typically operates seasonally from spring through fall with weekend hours extending during peak summer months. For cyclists planning longer trips, Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park is within riding distance and serves as another hub for bike rentals and trail information. Make sure to call ahead to verify current rental hours and availability, especially during off-season periods.

What are the best restaurants and dining options in West Newton for trail users?

West Newton offers several dining options conveniently located near the GAP Trail. The Trailside Restaurant serves American classics and is a popular stop for cyclists. Gary's Chuck Wagon offers quick bites with outdoor seating that's bike-friendly. The Bright Morning Bed & Breakfast also houses a café that's perfect for breakfast and lunch with trail-ready takeout options. For those camping in the area, Raccoon Creek State Park Campground is within reasonable driving distance and makes a good base for exploring regional dining. Tomlinson Run State Park Campground visitors also frequently venture to West Newton for its dining variety that caters to hungry trail users.

What amenities are available at the West Newton camping area?

The West Newton camping area offers basic trail amenities including water access, restrooms, and picnic areas. For those seeking more developed facilities nearby, Bush Recreation Area provides electric hookups, fresh water, picnic tables, and playgrounds, making it family-friendly. Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run is another option with amenities catering to both tent campers and RVs, featuring creek-side sites and boat access for those wanting to explore the river. Both locations offer convenient facilities for GAP Trail users looking to camp near West Newton.

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