Campers exploring the Roxbury, Pennsylvania area will find numerous options spread across the Allegheny Mountains and Laurel Highlands. Sites typically sit at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet, resulting in cooler temperatures even during summer months. Campgrounds in this region offer varying levels of privacy, with tent-only sites often providing more seclusion than RV areas.
What to do
Creek exploration: 15-minute drive from Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing provides easy access to shallow waterways perfect for warm weather activities. "A lot of their sites are along a small creek which the kids play in and can float down," notes camper Mathew H.
Mountain biking: Trail access from multiple campgrounds connects to extensive networks. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "The trail around the lake was incredible for biking - highly recommend! Everything in this park and campground are extremely well marked and maintained," according to Kaley R.
Bouldering: Novice-friendly rock formations provide accessible climbing opportunities. "There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! and even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," reports Jill R. about Laurel Hill State Park.
What campers like
Lake access: Multiple swimming areas across the region offer alternatives to crowded pools. "The lake and the trails around it are beautiful. Great swimming and kayaking/small boating. The campground was nice, quiet and clean," reports Casey S. about Shawnee State Park Campground.
Morning atmosphere: Foggy conditions create distinctive experiences in early hours. "Foggy mornings are the best in the beautiful forest near Schellsburg historical sites. Nice lake too. Easy access from the PA Turnpike," shares Melanie Z. about Shawnee State Park.
Winter accessibility: Year-round camping options available at select parks. "We stayed at Shawnee for 2 nights Memorial Day weekend just after Covid19 restrictions had been partially lifted. Site 258 on loop D is quiet, but may have been noisy if the yurt and 2 cabins had been rented out," notes Danielle S.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Terrain challenges impact many campsites throughout the region. At Blue Knob State Park Campground, "There are some great, quiet and wide sites! Bathrooms could use some updating but still very usable," reports Mark G.
Road noise: Highway proximity affects multiple campgrounds despite forest settings. At Kooser State Park, "The campground is small but it is quiet and clean. Route 31 is nearby but it wasn't all that noticeable... My only complaint is that many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level," reports Kevin E.
Weather variability: Mountain elevations mean temperatures can drop significantly after sunset. "It sits up high in the mountains close to 3000ft elevation. Park and campground are very small and almost desolate during the week," explains Matt R. about Kooser State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach facilities: Family-friendly swimming available at most lakeside parks. "The lake is great for fishing with plenty of hiking trails. There's plenty to do in surrounding areas from Ft Ligonier to the shops in the town. Great place to spend the weekend," reports Luke K. about Keystone State Park Campground.
Loop selection: Pet-friendly sections often offer different experiences. "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. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy," cautions Casey L. about Laurel Hill.
Historical sites: Educational opportunities within short driving distances of most campgrounds. "I spent a night here on my way to Pittsburgh one weekend, and I couldn't be more impressed. if you stay here, make sure to travel down the road to see the Flight 93 Memorial," advises Rachel L. about Shawnee State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Gravel pads vary significantly in quality throughout region. At Quemahoning Family Recreation Area, "The owner is very friendly and helpfull. The location on the water adds for a great view. Electric only," notes Theodore C.
Campsite privacy: Tree coverage differs by park and loop. "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers and super accommodating!" shares Brittany V. about Shawnee State Park.
Hookup locations: Power post placement requires planning at some parks. "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. about Laurel Hill State Park.
