Saxton, Pennsylvania sits at 825 feet elevation in the Allegheny Mountains, with campgrounds nestled between forested ridges and valleys. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F during peak camping months. Cell reception varies dramatically between higher elevation campgrounds and those in lower valleys near Raystown Lake.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Honey Bear Campground, anglers can explore multiple fishing spots without needing a license in designated areas. "I know my opinion is biased, but I keep coming back because it is so great," notes a seasonal worker who has returned for 11 seasons.
Mini golf courses: Family-friendly rv campgrounds near Saxton offer recreational amenities beyond water activities. Friendship Village Campground maintains a well-kept mini golf course adjacent to their arcade. A visitor mentioned, "Nice campground, clean and plenty of activities for the kids. The only thing we didn't like was all of the road noise."
Jumping pillow access: Multiple campgrounds feature bounce pillows for children. One camper at Friendship Village noted, "Went camping here for the first time this weekend. Although it was the off season there was still tons to do. The kids played mini golf, jumped on the pillow, played on multiple playgrounds, enjoyed ice cream and went fishing."
What campers like
Level sites: Many campers appreciate the careful site preparation at Timber Run Campground where 67 sites feature electrical hookups and gravel pads. The campground previously operated as Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA, where a visitor observed, "This was a nice campground! The staff were super friendly and the whole campground was tidy and clean. The only drawback was that the sites were tight and not the most level but we made do."
Bathroom facilities: Clean restrooms and showers rank highly in camper reviews. A visitor to Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA mentioned, "Staff was wonderful and just a great campground," with another specifically adding, "Bathrooms are Soo nice."
Waterfront access: Lake Raystown Resort provides direct lake access with a sandy swimming beach. "Both RV sites and lots to rent to pitch your own tent, fishing, huge lake with beach, lots of activities for the kids throughout the summer, one of the nicest parks we have camped at!" reports one camper.
What you should know
Site elevation challenges: The terrain around Saxton creates uneven campsites at some facilities. At Pioneer Lakes RV Park, a camper noted, "We ended up on a grassy hill in the back. The spot was so unlevel there were 19 inches between my bottom step and the ground."
Limited seasonal availability: Several campgrounds close between October and April. Honey Bear Campground operates from "April 15 to October 15," requiring advance planning for spring and fall camping trips.
Road noise concerns: Highway proximity affects sound levels at some campgrounds. One Friendship Village visitor reported, "This campground is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long. The road noise made it hard to hear when we were sitting around the fire."
Tips for camping with families
Dog accommodations: Many rv campgrounds in Saxton, Pennsylvania welcome pets with designated areas. Pioneer Lakes visitor mentioned, "Aside from all the above, the Dog Park is awesome. It's the size of a real, normal dog park."
Weekend activities: Family-oriented events occur regularly at Nature's Getaway RV Park. "Whether your stopping overnight on the way to somewhere or staying the weekend, this is a great place to park. We got the pull through at the end of one loop so we could face the woods," noted one visitor.
Pool access timing: Swimming pools typically open late morning rather than early. At Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA, a camper observed, "The pool hours or a little later than most campgrounds as they open at 11 through the week and 12 on Sunday."
Tips from RVers
Navigating mountain roads: Access to some Saxton area campgrounds requires careful driving on winding routes. When visiting Timber Run Campground, a camper advised, "If traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour."
Site selection strategies: Careful site selection improves camping experience. At Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA, a visitor recommended, "For big rig campers, you need to stay at the upper portion of the campground at sites 200-500. In my opinion, the best sites to stay at if you have kids are sites 145–171 as those are right beside the jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit."
Service planning: Schedule RV service needs around local availability. Lake Raystown Resort has limited repair options, while Friendship Village has convenient access to maintenance. "If you have any issues with your camping rig, there is a full-service RV dealership basically at the entrance to the campground where you can buy virtually anything that you may require."
