The Laurel Highlands region near Seward, Pennsylvania features numerous tent camping areas alongside former rail lines at elevations between 1,000-2,500 feet. The area experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs typically in the 80s and cooler mountain nights. Winter camping opportunities are limited as most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Fishing access: Round Bottom Camping Area provides convenient river access for anglers. "There is plenty of grassy area for scores of tents in this area. It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking," notes Dave V. at Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run.
Hiking trails: Mountain View Camps serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby trails. "Great place to stay close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands, and might even see an albino fawn," according to Richard C. who stayed at Mountain View Camps.
Local history: Maple Festival Park provides access to town amenities while camping. "We've camped in a lot of places, from remote islands, alpine glaciers, to downtown parks, and yet none have displayed the unique mix of this quaint little corner of Meyersdale, PA. Yes, this small homestead, right in the middle of a residential block, hosts the annual March tradition of the Maple festival, and has been crowning 'Maple Queens' for 75 years!" writes Shari G.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront settings: Long Acres on Clover Creek offers peaceful waterside camping. "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality. The stars are so bright out here and the tent was absolutely fabulous! Close access to state game lands and nearby hiking trails and fishing spots!" writes Sarah A. about Long Acres on Clover Creek.
Clean facilities: The GAP Trail Campground stands out for its amenities. "The outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not. The spacious and lush lawn has lots of space for tents, but the winner is the covered seating, dining, and cooking area. Everything is clean as a whistle," reports Shari G. about The GAP Trail Campground.
Affordable options: Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground requires boat access but offers good value. "This campground is accessed by boat only. But it has a maintenance road and is patrolled by college kids with summer jobs. Follow the rules and you will have a wonderful time," notes John H.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Freight trains are common throughout the region. "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River…it is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had," warns a camper at Round Bottom.
Reservation requirements: Many tent campsites near Seward, Pennsylvania require advance booking during peak season. "Sites and shelters are first come, first served," notes a reviewer about Round Bottom, while Maple Festival Park recommends calling ahead.
Water sourcing: Water availability varies widely at tent camping locations. "No potable water…there is hand pump but the water was discolored," reports a visitor to Round Bottom, suggesting campers filter water from nearby streams or bring their own supply.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for local fauna while camping. Richard C. mentions at Mountain View Camps that visitors might "even see an albino fawn" and can explore ruins on nearby game lands.
Lean-to options: Shelters provide weather protection for families. "We were bikepacking the GAP Trail east from Pittsburgh and arrived on a Sunday evening mid-June. We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements," shares a camper at Dravo's Landing Campground.
Food storage: Secure provisions from wildlife. "We made friends with a few other folks who were stopping at Dravo during their bike trips along the GAP, and everyone appreciated the abundance of picnic tables, fire pits, lean-tos, and the nearby river. Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" warns Sarah Q.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping areas near Seward cater primarily to tent campers with few RV amenities. "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone," notes Kristen H. about Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, one of the few areas that accommodates both tents and RVs.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping is limited primarily to summer months. "College kids with summer jobs" patrol boat-in campgrounds during peak season, notes one camper, indicating the seasonality of camping options.
Weekend planning: Weekdays offer more solitude for campers. "Some weekends get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down," advises a camper at Nancy's Boat To Shore.
