Camping near Glenshaw, Pennsylvania ranges from primitive tent sites to full-service campgrounds with cabins, typically at elevations between 900-1,300 feet in the Allegheny Plateau region. The camping season extends beyond the standard April-October window at several locations, with Mountain Top Campground in Tarentum remaining open year-round despite occasional snowfall at its 1,200-foot elevation.
What to do
Fishing at lakeside locations: Raccoon Creek State Park offers access to fishing areas where campers regularly catch panfish species. "A great place to take the dog out to swim and chase geese and ducks. A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun," notes Jim L. about the park's water features.
Winter hiking opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain trail access during off-peak months. At Raccoon Creek State Park, one visitor shared their winter experience: "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop."
Creek exploration: At Breakneck Campground, visitors can access creek-side camping with direct water access. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail," explains one reviewer who appreciated the water proximity.
Horseback riding: For families seeking more structured activities, Bear Run Campground offers scheduled rides. As one visitor mentioned, "My son loves the horse rides on Sundays," highlighting a unique recreational opportunity not common at all area campgrounds.
What campers like
Secluded creek-side sites: Primitive camping options with water features rank high in visitor satisfaction. "We definitely lucked out with one of the best campsites; we were right next to the creek, it was super spacious and super private," shared a Breakneck Campground visitor who appreciated the waterfront location.
Mountain views: Mountain Top Campground delivers on its name with elevated panoramas. "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. 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," reports one camper about the expansive vistas.
Free bike-in camping: For cyclists traveling the GAP trail, Dravo's Landing offers no-cost sites. "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," notes one visitor who appreciated this budget-friendly option.
Military appreciation: Fox Den Acres Campground displays notable patriotic elements. One reviewer observed, "Much visible respect for those who have served in the US Armed Forces," highlighting the campground's dedication to honoring service members.
What you should know
Flood risk at lower elevations: Some water-adjacent sites face potential flooding issues. At Fox Den Acres, water management can be challenging during heavy rains as the campground sits in a lower valley area.
Train noise: Gap trail campers should prepare for railroad disturbances. A Dravo's Landing visitor warns, "One thing to consider with these campgrounds next to the trail is the number of trains that pass by in the night. It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up – so bring good earplugs if you hope to sleep!"
Coin-operated showers: Several campgrounds require quarters for shower facilities. At Fox Den Acres Campground, a visitor notes, "Bring a quarter for a 10 minute shower!" indicating the need for change when planning bathroom routines.
Variable campsite privacy: Privacy levels differ dramatically across campgrounds and even within the same facility. At Raccoon Creek State Park, one camper warned, "The area is not wooded at all and most sites look right into the sites next to them. If you are like me and crave privacy, avoid."
Tips for camping with families
Look for weekend activity schedules: Many campgrounds run organized events for children. "Every weekend there are activities, there is a heated pool and Friday night Bingo. A great place with even better people!" reports one visitor about Bear Run Campground's family programming.
Consider campgrounds with swimming options: During summer months, water features become essential for family comfort. "They have an Olympic sized swimming pool, nature trails, playground, basketball court, recreation hall and walking distance to harmony and all the live music and nightlife that Harmony and Zelienople have to offer," writes a camper about Indian Brave Campground.
Check for first-timer support: Some campgrounds provide extra assistance for new campers. "Upon calling to book a site, we mentioned this was our first trip, they made the utmost effort to accommodate us with all of our needs. They escorted us to our campsite and made sure we had plenty of help getting backed in and set up!" shared a first-time RVer at Indian Brave Campground.
Avoid remote bathrooms with kids: Site selection matters for families needing frequent bathroom access. A Tomlinson Run State Park camper advised, "Most sites are spacious! Only downside is you can hear the airport. Not a huge deal though!"
Tips from RVers
Call ahead for access information: Mountain roads can present challenges for larger rigs. A Mountain Top camper suggests, "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in."
Grey water disposal options: Some campgrounds offer unique solutions for longer stays. "Since they sit atop the mountain, the grey water hookup is a long hose that has an adapter which hooks up to your black and grey tank outlet and it runs down the hillside of the mountain into the grassy area," explains a visitor at Mountain Top Campground.
Level site considerations: Topography affects site selection for RVs requiring level ground. "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites so I imagine it was just the time of year we visited," noted one RVer at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
Self-service amenities: Many campgrounds operate with minimal staffing outside peak hours. "They had both ice and firewood available that was self service," reports a Mountain Top visitor, highlighting the need for cash and self-sufficiency when staying at more remote locations.
