Glamping near Glenshaw, Pennsylvania ranges from primitive tent platforms to full-service luxury stays with significant seasonal variations. The region sits at elevations between 850-1,200 feet, creating moderate temperature swings between day and night even in summer months. Most glamping sites operate from April through October, with peak reservation demands falling between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.
What to do
Explore McConnell's Mill trails: McConnell's Mill State Park connects directly to Breakneck Campground, where guests can access multiple hiking routes. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek down into McConnells Mill State Park," notes one visitor who appreciated the creek-side access.
Fish in stocked waters: Multiple ponds and lakes throughout the region offer fishing opportunities without requiring a boat. At Keystone State Park Campground, visitors mention the fishing-friendly environment: "Great place to fish with young children," reports one camper, highlighting the accessible shorelines suitable for beginners.
Join scheduled weekend activities: Many campgrounds organize regular events, particularly during holiday weekends. At Jellystone Park at Kozy Rest, activities run throughout the season. "Great campground with great staff. This was the first campground we ever RV'ed in and we've returned now for three years," shares a repeat visitor who appreciates the consistent programming.
What campers like
Creek-side primitive sites: The walk-in tent sites along waterways offer more seclusion and natural ambiance. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. There are designated fireplaces. It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek," explains one Breakneck Campground visitor describing the trade-off between amenities and privacy.
Clean facilities despite high usage: Many campgrounds maintain their restroom facilities well even during peak periods. At Fox Den Acres Campground, guests note the cleanliness: "Even though I stayed the day after the Memorial Day weekend, the place was very clean and orderly in spite of bulging trash bins. Kudos to the staff," writes one appreciative camper.
Sites with varying privacy levels: Campground layouts often offer a mix of open and secluded sites within the same property. "There are 10 walk-in sites with 2 beauties down by the creek, 7 or so observation platforms you can camp on and to many to count car camping sites," describes a visitor to Breakneck Campground, highlighting the variety of options available at a single location.
What you should know
Quiet hour enforcement varies: Not all campgrounds strictly enforce their stated quiet hours. "Clearly there is absolutely no enforcement of the quiet hours whatsoever," reports one frustrated visitor to Breakneck Campground who experienced noise until nearly 4 AM despite posted 10 PM quiet hours.
Reservation requirements: Many glamping accommodations require advance planning. At Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping, premium sites book quickly during popular weekends. "The Day before they Called us to make sure that we were still coming and to confirm the reservation and offered us a FREE site upgrade," shares one visitor who experienced good communication about their reservation.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature sloped sites that may require additional equipment. "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," notes a camper at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, indicating ongoing improvements to address the issue.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dual pool options: Some campgrounds offer multiple swimming areas catering to different age groups. "Love that there is 2 pools so you can relax without all the hustle and bustle of water slides and pirate ships," mentions a family visiting Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run, appreciating the separate quiet pool option.
Consider hillside versus lakeside camping: When visiting Keystone State Park, families have distinct options. "There are 2 campgrounds in the park, the hillside one and the one on the lake. The lakeside one is a glorified trailer park and is packed during the summer with no privacy. The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods," advises a camper who prefers the quieter section.
Pack for temperature fluctuations: The region's elevation means evenings can cool significantly even in summer. "We had a big night of rain and with the wind it dried up pretty quickly," notes a camper at Tomlinson Run State Park, suggesting the variable conditions require appropriate clothing and gear even during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Check for site dimensions before booking: RV sites vary significantly in size and grade throughout the region. "Site was very private and relatively flat. We did not use the bathroom facilities but they seemed nice. There is a lot to do in the park and the fact that it is very close to home means we will back again," shares a first-time RVer about their experience at Keystone State Park.
Consider pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer dedicated pull-through sites for easier access. "Nice pull-thrus with full hookups for overnights," notes a camper at Fox Den Acres, where the lower field features level pull-through sites particularly convenient for overnight stays.
Verify shower facilities: Some campgrounds have limited shower access or coin-operated systems. "Bring a quarter for a 10 minute shower! There's one 1950's bathhouse with a few stalls for hundreds of RV sites but they figure you're self-contained I suppose," advises a visitor to Fox Den Acres, highlighting the potential limitations for those relying on campground facilities.
