Tent camping near Perryopolis, Pennsylvania provides access to the Youghiogheny River watershed, with elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet throughout the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making June through September the primary camping season. Winter camping remains possible at some locations, though facilities often operate with reduced services from November through April.
What to do
River activities: Access the Youghiogheny River directly from Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run, where campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, and water sports. "It is a short walk down a trail to the river's edge, where I filtered water for drinking," notes one camper who enjoyed the riverside location.
Hiking opportunities: The Laurel Highlands area offers extensive trail networks beyond just the GAP trail. Laurel Ridge State Park Campground provides access to the 70-mile Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail with multiple access points. A camper mentioned, "This is a beautiful park with several dramatic overlooks out over valleys to the east. I've heard a barred owl at night both times I camped here."
Cannabis tourism: For adults seeking unique experiences, Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers specialized camping with cannabis-friendly policies. One reviewer notes, "Friday nights are Toke With A Goat Yoga at 7 at the barn weather depending."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The primitive camping areas provide good separation between campsites. At Big Run State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful." Another mentioned, "The bare campsites are nicer - they are more spread out, wooded, and some of them are located right along the stream."
Natural sounds: Camping by moving water creates a peaceful auditory experience. "Beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!" reported a camper at Big Run State Park. The rushing creeks provide natural sound barriers between camping areas.
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, most campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Rhododendron Camping Area, "The facilities are always clean- no shower available. The campground is in walking distance to the overlook and most of the trails."
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds have limited or questionable water sources. At Round Bottom, one camper reported, "There is hand pump but the water was discolored." Plan to either filter water from streams or bring your own supply.
Train noise disruptions: Railroad lines parallel many camping areas along the GAP Trail. One camper at Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground advised, "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!"
Limited amenities: Most tent sites are primitive with basic facilities. "The pit toilets were a nice long walk or a short drive away and not the worst I've seen," noted a camper at Big Run State Park. Expect vault toilets and no showers at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy watching wildlife along the riverbanks. At Big Run State Park, a camper noted the "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish."
Scout-maintained facilities: Dravo's Landing Campground is maintained by scout troops, creating a family-friendly environment. "The camp is the special project of a very industrious group of scouts, and they have done a nice job," one camper reported.
Weather preparation: Sudden storms can occur in summer months. "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. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain," shared a camper at Round Bottom.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most camping areas near Perryopolis are designed for tent campers, with few RV accommodations. Big Run State Park does accommodate smaller campers, with one visitor sharing: "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
No hookups available: Even at campgrounds that permit small RVs, hookups are generally unavailable. Bring sufficient water and plan for dry camping without electrical connections.
Dump station locations: RVers need to plan for waste disposal. "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park," noted a camper at Big Run State Park.
