Somerset offers a gateway to the Laurel Highlands region with many camping opportunities situated at elevations between 2,000-3,000 feet. This higher elevation creates distinctly cooler summer temperatures, typically 5-10 degrees lower than surrounding lowlands. Camping sites in the area vary from densely wooded to open grassy areas, with many facilities closing after mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Quemahoning Family Recreation Area provides excellent access to fishing in its large reservoir. "Great place for fishing kayaking. Very family oriented," notes Kyle K. The area allows electric-only powered boats or paddle craft.
Bouldering and climbing: Near Laurel Hill State Park Campground, you'll find natural rock formations perfect for beginners. "This was a very fun place! There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! And even a few smaller caves to explore! It was an adventure paradise," reports Jill R.
Water activities: Multiple parks offer swimming and boating between May and September. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," says Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Trail exploration: The 5-mile Lake Habeeb trail at Rocky Gap State Park Campground provides a comprehensive tour. "There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle. Easy to get to from I-70," notes Marcandpatti B.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Hickory Hollow Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "Hickory Hollow's campsites were nicely spaced out, perched on a hillside, but with nice flat pads. The lake and farm country provided a welcoming and relaxing setting," writes Brandy Q.
Quality firewood: Several campgrounds offer reasonably priced firewood. "Firewood is available at the entrance for $5 per bundle supporting a local club," reports Britt B. about Kooser State Park.
Clean facilities: Campground bathhouses receive regular maintenance. "The bathhouse was kept very clean, even though the campground was full," says Kimberly H. about Rocky Gap State Park.
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation of camps like Kooser State Park (nearly 3,000 feet) provides relief from summer heat. "We camped here in July to escape the head down in Pittsburgh. Sits up high in the mountains close to 3000ft elevation," notes Matt R.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require significant effort to level equipment. "The RV sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," warns Kathy L. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Cell phone coverage: Connectivity varies dramatically between locations. "No phone reception at this one!" mentions Britt B. about Kooser State Park, while others report better coverage at campgrounds closer to towns.
Loop selection: Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park has distinct camping areas with different features. "There are two main loops in this campground. One that is pet friendly and more of a pitch-your-tent-in-the-yard thing and another that is pet-free and wooded. We didn't realize and stayed in the first one. Dogs were barking at all hours and there's no privacy," cautions Casey L.
Road noise: Several campgrounds experience highway sounds. "The park is close to the road so you will experience some road noise," mentions Britt B. about Kooser State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water parks and activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run offers extensive recreation options. "Mill run by far the best yogi bear/campground we have been to. Second time we have been & they have upgraded the water slides 4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids," shares Erik W.
Dedicated swim areas: Many parks maintain swimming beaches separate from fishing areas. "We have a wonderful beach area with volley ball nets. Nice paddle boards and canoes for rent," Jeff H. mentions about Rocky Gap State Park.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. "There is a nice playground near shade for parents to watch," notes Katie H. about Rocky Gap State Park.
Nature programs: Several parks offer guided nature walks and junior ranger activities during summer months. "They have activities for the kids and the pool is great," Kevin H. says about Jellystone Park.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Be prepared with extra electrical cords at some parks. "The electrical hookups are not played out well like an expensive RV park with the shared power post on the entrance side of the camper. You may want to have an extension for your power cable," advises Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Site selection: Research your specific site before booking. "We have been very impressed by the pristine conditions of many Pennsylvania state parks, but this one had a more rustic feel and had not been modernized," explains Lee D. about Laurel Hill State Park.
Seasonal facilities: Most campgrounds with full hookups operate seasonally. "The campground offers a few sites with electrical and others with varying primitive services," explains Thomas G. about Quemahoning Family Recreation Area.
Full hookup availability: Pioneer Park Campground offers complete services. "Very well maintained large sights all pull through. Great camp store, fire wood, fire rings, very clean facilities," notes Denny S.
