Somerset County's mountainous terrain features elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,200 feet, creating variable camping conditions throughout the region. The Laurel Highlands area receives approximately 45 inches of precipitation annually, with occasional summer thunderstorms that can develop quickly. Somerset campgrounds typically experience temperature drops of 10-15 degrees at night compared to daytime highs.
What to do
Fishing access points: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing offers creek access where kids can play and float downstream. "Site 26 is our favorite. It has a huge back yard and easy access to the creek," notes a visitor to Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Star gazing opportunities: Some campgrounds provide dedicated viewing areas for astronomy enthusiasts. "The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair," mentions one camper about Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, suggesting improvements could be made to this unique feature.
Local attractions: The region offers historic and natural points of interest within driving distance. "We stayed for 2 nights while we visited Fallingwater and the Flight 93 Memorial. We should have stayed another night so we could visit Fort Necessity NP just down the road but ran out of time," reports one camper at Benner's Meadow Run.
What campers like
Pool facilities: Several RV parks maintain swimming pools as central amenities. "The pool water is terrible. Its so filled with salt that when you get out your skin is extremely dry and your lips shrivel up," warns one camper about Pioneer Lakes RV Park, highlighting the importance of pool maintenance.
Family-friendly atmospheres: Many Somerset area campgrounds create environments suitable for children. "Been going to pioneer park since I was like 3. Extremely family friendly, lots to do for kiddos on weekend, stocked ponds, bathhouses very close to all sites," shares a long-time visitor to Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
Recreational activities: On-site entertainment options range from mini-golf to organized events. "My family stayed in one of the cabins while friends were in their campers. The cabin was great, very clean and cozy. We had 8 kids and 8 adults who all had a blast playing on the playground, floating down the creek, swimming in the pool, riding bicycles etc," reports a visitor to Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
What you should know
Road conditions: The terrain affects how easily some campgrounds can be accessed. "The entry is strange as we had to block the gated entrance to get to the office to check in. Roads are all gravel so no bikes or scooters for kids," notes a camper about Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground.
Site variability: Campsite quality and features differ significantly between and within campgrounds. "We booked a site but chose not to pay to select which one. All the pictures looked great! We ended up on a grassy hill in the back. The spot was so unlevel there were 19 inches between my bottom step and the ground," shares a camper about Pioneer Lakes RV Park.
Management differences: Ownership changes and management styles impact the camping experience. "This is a former KOA campground, but still has the same management. The good: pretty campground, clean and nice amenities. Bad: the management is rude and unfriendly. Also, the seasonal campers are also salty," reports a visitor to The Blue Canoe RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Multiple play areas provide entertainment options for children. "Very fun place for all ages. One of the best campgrounds I have stayed at so far the pond is nice and has a 1/2 mile walking path around it with trees and beaches to stop and sit dog park is big and has a place for small or large dogs there is 3 play grounds all different and all well kept," shares a visitor to Friendship Village Campground & RV Park.
Weekend activities: Many RV parks near Somerset schedule special events during weekends. "We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad that were 'oh it's so good'. On Saturday was rock painting and then bingo and ended the night with a DJ dance party," reports a camper at Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA at Four Seasons.
Cabin alternatives: For families without camping equipment, cabins provide comfortable accommodations. "My family stayed in one of the cabins while friends were in their campers. The cabin was great, very clean and cozy," notes a visitor to Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: The mountainous terrain creates uneven campsites throughout the region. "The site wasn't hard to level our RV but overall the sites are hilly and in fact the whole park is on a hill," notes a visitor to Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA.
RV hookup quality: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "Sites are very spacious and the gravel pad was level upon parking. Good connections and solid cable. Facilities are well maintained and there are a ton of activities to enjoy," reports an RVer at Friendship Village Campground.
Pool amenities: Swimming facilities at Somerset area RV parks maintain different hours and rules. "Neither pool has provided seating so you will need to bring your own camp chairs or towels to sit on. They also do not provide umbrellas but allow you to bring your own as long as they are 5 feet wide or less," advises a camper about Friendship Village Campground.
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