Tent camping near Somerset, Pennsylvania provides access to scenic waters and rural landscapes at elevations between 1,800 and 2,500 feet. The region's camping areas span across southwestern Pennsylvania and adjacent parts of Maryland, with many sites situated along the 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage trail corridor. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Kayaking on Youghiogheny River: Several campsites offer direct river access for paddlers and cooling opportunities. At Barnum Whitewater Area, "the main draw here is the river," according to Frank G. This area offers primitive campsites for $10 per night alongside cabin options.
Explore historic tunnels: The Paw Paw Tunnel near Paw Paw Tunnel Campground provides a fascinating hiking destination. Jordan B. notes, "Tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel. Tunnel is always nice and cool refreshing during a long bike ride or hike on a hot day." Remember to "bring some flashlights for inside the tunnel as it is a mile long and gets very dark!"
Cemetery exploration: Some camping areas feature historic sites nearby. At Dravo's Landing, campers can visit an old cemetery just steps from their campsite. Lauren C. mentions it's "useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire," adding a unique element to the camping experience for those interested in local history.
What campers like
Spacious campsites with communal areas: Dravo's Landing Campground receives high marks for its layout and amenities. Sarah Q. reports, "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars." The site features "an abundance of picnic tables, fire pits, lean-tos, and the nearby river."
Clean facilities despite primitive setting: Many campsites maintain impressive cleanliness standards. At The GAP Trail Campground, Shari G. describes it as "More like a Spa than a Campground" with "the outdoor shower/toilet block is such a divine sight, it makes you crave one whether you're stinky or not." She adds, "Everything is clean as a whistle."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Tent campers often encounter local wildlife during their stays. At Big Run State Park Campground, Katie H. explains the creek-side sites offer wildlife viewing: "The camp sites next to the reservoir have no privacy but offer extremely easy access for canoes/kayaks," perfect for spotting waterfowl and fish. Remember that wildlife can include raccoons that "will make quick work" of unsecured food, as Sarah Q. warns.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Multiple campgrounds along the GAP Trail experience significant train noise at night. At Big Run State Park Campground, despite being "one of my favorite Western Maryland hideaways," Katie H. warns about train disturbances. Mark K. adds: "it is a pleasure to sleep in nature with nothing but birdsong and the sound of the rushing creek" when trains aren't passing.
Water availability varies widely: Many sites have limited or unreliable drinking water. Nathan S. notes that at Big Run State Park, "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park." Meanwhile, Roger W. indicates Paw Paw has a "Hand pump" for water, while other sites may require filtering from streams or rivers.
Primitive but clean bathroom facilities: Most tent camping areas feature basic toilet facilities. Aakansha J. describes Big Run State Park's facilities: "The pit toilets were a nice long walk or a short drive away and not the worst I've seen." Similarly, Robin describes the Paw Paw facilities as "Portapotties were in bad shape, but it was winter so hopefully they get serviced more often in season."
Tips for camping with families
Select stream-adjacent sites: Families with children particularly enjoy water access at several locations. Andy C. recommends Big Run State Park: "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek. The kids loved playing in the water."
Check for wildlife educational opportunities: Some camping areas provide natural learning environments. At Big Run State Park, Nathan S. mentions the "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish," creating opportunities for children to learn about local ecosystems.
Consider primitive cabin options: For families wanting a tent-like experience with more protection, Maple Festival Park offers interesting alternatives. Shari G. notes, "Set your tent up on the lawn, up on the stage, or under the long lean-to, if you want to get out of the weather. It's all up for grabs for the night." She adds, "The neighborhood cat will come to greet you, maybe even curl up on your sleeping bag! She's a sweetheart!"
Tips from RVers
Access limitations for larger vehicles: Most camping areas near Somerset have restricted vehicle access, especially those on the GAP Trail. Mark G. described Maple Festival Park as "a great campground" despite train noise, but notes access challenges for larger RVs due to the location near residential areas.
Smaller hybrid campers can fit at select sites: Some traditional tent areas can accommodate compact RVs. Andy C. successfully used "lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper" at Big Run State Park, noting it "Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean."
Off-grid preparations required: RVers should prepare for limited hookups. Christopher M. describes Indian Creek Camplands as having "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," indicating the need for leveling equipment and self-sufficient camping setups for RV users in this region.
