Glamping in South Fork, Pennsylvania provides easy access to the Allegheny Mountains region with elevations reaching over 2,500 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months and fall foliage typically reaching its peak in mid-October. Campgrounds in the region offer varied terrain from riverside locations to mountain settings with both wooded and open sites.
What to Do
Mountain biking on Allegrippis Trails: Access this extensive trail system directly from Seven Points Campground at Raystown Lake. "With the many bike trails in Seven Points, there were a lot of adult mountain bike riders," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "Ridge camp is the furthest away from the marina and the public swimming area. However it's the closest to the Allegrippis Trail system and from the entrance of the camp loop there is a trail head!"
Whitewater rafting adventures: The nearby Youghiogheny River at Ohiopyle State Park offers thrilling water activities. One visitor commented, "Great place to go white water rafting!!!" The park provides multiple difficulty levels for rafters of different experience levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experts.
Beach activities at state parks: Many area campgrounds feature lake beaches with swimming areas. At Crooked Run Campground, visitors appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere: "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. Bmx track for kids." These swimming areas typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day with most offering lifeguard supervision.
What Campers Like
Spacious, private campsites: Rocky Gap State Park offers particularly roomy sites. "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods," explains one camper. Sites at Rocky Gap typically measure 30-50 feet in length with substantial natural buffers between neighbors.
Clean facilities and maintenance: Campgrounds in the region maintain high standards for bathhouses and amenities. At Keystone State Park Campground, visitors note the well-kept grounds: "Very quiet clean facilities quiet hours are from 9pm-8am our tent site was more like an RV site as we had a hill side but each site has a 30ft concrete pad to park on." Most state parks in the area have staff cleaning bathhouses multiple times daily.
Lake recreation options: Fishing, boating, and paddling opportunities abound. One visitor to Laurel Hill State Park described the activities: "Many include fishing, swimming, boating, bicycling, hiking, geocaching, and hunting. The lake is separate from the campground, but it is less than a mile away and a reasonable distance walk." Rental equipment is available at most parks from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What You Should Know
Campsite variations and terrain: Many campgrounds feature different loops with distinct characteristics. At Friendship Village Campground, "The campground is quite spread out through the property with sites ranging from primitive campsites to full hook up big rig sites." Research site specifics before booking as elevation changes can affect accessibility.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the region. One camper at Laurel Hill State Park mentioned, "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon." Consider downloading offline maps and campground information before arrival.
Reservation timing: Waterfront and premium sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. "We wanted a waterfront site but even trying to reserve the first day we could for this weekend, they were all taken," reports a Seven Points visitor. Most state parks open reservations 11 months in advance, with holiday weekends often filling within hours of availability.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas: Multiple parks offer family-focused amenities. "There are many playgrounds spread out across the property as well as a jumping pillow and a very well-built gaga ball pit," reports a Friendship Village visitor. Most state parks have at least basic playground equipment near camping loops.
Consider yurt accommodations: For families new to camping or seeking more comfort, Yellow Creek State Park provides alternative lodging options. "We stayed in one of the yurts, and I was perfect for the group of 6 I went with. It dumped rain the first night we were there and the yurt kept us perfectly comfortable and dry," writes one camper. Yurts typically include beds, electricity, and heat.
Check for ranger programs: Many parks offer educational activities for children. Prince Gallitzin State Park hosts special events: "We participated in the Outdoors for Everyone event. The site was clean, decently level area for tents, accessible to potable water and bathrooms with showers. Rangers were wonderful to work with in setting up teaching opportunities for the girls."
Tips from RVers
Verify site dimensions and access: Campground loops often have different characteristics affecting RV access. "In my opinion, the best sites to stay at if you have kids are sites 145–171 as those are right beside the jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit," suggests a Friendship Village reviewer. State park websites typically provide detailed site maps with dimensions.
Check for dump station facilities: Quality varies between campgrounds. Seven Points offers exceptional facilities: "We filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station. The signage was very well marked and the fresh water spigot was more like a little tank, super-solid, clean and modern." Many campgrounds charge additional fees for dumping if you're not a registered guest.
Select sites based on leveling needs: Terrain impacts how easily you can position your RV. "We pulled into Ridge Camp and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us," shares a Seven Points visitor. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds due to their mountainous terrain.
