Camping cabins near Stoystown, Pennsylvania provide rustic to modern accommodations in the Laurel Highlands region, situated at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,800 feet with seasonal temperature shifts. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Fall brings vibrant foliage displays while spring features abundant rainfall that can affect unpaved access roads.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Ohiopyle State Park offers extensive recreation opportunities beyond just camping. "The trail around the lake was incredible for biking - highly recommend! Everything in this park and campground are extremely well marked and maintained," noted one visitor about the park's facilities.
Bouldering and climbing: Laurel Hill State Park Campground has 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 with a close location to the seven springs ski resort," according to a camper's review.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes provide ample fishing. A visitor to Pioneer Park Campground noted the "Big fishing lakes" while another mentioned "Lots of very well maintained large sights all pull through... Three large lakes, fishing. One of our very favorite places to camp."
Flight 93 Memorial visit: Located approximately 22 miles from several area campgrounds, this national memorial provides a sobering experience. One camper mentioned it was a "Good overnight stop to visit Flight 93 Memorial 22 miles from campground."
What campers like
Lake access: Rocky Gap State Park Campground offers water activities beyond swimming. "You can rent kayaks, canoes, and SUPs, or bring your own for no launch fee," mentioned one visitor. Another appreciated that "the campground has their own beach so it's not over crowded with the public."
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature spacious, tree-covered sites. A camper at Hickory Hollow Campground noted, "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."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "Clean toilet-shower building that are heavily used" noted one camper, while another stated, "The bathhouse was kept very clean, even though the campground was full."
Proximity to attractions: The central location provides access to multiple outdoor recreation areas. "Very close to several state parks for great hiking and biking," mentioned one visitor, while another appreciated being "Easy access from the PA Turnpike."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly, even within the same park. A visitor to Shawnee State Park Campground cautioned, "Many sites were not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level, and we did not have a problem finding one. Some sites have gravel pads that were level and vary in length from 20' to 115'."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds offer potable water at individual sites. "The water was non potable so bring with," mentioned one camper. Others noted varying hookup options, with some sites offering full hookups while others provide only electric.
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations mean temperature fluctuations and potential storms. "Unfortunately yesterday a storm knocked out the power supply for the campground," reported one visitor.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor advised, "We heeded the advice of other reviewers warning that many sites were not level and did not reserve ahead of time. A Monday in mid-October had many open sites."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access: Look for campgrounds with designated beach areas. "Nice swimming and kayaking/small boating. The campground was nice, quiet and clean," reported a visitor. Another mentioned "Great swimming and canoeing on the lake."
Playground availability: Kooser State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "There was a nice playground area for kids and some nice overflow tent sites nearby," noted one camper. Another mentioned the park is "great for families to get away. Quiet and scenic, great trails."
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds welcome pets, though restrictions may apply. "A small but convenient off-leash dog area was also a wonderful amenity," mentioned one camper, while another appreciated that "The parks are pet friendly."
Noise considerations: Some loops or areas may be quieter than others. "Be Sure to Pick the Right Loop," advised one camper. "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."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for proper setup. "The sites are REALLY not level because the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites," noted one RVer. Another advised to "Double check site booked... We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked."
Hookup locations: Electric and water connections may be awkwardly placed. "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," warned one visitor.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging entrances or internal roads. "Roads are small and a mix of asphalt, gravel and dirt," noted an RVer, while another mentioned "The roads around the camp ground could use some maintenance, especially on the hill side by the pool!"
Dump station availability: Not all sites have full hookups. "Easy access to the dump station as you exit," mentioned one reviewer, which is important for longer stays without sewer connections.
