Campers visiting Stoystown can access several public recreation areas within Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands region at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,800 feet. The area experiences distinct four-season climate patterns with summer highs averaging in the 80s and winter nights frequently dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds maintain extended seasonal operations from mid-April through late October, though select facilities offer year-round access.
What to do
Lake activities at Quemahoning Reservoir: Visitors to Quemahoning Family Recreation Area can enjoy fishing, swimming and boating. "Great place for fishing kayaking. Very family oriented," reports Kyle K. The facility includes boat rentals for those without personal watercraft.
Historic site visits: The Flight 93 Memorial sits approximately 20 miles from Pioneer Park Campground. "Good overnight stop to visit Flight 93 Memorial 22 miles from campground," notes Napunani. Several reviewers mention this significant national memorial as an important destination.
Loop hiking trails: Explore the 5-mile trail circling Lake Habeeb at Rocky Gap State Park Campground. "There is a 5 mile trail that goes all around the lake. Lots of lake to paddle," writes Marcandpatti B. The trail offers varied terrain and lake views throughout.
Small-scale bouldering: For climbing enthusiasts, Laurel Hill offers accessible rock formations. "There was easy little rocks to boulder and climb! and even a few smaller caves to explore!" writes Jill R. These formations provide entry-level climbing opportunities suitable for beginners and families.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Hickory Hollow Campground receives praise for spacious and private tent areas. "The covered wagon sites are isolated in their own clearing within the trees next to the lake. The other wagon wasn't booked so we had a huge double site to ourselves," shares Jessica D. The campground offers both traditional tent sites and unique accommodation options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds feature open green spaces adjacent to forested areas. "During the day you can watch cattle play on the hillside (no bad smells!) while looking out over the hills and mountains," notes Becky C. about Hickory Hollow Campground. These pastoral settings create animal watching opportunities.
Clean bathhouses: Despite high usage rates, campers frequently mention well-maintained facilities. "The bathroom was clean. Did not use the shower," reports Lee D. about Shawnee State Park. Multiple reviewers mention that park staff maintain restrooms regularly during busy periods.
Camp store conveniences: On-site stores eliminate long drives for forgotten essentials. "Front desk staff was wonderful & the camp store had basically everything you might need," writes Jessica D. Many campgrounds maintain small markets with camping supplies, firewood, and basic groceries.
What you should know
Variable site conditions: Level sites can be hard to find at some parks. "Most of the non-electric sites were decidedly not level but many of the FHU and electric sites were fairly level," notes Lee D. about Shawnee State Park Campground. First-time visitors should check site details before booking.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly throughout the region. "Fleeting cell at best on Verizon," reports Lee D. about Laurel Hill State Park. Campers should download maps and information prior to arrival.
Road noise considerations: Highway sounds affect some campgrounds. "I was woken up many times by the sound of trucks down shifting and braking," writes Sue J. about Rocky Gap State Park. Sites deeper in campgrounds typically experience less road noise.
Water access restrictions: Some parks limit swimming areas. "You cannot swim anywhere outside of the roped swim areas," notes Kimberly H. at Rocky Gap State Park. Rangers actively enforce these safety policies.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly beach options: For pet owners seeking dog friendly campgrounds near Stoystown, Rocky Gap State Park provides dedicated pet areas. "The dog beach was perfect," writes Sue J. This allows families with pets to enjoy water activities without restrictions.
Dedicated children's areas: Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers structured play spaces. "There is also a playground, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area at the end of one of the loops," notes Lee D. These amenities provide entertainment options between outdoor adventures.
Campground loop selection matters: Different sections within the same park offer varied experiences. "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," explains Casey L. about Laurel Hill. Research specific loops when booking pet friendly camping near Stoystown.
Rental equipment availability: Several parks offer on-site equipment rentals. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," shares Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park. These reasonable rates make water activities accessible without bringing personal gear.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning challenges: Many sites require extension cords or creative positioning. "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," explains Erik E. about Laurel Hill State Park. Extra extension cords are recommended.
Site leveling requirements: Pioneer Park Campground receives mixed reviews about site grading. "We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked. Luckily it was opening weekend and the rangers were super accommodating!" writes Brittany V. about Shawnee State Park. Leveling blocks may be necessary at most regional campgrounds.
Limited full hookup availability: Complete RV services are restricted to certain campgrounds and loops. "We were assigned what I believe was the best of the RV sites, a pull through that had full hook up," writes Gerard about Shawnee State Park. Reservations well in advance are recommended for these premium sites.
Dump station access: Clean dump facilities typically exist near campground exits. "Easy access to the dump station as you exit," notes Brittany V. about Shawnee State Park. This convenient positioning simplifies departure procedures.
