Tent campsites near Sutersville, Pennsylvania are scattered along the Youghiogheny River valley, with elevations ranging from approximately 760 to 850 feet. The camping area experiences warm, humid summers with temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F and cool spring and fall seasons when overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s. Most primitive camping areas maintain seasonal availability from April through October, with several sites requiring accessibility via the Great Allegheny Passage trail system rather than by vehicle.
What to do
River access points: The Youghiogheny River provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling near Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes one camper who enjoyed cooling off during summer travels.
Historical exploration: Visit the cemetery near Dravo's Landing Campground for a glimpse into local history. A camper mentioned, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghost stories around the campfire." The cemetery contains graves dating back to the 19th century.
Biking access: Most tent campsites near Sutersville connect directly to the GAP Trail. The GAP Trail Campground offers what one visitor called "a short walk away" access to town, "with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well." This location makes an ideal basecamp for day trips along the trail.
What campers like
Community spaces: The GAP Trail Campground - Bikers Only receives high marks for its social areas. "The spacious and lush lawn has lots of space for tents, but the winner is the covered seating, dining, and cooking area," writes one reviewer who appreciated the communal setup.
Wildlife viewing: Night hours bring active wildlife, particularly at Round Bottom Camping Area at Slush Run. One camper described the experience as "very peaceful and though you can still visually see the GAP Trail, you are not disturbed by passing cyclists."
Firewood availability: Several Sutersville area campsites maintain stocked wood supplies. At Dravo's Landing, "the local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go," making campfires accessible without hauling in supplies. Campers should still verify seasonal availability.
What you should know
Water treatment needs: Water access varies significantly between sites. At Round Bottom, a camper warned, "The well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing. We grabbed water at the last town before the campground."
Weekend crowds: Popularity varies by season. For Round Bottom Camping Area, one visitor noted, "Bicycle traffic was fairly light during the week, so not only did you have the GAP Trail mostly to oneself, the camping areas were either sparsely filled or empty." Mid-week visits typically offer more solitude.
Food storage requirements: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions. One Dravo's Landing visitor warned: "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" Campers should bring appropriate containers or rope for hanging food.
Tips for camping with families
Tent pad selection: Laurel Ridge State Park Campground offers multiple camping areas with varying terrain. "I highly recommend hiking in from the northern end of the trail near Johnstown to the first camping area along the trail," suggests one camper, noting this section provides more level sites suitable for family tents.
Weather preparation: The region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, especially in spring and fall. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecast. One camper at Rhododendron Camping Area reported, "There was a fire place and a picnic table and an area to park your car. It was walking distance to the beautiful overlook." These amenities provide shelter options during weather changes.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between sites. A camper at Rhododendron Camping Area suggested: "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya! Also the bathrooms at the overlook are better maintained than the campground bathrooms plus the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent sites near Sutersville don't accommodate RVs. Indian Creek Camplands Inc is an exception, though a visitor noted it's "just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites." RVers should call ahead to confirm current access conditions.
Site levelness: Terrain throughout the region tends toward uneven surfaces. A camper at Indian Creek observed, "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites." RVers should bring leveling blocks and plan for potentially challenging positioning.
Seasonal access limitations: Many roads leading to camping areas near Sutersville become difficult to navigate during wet weather. RVers should check local conditions before arrival, especially after significant rainfall, and consider having a backup plan if access roads prove impassable.
