Keystone State Park Campground features two distinct camping sections with different visitor experiences. The Hillside Loop offers more secluded woodland sites with increased privacy between campers, while the lakeside area provides direct water access but less seclusion. Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources maintains this 1,200-acre park which includes a 78-acre lake and operates on a seasonal schedule from April through October. Most tent sites include concrete pads measuring 30 feet in length.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Keystone State Park's 78-acre lake supports multiple fish species. "Small lake where you can fish, paddle boat, and swim. Quiet hours and parking are strictly enforced," notes Joseph S. about Keystone State Park Campground.
Historic exploration: The visitor center provides regional context and background. "The visitors center at Keystone was beautiful and informative of the local history which was very interesting how the park first came about," explains Doreen M. after visiting Keystone State Park.
Hiking at McConnells Mill: Located near some glamping options, these trails follow scenic creek paths. "From our campsite we walked along the creek into McConnells Mill State Park and joined the covered bridge trail. Approx. 30min walk along the creek," reports Britt B. about staying at Breakneck Campground.
Water recreation: Beyond swimming, boat rentals are available at reasonable rates. "Kayak rental of $15 for an hour was the cheapest we have seen and allowed us to explore more of the lake," mentions Erik E. about his experience at Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private creek-side camping: Some glamping sites near Tarentum offer secluded water-adjacent options. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. There are designated fireplaces. It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek," shares Britt B. about her experience.
Friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain community-focused environments. "Very quiet and friendly place, bathhouse are extremely clean," notes Tanner B. about his stay at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, which offers glamping accommodations alongside traditional camping.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate room to spread out. "Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away. Firewood available for purchase," reports Dena L. about Fox Den Acres Campground.
Family activities: Organized events keep children entertained. "Every week they organizes different themes for bingo, and other games. They also have Sunday pancake days," explains Evelyn T. about the activities available during her stay at Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Elevation and terrain vary significantly. "The campsite and bathrooms were clean when we arrived and when we left. The site numbering is a bit wonky on the dog loop so make sure you look at your map before you start driving the loops," advises Erik E.
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping facilities operate on restricted schedules. "Mostly an RV campground, but several tent sites. Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight," notes Dena L.
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly. "We decided to go here for our first RV trip as it is close to home for us. Great first experience! We stayed at site 43 in the Hillside Loop because we brought our 2 large dogs. Site was very private and relatively flat," shares Kevin E. about Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping.
Noise levels: Quiet hours enforcement varies by location. "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 so I just put our tent on the concrete pad site 96," explains Daniel F.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many glamping sites welcome pets with designated areas. "Super close to a local ice cream shop and has a great dog park and is fully paved. Large fishing area and Camp store!" reports Owen I. about Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping.
Water features for children: Pools and water parks enhance family visits. "Mill run by far the best yogi bear/campground we have been to. Second time we have been & they have upgraded the water slides 4 huge slides plus big splash pad with little slide for smaller kids," shares Erik W. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run.
Activity variety: Look for campgrounds with organized entertainment. "This Yogi Bear campground offers a large waterpark area, large pool, monster truck rides and many activities. You don't have to leave to find something to do," explains Terra B. about Jellystone Park.
Playground access: Dedicated play areas provide recreation options. "The park features a pool, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area at the end of one of the loops," notes a recent visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require adjustment. "The sites in the lower field, where I was, were roomy and level and all pull-throughs," shares Judith R. about Fox Den Acres Campground.
Electrical hookup locations: Power connections may require special equipment. "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," advises Erik E.
Water conservation: Limited tank capacity requires planning. "If you stay in one of the smaller kabins with a shower, just know there will be a flood and you should wet, turn the water off, lather, then rinse. Also don't think everyone is showering one after the other," warns Jess I.
Dump station access: Clean and functional facilities receive positive reviews. "Dump station - 2 way and potable water on the other side of it. The only place to drop your trash too," notes Shannon G. about her experience at Tomlinson Run State Park Campground.
