Camping near Tarentum, Pennsylvania offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities across hilly terrain. The region features significant elevation changes, with campgrounds situated anywhere from valley locations to true mountaintop settings at 1,200+ feet elevation. Most camping facilities in the area maintain spring-to-fall operating seasons, with some remaining open year-round for cold-weather camping.
What to Do
Creek exploration: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing provides access to a small creek where "kids play in and can float down," making it perfect for warm-weather water activities. The campground's creek access is particularly appreciated by families with young children.
Horseback riding: At Bear Run Campground, Sunday horse rides are available as noted by a camper: "My son loves the horse rides on Sundays." The campground combines equestrian activities with numerous recreational options.
Lake activities: The region offers multiple water-based recreation sites including Raccoon Creek State Park, where visitors enjoy swimming and wildlife viewing. According to one camper, it's "a great place to take the dog out to swim and chase geese and ducks. A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun."
Trail hiking: Multiple developed trail systems run through the area's state parks and recreation areas. One camper at Raccoon Creek State Park noted, "We did the Palomino Loop. It also was quite interesting getting to the trail. Some nice snow covered back roads."
What Campers Like
Event programming: Rustic Acres offers structured activities for younger campers, with one visitor noting, "our children enjoyed the Saturday kids program, crafts, snacks and games with other children." These organized activities supplement outdoor recreation options.
Community atmosphere: Several campgrounds foster social interactions among guests. A Rustic Acres camper mentioned, "I can't remember when we were at a campground where everyone said hi and waved to each other," highlighting the friendly environment.
Swimming options: Pine Cove Beach Club RV Resort features "a giant pool opened in the summer" according to one review. Another camper specifically praised "The pool & concession stand, beautifully maintained lawns and gravel campsites."
Scenic views: Several campgrounds feature elevated positions with panoramic vistas. One camper at Mountain Top Campground mentioned getting "a spot on looking over a very dense tree-d valley with a beautiful sunset. Sites 41-48 are the best view at sunset."
What You Should Know
Seasonal popularity: Fall foliage brings increased visitation across the region, with most campgrounds experiencing their busiest periods from late September through October. Availability can become limited, especially on weekends.
Terrain considerations: The topography around Tarentum creates challenges for some campers. At Raccoon Creek State Park Campground, a camper noted, "There is a trail that leads down from the tent loop to the beach which is cool but very very steep (not for too young or old)."
Weather impacts: Rainfall can affect camping conditions significantly. One camper at Fombell Landing reported, "The campground is entirely in a flood zone. It gets so deep the locals cars have floated away... Our camp area ended up in at least 6 inches of rushing creek water."
Facility variations: Restroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A camper at Raccoon Creek State Park described, "Clean rr's with good showers but a bit old," while another noted that bathroom facilities at one site were "rather dirty."
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning: Bear Run Campground schedules regular family-oriented events. A camper noted, "Every weekend there are activities, there is a heated pool and Friday night Bingo. A great place with even better people!"
Site selection: At Mountain Top Campground, families should consider specific sites for optimal comfort. One camper recommended: "Sites 41-48 are the best view at sunset."
Entertainment options: The Blue Canoe RV Resort provides multiple recreation facilities, with a camper noting it has "multiple pools, playsets, cabins and river sites. So quiet cept for the occasional train pass by across the river. Food ice cream and biking access and sites."
Playground access: Many families specifically seek campgrounds with dedicated play areas. One camper at Rustic Acres praised "the beautiful grounds, attention to detail–every detail–and exceptional service."
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies significantly across rv parks Tarentum, Pennsylvania area. While some campgrounds report strong signals, others have limited coverage based on terrain and location.
Access routes: Road conditions impact RV travel around Tarentum. Many campgrounds require navigation of narrow, winding rural roads. A Mountain Top Campground visitor advised: "The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in."
Hook-up configurations: Grey water disposal systems differ between campgrounds. At Mountain Top Campground, sites include "grey water disposal connections that run down the hillside," allowing campers to use showers and sinks without filling tanks.
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for potentially uneven sites. One visitor to Bear Run Campground noted it was "Very hilly" and "too hilly for kids to ride bikes," which impacts both vehicle positioning and recreational activities.
