Tent campsites near Tarentum, Pennsylvania offer multiple wilderness options connecting river access with trail systems. Most primitive sites sit along the Youghiogheny River corridor, accessible primarily by bike or foot via the Great Allegheny Passage. Campers can expect variable water access depending on the site, with most campgrounds experiencing regular train noise from nearby rail lines.
What to do
River access points: At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, campers can easily reach the Youghiogheny River for swimming. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes Shari G., who visited in 2021.
Ghost stories: At several sites including Dravo's Landing Campground, campers can explore unusual features. One reviewer mentions, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," making it popular for evening entertainment.
Bike touring preparation: Sites near Pittsburgh serve as ideal starting points for longer journeys. According to Shari G., Dravo's Landing is "a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail (it's the last one before Pittsburgh!), and a nice easy introduction to bikepacking camping for the east-bound."
What campers like
Spacious grounds: Many campsites offer ample room for large groups. Sarah Q. notes about Dravo's Landing: "We camped out overnight with a group of 14 people, and there was plenty of room for everyone to pitch their tents and spend a relaxing night under the stars."
Maintained facilities: The GAP Trail Campground receives praise for its cleanliness. "Everything is clean as a whistle…pun intended. Here's where that luxury kicks in, so much that you'll wonder if what you're doing still qualifies as camping," writes Shari G.
Shelter options: Multiple campgrounds offer structures beyond tent sites. The GAP Trail Campground features "covered seating, dining, and cooking area," while Roundbottom provides "lean-tos, picnic tables, firepits and lots of spaces for tents."
What you should know
Train disruptions: Nearly all riverside tent sites experience train noise. One camper at Roundbottom warns: "It's not the train horn but the number of turns in the track and the squealing breaks that keep you up -- so bring good earplugs!"
Varying water quality: At Danner Primitive Campground, water comes from a spring that requires treatment. Casey L. notes there is "a spring for water which says to boil before drinking."
Wildlife concerns: Food storage matters at these campgrounds. At Dravo's Landing, Sarah Q. cautions: "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Permit requirements: Unlike GAP trail sites, some campgrounds have stay limitations. Casey L. explains that at Danner Primitive Campground "you must get a permit to stay more than one night. They are first come first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Site visibility: At Mountain View Camps, families can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities. Richard C. mentions you "might even see an albino fawn" while exploring the area.
Activity variety: Multiple sites near Tarentum offer diverse recreation options. Mountain View Camps is "close to hiking trails and fishing spots. Hit the mountain bike track, explore the ruins on the game lands," according to reviewers.
Nearby town access: When camping at The GAP Trail Campground, families can easily reach services. "Town is a short walk away, with a few restaurants and other options for necessities as well," which helps when camping with kids who might need additional supplies.
Tips from RVers
Limited accessibility: Most tent campsites near Tarentum have difficult RV access. At Indian Creek Camplands, Christopher M. notes it's "just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Site leveling challenges: RVers should bring leveling blocks to most area campgrounds. Christopher M. specifically mentions: "Not the most level areas" at Indian Creek Camplands, making proper setup equipment essential.
Season considerations: Many tent campgrounds in the region have limited operating seasons. Laurel Ridge State Park Campground operates from "May to October," requiring off-season alternatives for RV camping near Tarentum.
