Seasonal camping around Tyrone, Pennsylvania features several parks within mountainous terrain at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with cooler evening temperatures in the 50s. Campground terrain often requires leveling equipment for RVs due to the rolling landscape characteristic of the Allegheny Mountains.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Waterside Campground (formerly Locust Campground) sits directly alongside the Juniata River with excellent waterfront sites. "Great setup location. Easy in and out, full utilities. Water is easy access, pool is heated. Rates are reasonable, store is basic. Come here every year, worth the trip," notes Michael L. Sites 48-53 provide the best river views.
Family outdoor activities: Honey Bear Campground offers year-round paddling and hiking access to Raystown Lake. "Can paddle and hike year round and camp in the spring, summer and fall. Amazing camp sites and several have beautiful lookouts over the lake," writes Elizabeth K. The campground recently changed ownership and maintains seasonal operation from April 15 to October 15.
Special events: Weekend programming at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA includes themed activities like Bigfoot Weekend with BBQ dinners, rock painting, bingo, and DJ dance parties. "We stayed during Bigfoot weekend. It was super fun as our family likes bigfoot fun. We started out Friday night getting the offered $12 bbq plate that included pork burnt ends, beans and potato salad," reports Paul B. Sunday activities include pancake breakfasts and educational programs.
What campers like
Clean, maintained facilities: Friendship Village Campground receives consistent praise for upkeep and amenities. "Sites are very spacious and the gravel pad was level upon parking. Good connections and solid cable. Facilities are well maintained and there are a ton of activities to enjoy," writes Brittany V. The campground features multiple playgrounds, jumping pillows, and mini-golf.
Spacious waterfront sites: At Timber Run Campground, riverside sites offer direct water access. "Absolutely beautiful if you are riverside. Staff was friendly and helpful. Typical overall, but clean and pretty. Stay on the waterside! Sites 48-53. Stayed at 49, it was absolutely perfection!" recommends Matthew S. The campground features 67 full-hookup sites on gravel pads.
Helpful management: The new owners at Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA receive positive feedback for their customer service. "If you're looking for a quiet, smaller friendly spot to spend a few day camping or in a cabin, you're doing yourself an injustice if you don't choose Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA!" writes Doug J. The staff maintains a clean pool and provides personalized assistance to campers throughout their stay.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Tyrone operate seasonally with limited winter availability. Honey Bear Campground runs from April 15 to October 15, while Prince Gallitzin State Park operates "2nd Friday in April to last Monday in October." Some campgrounds modify schedules during shoulder seasons with reduced amenities.
Terrain challenges: Navigating to campsites often requires driving on mountain roads with significant elevation changes. "Overall the sites are hilly and in fact the whole park is on a hill," notes Paul B. about Timber Run Campground. Most parks recommend bringing leveling blocks for RVs and campers.
Site limitations: Specific site requests require advance planning. At Friendship Village Campground, "the sites are close together, but for a weekend getaway it isn't unbearable," mentions Shelby B. Sites with water views or premium amenities book quickly, especially during peak summer season.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple recreation options: Friendship Village includes diverse family amenities across its property. "The kids played mini golf, jumped on the pillow, played on multiple playgrounds, enjoyed ice cream and went fishing. Can't wait to come back in the summer," reports Tasha M. The campground maintains three distinct playground areas suitable for different age groups.
Kid-friendly swimming: Crooked Run Campground at Prince Gallitzin State Park offers family beach access. "Great place for kids! We love staying at crooked run campground. Has a beach on the lake. Affordable boat rentals. BMX track for kids," notes Jackie W. All sites feature paved pads, making them accessible for families with strollers or wheeled equipment.
Educational opportunities: Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA incorporates learning activities into their programming. "On Sunday we had pancakes and later a visit from RayCEP which is an education program that PA DNCR provides talking about various outdoorsy type things. This is primarily for kids, but we sat and listened too," explains Paul B. These programs typically run during weekend stays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: For RV camping near Tyrone, Pennsylvania, choose sites based on rig size and preferences. At Timber Run Campground, Paul B. advises: "Site 22 is a deluxe patio back in site with a patio, 4 nice Adirondack chairs, a double glider, a weber propane grill and built in fire pit AND a dog fence just for that site that was maybe 6 ft x 6ft."
Route recommendations: RVers should plan travel routes carefully through mountain terrain. "If traveling from the Altoona area, go out through Martinsburg over Cove Mountain Rd - it saves you 30 minutes to an hour," suggests Paul B. Local knowledge helps navigate the challenging mountain roads common throughout the region.
Bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower facilities. Dawn C. from Raystown Lake/Saxton KOA notes simply, "Bathrooms are Soo nice." This practical consideration matters for RVers without onboard bathrooms or those preferring to conserve tank capacity during longer stays.
