Camping near Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania offers several options within the Allegheny Mountains, where elevation varies from 1,000 to 2,900 feet throughout the region. The area sits at the foothills of Pennsylvania's second-highest peak, creating significant temperature variations between higher elevation campgrounds and those in the valleys. Average summer temperatures at higher elevation sites can be 5-10 degrees cooler than valley locations, requiring additional layers even during summer camping trips.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Seven Points campground provides access to the extensive Allegrippis Trail system with IMBA standard built trails. As a reviewer notes, "The mtb trails begin just above the upper camp loops and provide a full day of fast flowing singletrack" and are "open year round and in any weather." These trails are accessible directly from the Ridge campground loop.
Fishing in multiple locations: Lake Raystown and surrounding creeks offer diverse fishing opportunities. At Pat's Primitive Place, a reviewer mentioned, "Right around the corner from our site was a great spot along the river for sitting out in the sun and fishing for trout." Fishing access points are available at multiple locations around Raystown Lake.
BMX track access: Beyond standard camping activities, Prince Gallitzin State Park offers unique recreation options. One camper highlighted that the park has a "BMX track for kids" among its amenities, providing an alternative activity for families looking beyond hiking and water sports.
What campers like
Waterfront accessibility: Susquehannock Campground offers primitive camping with direct lake access. A reviewer described their experience: "Some site right on the water, can walk right into the lake. Beautiful scenery, be prepared to be woken by bass boats and subsequent wake at sunrise." Sites 51, 52, and 53 were specifically recommended as "best waterfront with parking."
Spacious, level sites: Ridge Camp at Seven Points receives consistent praise for site quality. One camper noted, "We pulled into Ridge Camp and drove a little bit down a hill to our site. One backup attempt into the site and it was perfectly level...that was definitely a first for us." The limestone pads are described as "very flat and level, so setting out our rugs was easy and comfortable underneath our feet."
Clean facilities: The bathroom facilities at many campgrounds receive positive reviews. A camper at Raystown Lake / Saxton KOA shared, "They a friendly, willing to help anyway they can, and keep the place spotless. It looks like they have recently remodeled the bathrooms/showers (3 of the 4 look brand new), and the pool has been crystal clear."
What you should know
Campground elevation affects temperatures: Blue Knob State Park sits on Pennsylvania's second highest peak, creating unique camping conditions. A camper explained, "Come prepared for short rain showers, chilly air even in the summer, and great views." The elevation means temperatures can be significantly cooler than surrounding areas.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Trough Creek State Park, a reviewer noted "there's absolutely 0 cell service. We have Verizon." However, other campgrounds like Pat's Primitive Place report "great phone service at the site and nearby (Verizon)."
Terrain and site layout considerations: Many campgrounds feature varied terrain that impacts site selection. At Susquehannock, "Most of the campsites are on a slight slope but they're still bearable." Similarly, at Seven Points, "With the slope, however be aware of the kids and adults riding around on bicycles and skateboards."
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities for children: Several campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas. A reviewer at Prince Gallitzin State Park shared, "It's a very nice place to camp, people are friendly, boating-fishing-swimming-hiking. Something to do for everyone." Another camper mentioned it has a "Great camp sites and friendly staff."
Playground proximity: When booking at Seven Points, consider proximity to playground facilities. A reviewer noted, "Each loop has a playground and bathhouse" and "Valley Camp was a single in/out with a loop around the playground." This makes certain loops more suitable for families with young children.
Educational opportunities: Lake Raystown area offers learning experiences for children. A camper described, "The visitors center has a great educational area inside and a nature trail outside. Across from the visitors center is a mountain bike park." These facilities provide opportunities for both recreation and education during family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: Seven Points campground has superior dump facilities compared to many area campgrounds. A reviewer detailed, "We filled up the fresh water tank at the ultra-cool 4 lane dump station" and noted the "dump station, as noted above had wide lanes and made the experience an easy and clean one." The fresh water spigot was described as "more like a little tank, super-solid, clean and modern."
Site selection for larger RVs: When booking at Lake Raystown Resort, RVers should be cautious about certain campground sections. One camper warned, "We explored the 'red carpet' row up on the hill. What a joke. Gravel pads skinnier in some instances then a TT is wide. One wrong step and you'd fall into the woods." They recommended waterfront sites with cement pads instead.
Laundry facilities: Seven Points offers affordable laundry options, with a reviewer noting "Ridge has a laundromat at only 25¢/load." This is substantially less expensive than laundry facilities at many other campgrounds in the region, making it ideal for extended stays.
