Camping spots near Vanderbilt, Pennsylvania typically feature forested terrain with elevations ranging between 1,000-2,500 feet in the Laurel Highlands region. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-April through October, with limited winter camping options available at select facilities.
What to do
Whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny: Multiple outfitters near Ohiopyle State Park offer trips ranging from mild to wild. "We chose Wilderness Voyageurs across the river, over the tracks and to the right. Time and finances limited us to a 'family friendly' float self-guided raft down the Middle Yough... laced with minimal Class 1 and 2 rapids, which I would classify as riffles. The float took three hours, was relaxing, serene and full of solitude," noted one visitor.
Hiking the Laurel Highlands: The region features miles of hiking trails through forests and along waterways. A camper at Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground mentioned, "We stayed for 2 nights while we visited Fallingwater and the Flight 93 Memorial. We should have stayed another night so we could visit Fort Necessity NP just down the road but ran out of time."
Cycling the Great Allegheny Passage: This rail-trail runs directly through several camping areas near Vanderbilt. According to a cyclist who stayed at The Blue Canoe RV Resort, "The GAP trail rolls right through the middle of this traditional KOA campground... This is a very busy campground, nothing like the serenity of the less easy to access sites along the GAP trail, but offers some nice services for those in need of them."
Fishing local waters: Many campgrounds near Vanderbilt offer fishing access. "We have a wonderful, big electric and water site. We have a wonderful, big electric and water site... Small pond in middle of campground - great for fishing. Amazing stay!" reported a visitor at Scarlett Knob Campground.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Unlike crowded campgrounds, some areas near Vanderbilt offer secluded sites. A visitor to Scarlett Knob Campground noted, "It's very cheap and rustic. The sites are pretty spread out and full of trees. So for tent camping it is fantastic. Each site feels very private and the atmosphere is great."
Water activities: Swimming pools and water features are popular amenities. One family staying at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run commented, "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 & the original 2 big water slides in woods."
Natural features: The surrounding landscape offers scenic views and outdoor exploration. A camper at Tall Oaks Campground mentioned, "The spots are huge and mostly very private- I prefer back country camping and not in actual campgrounds- this place is a nice compromise for my girlfriends who aren't as outdoorsy!"
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-cost camping areas. A visitor to Round Bottom Camping Area explained, "There is plenty of grassy area for scores of tents in this area. So if you are not fortunate enough to secure one of the two Shelters or tent pads, you can still set up a tent in the nicely mowed areas, which are still level."
What you should know
Weather impacts: The region's climate affects camping experiences year-round. A visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground reported, "We were hoping to do some hiking in the morning but got rained out. However the trails looked nice and we hope to be back soon."
Site conditions vary significantly: Terrain and site quality differ widely between campgrounds. One camper observed, "Looking around the rest of the campground, the loop up near the cabins was a typical RV area with sites lined up with little privacy in between. I would look at the other loops for our next tent-camping visit."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and cleanliness of facilities varies across campgrounds. A visitor to Scarlett Knob Campground commented, "The only thing that I was unimpressed with was the bathrooms/showers. I felt dirtier after showering."
Train noise: Railroad tracks along the Youghiogheny River can disrupt sleep. A camper at Round Bottom Camping Area noted, "The only negative was the train traffic on the opposite side of the River...it is loud when they rumble through. If you don't sleep with ear-plugs, you will wish you had."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. A reviewer at Ohiopyle State Park mentioned, "Our Sprint hotspot didn't work well (unboosted), but our Verizon did."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated activities: Some facilities offer regular programming for children. A family staying at Fox Den Acres Campground shared, "Wonderful campground. They provide activities almost every evening, making sure everything age range is catered to throughout the week."
Consider accessibility needs: Some campsites require strenuous access. One visitor noted, "Tent site was nice and conveniently located next to the bathhouse," making it easier for families with young children.
Look for natural play opportunities: Kids enjoy unstructured outdoor exploration. A parent camping at Tall Oaks reported, "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform. Kids had a great time and lots of activities for them to do!"
Pack for varying temperatures: Even summer nights can be cool in the Laurel Highlands. The elevation changes throughout the region cause temperature variations of 5-10 degrees, requiring layered clothing options for comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. A visitor to The Blue Canoe RV Resort mentioned, "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped. On my way out I heard they were having someone come in to level the sites so I imagine it was just the time of year we visited."
Road access considerations: Narrow roads can present challenges for larger rigs. "Roads going to campsites are rocky so be careful if you have a low car," advised a camper at Scarlett Knob.
Utility placement: Some campgrounds have inconveniently positioned hookups. A visitor to Laurel Hill State Park Campground noted, "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."
Campsite selection matters: Review sites carefully before booking. An RVer at Fox Den Acres explained, "Some sites are a bit close, the pull through sites are very ample. Gravel roads and level sites. Lots of grass areas for play and walking."
