The Vanderbilt area sits in Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands region, where tent camping options cluster along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet. The nearby Youghiogheny River offers waterfront camping opportunities at several sites between miles 95-105 of the trail. Weather in this region varies dramatically by season, with summer highs averaging 80°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
River swimming: Access points near Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground provide cooling relief after long trail days. "The river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail," notes camper Shari G.
Visit historic sites: Tent campers can explore the old cemetery adjacent to Dravo's Landing Campground. As one visitor mentioned, "It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire."
Sunrise viewing: Early risers staying near Chestnut Ridge should make time for dawn lookouts. At nearby campsites, "Wake up early and watch the sunrise at the overlook I'm telling ya!" recommends Emily M., highlighting one of the region's special experiences.
What campers like
Adirondack shelters: Several sites along the GAP offer these covered structures as alternatives to tent setup. At Dravo's Landing, "There are about 4 lean-to's which can accommodate 4 sleepers, or one 2-person tent."
Spacious tent areas: Many campgrounds in this region provide ample room for groups. At Big Run State Park Campground, "There was a lot of space between each site and it was very peaceful," though one camper warns that "the mosquitos sucked."
Natural sound landscapes: Stream-side camping creates peaceful white noise. Katie H. notes that at certain sites, "You can set up your camp chair and enjoy the creek sounds," making for particularly restful tent camping near Vanderbilt.
What you should know
Water filtration needs: Hand pumps at some sites may not provide reliable drinking water. At Lake Eron Park, like many primitive sites in the area, bringing water or a quality filter system is essential.
Train noise: Railroad lines parallel many camping areas, creating nighttime disturbances. As Shari G. advises about camping near the trail, "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 if you hope to sleep!"
Seasonal availability: Campgrounds have varying operating seasons. Laurel Ridge State Park's eight camping areas are typically open "May to October," while other sites might have year-round access depending on weather conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Keep food secured overnight at all GAP trail campsites. Sarah Q. warns, "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!"
Fishing opportunities: Kids can observe aquatic life at stream-adjacent sites. At Rhododendron Camping Area, campers report streams "lively with trout and crayfish," providing natural entertainment for children.
Bathroom planning: Facilities vary greatly between sites. Emily M. notes that at some campgrounds, "the camp bathroom light didn't work while we were visiting so it got a littttttle creepy after sunset," suggesting bringing flashlights for nighttime bathroom trips.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Several primitive sites can accommodate modest-sized campers despite being primarily tent-focused. At Indian Creek Camplands Inc, Christopher M. reports it's a "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard. Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites."
Hybrid trailer suitability: Some nearby campgrounds can handle larger trailer setups. One camper at Big Run State Park used "lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek."
Alternative accommodation: For those who want tent camping near Vanderbilt without actually pitching a tent, seek out specialized options. The Laurel Highlands Hemp Cannabis Farm offers "One yurt with a bed" that "overlooks the Laurel Highlands Hemp field, and surrounding mountains."
