Glamping experiences near Verona, Pennsylvania offer access to the Laurel Highlands region, which ranges in elevation from 1,600 to 2,900 feet and features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The area averages 48 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush landscapes but sometimes challenging camping conditions during spring and fall. Most luxury camping accommodations remain open from April through October, closing during the winter months.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Ohiopyle State Park features numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "From the campground trails head mostly straight down the mountain to the river or to the Great Allegheny Passage mult-use trail... So give yourself time to climb them, as there are many switchbacks... pretty much straight up... but doable."
Swimming options: The pool at Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping provides a heated option when natural swimming areas are too cold. "They have a nice heated large pool, hiking trails close to some great places like McConnells mill, Morane state park, Fishing the shenango river."
Seasonal activities: Fox Den Acres schedules themed weekend events throughout their April-October season. "Halloween weekends are a great time to visit!" Many campgrounds organize different activities based on the month, with fall events being particularly popular among families seeking glamping experiences.
What campers like
Large sites: Campers appreciate the spacious accommodations at Fox Den Acres Campground. "Sites are super spacious and well shaded. Each site was very spacious and well shaded. Fire ring and table at each sight. Restroom were a short walk away."
Diverse sleeping arrangements: Keystone State Park Campground offers options from tent sites to upscale accommodations. "The hillside one doesn't get near the crowds and it set in the woods. There are some very secluded sites." This variety allows glampers to choose their preferred comfort level.
Water features: Water access remains important for many luxury campers. "The lake at Laurel Hill State Park provides a great place to fish and the walking trail has some less used fishing spots if you are willing to walk. We enjoyed the easy walking lake trail with the kids because it was wide and flat."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Glamping sites can vary dramatically in privacy and setting within the same campground. "There are 2 campgrounds in the park, the hillside one and the one on the lake. The lakeside one is a glorified trailer park and is packed during the summer with no privacy."
Variable bathroom quality: Even at premium sites, bathrooms may not meet expectations. "The restroom and all the bathhouses badly need updating. The paint is peeling, they smell like mildew and the siding is rotting on them. They are clean but the creepy and gross factor are too much."
Advance planning required: Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA and other glamping facilities fill quickly during peak season. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Many families travel with pets, making designated areas important. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "We were on the outside edge of the pet loop so there was some nice shade there. Everyone was friendly. And what a lovely state park." Dog-friendly glamping accommodations typically charge an additional cleaning fee.
Playground access: Tomlinson Run State Park Campground offers dedicated play areas. "Playground is available for kids and a huge shelter house too." When booking, request sites near play areas if traveling with young children.
Swimming alternatives: When natural water isn't ideal, look for campgrounds with pools. "The beaches were great. We went canoeing on the lake. And had fun just hiking around a bit." Most glamping sites with pools operate them from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with limited hours during shoulder seasons.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many glamping sites require effort to level larger rigs. "The RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites." Bring extra leveling blocks when visiting mountainous areas around Verona.
Hook-up placement: Some older parks have awkwardly positioned utilities. "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."
Seasonal considerations: Breakneck Campground and similar facilities have different seasonal character. "We weren't to sure what to expect as we usually camp in much more remote areas, but we enjoyed the park very much." Weekdays typically offer more privacy and quiet for glamping experiences than weekends.
