Camping near Warrendale, Pennsylvania typically peaks during July and August when regional temperatures average 78-85°F. The area sits within the Appalachian foothills at elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October with limited year-round options.
What to do
Horseback riding opportunities: Bear Run Campground offers regular Sunday horse rides that appeal to families with children. As one camper noted, "My son loves the horse rides on Sundays" while another mentioned the campground "has a fenced dog run area and a beautiful lake."
Lake activities at Moraine State Park: Located 25 miles from Warrendale, the park features a large lake with multiple recreation options. A camper explains, "Moraine is a really large state park with a huge lake, nice beaches, and tons of trails. The north country trail runs for over a dozen miles from end to end."
Trail exploration at Raccoon Creek: The state park maintains well-marked hiking paths through western Pennsylvania woodlands. One visitor shared their winter experience: "Got out for a couple hours hiking in the snow. It was great. Just what we needed to stretch the legs and enjoy some family time. We did the Palomino Loop."
What campers like
Scenic camping at Mountain Top: The elevated position of Mountain Top Campground creates distinctive camping experiences. A camper described it: "You come up a winding road and emerge atop the mountain. It's cute. Wide open grass land with sites around the perimeter. Half a dozen of them (premium) are at the edge and have a nice view to the hills beyond."
Creek-side primitive camping: Breakneck Campground offers secluded sites along a waterway. One visitor reported, "We definitely lucked out with one of the best campsites; we were right next to the creek, it was super spacious and super private." Another added, "There are designated fireplaces. It is quite a walk up the hill to the campground amenities, but worth it to feel secluded down by the creek."
First-time camping experiences: Several Warrendale area campgrounds cater to novice campers. At Indian Brave Campground, a first-timer shared, "As first time travel trailer owners, they helped us accomplish our first trip away! Upon calling to book a site, we mentioned this was our first trip, they made the utmost effort to accommodate us with all of our needs."
What you should know
Limited tent camping privacy: Not all campgrounds offer secluded tent sites. One camper at Raccoon Creek noted, "It is a really large campground with lots of adjoining loops. The area is not wooded at all and most sites look right into the sites next to them. If you are like me and crave privacy, avoid."
Weekend atmosphere variations: Some locations have different vibes on weekends versus weekdays. A Breakneck Campground visitor cautioned, "I was here the Friday of Labor day weekend. The woman who took my reservation was great and the grounds were nice. The 2 stars is due to the fact i was surrounded by people who were beyond drunk, obnoxious and extremely loud."
Seasonal camper prevalence: Many campgrounds host primarily seasonal residents. At Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping, a visitor observed, "A small campground that didn't have many kids for ours to play with during our visit. In addition, hill keeps permanent campers separate from temporary campers."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-oriented campgrounds: For families seeking organized events, Bear Run Campground stands out. A regular camper shared, "We loved camping at Bear Run so much we bought an old trailer and we now park it there year around. Every weekend there are activities, there is a heated pool and Friday night Bingo."
Swimming options with children: Raccoon Creek State Park Campground offers water recreation suitable for families. A visitor mentioned, "A great little beach area to lay out and enjoy the sun. The hiking trails are in excellent condition and the park keeps them clear of fallen debris."
Theme weekend experiences: Seasonal celebrations enhance family camping experiences. At Rose Point, a visitor detailed, "We stayed for their Halloween Weekend. The Day before they Called us to make sure that we were still coming and to confirm the reservation and offered us a FREE site upgrade! Halloween events included Pumpking Carving Contest, Voting On Pumpkins, Campstore Sales, and a Dance Party."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. A Mountain Top Campground visitor advised, "The hardest part is finding it. The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in. Great scenic routes and close to the spot you want to see in Pittsburgh."
Hookup limitations: RV campers should research utility options beforehand. At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, which is accessible from Warrendale, a visitor noted, "Most of the camp sites have electricity, but most aren't level. It's the kind of place that has some really great sits and some not so great."
Grey water disposal solutions: Some campgrounds offer creative solutions for extended stays. One Mountain Top visitor explained, "Since they sit atop the mountain, the grey water hookup is a long hose that has an adapter which hooks up to your black and grey tank outlet and it runs down the hillside of the mountain into the grassy area."
