Raccoon Creek State Park Campground provides 185 sites with access to over 40 miles of hiking trails and a lake for swimming and fishing. The campground sits within 7,572 acres of forested land at an elevation of approximately 1,100 feet, offering a cooler climate than surrounding areas during summer months. Most camping areas are open April through October with varying degrees of privacy between loops.
What to do
Horseback riding on Sundays: At Bear Run Campground, families can enjoy guided horse rides as a special weekend activity. As camper Jeani B. notes, "My son loves the horse rides on Sundays," making this a unique attraction not available at most campgrounds in the region.
Primitive creek camping: For more secluded camping experiences, Breakneck Campground offers walk-in sites by the water. "We were lucky enough to be able to camp down by the stream. 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," explains camper Britt B.
Winter hiking options: Some dog friendly campgrounds near Warrendale maintain trail access even during winter months. Jay R. from Raccoon Creek State Park shares, "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
Spacious ridgetop camping: Mountain Top Campground offers elevated sites with panoramic views. Jennifer H. describes it as "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." These sites provide more separation than typical campgrounds.
Swimming opportunities: The region offers several pet-accommodating campgrounds with water recreation. Mariana N. from Raccoon Creek recalls, "We made a fire, hiked by the moonlight and swam at the warm lake at night." The lake provides relief during hot summer days.
First-timer friendly atmosphere: Indian Brave Campground caters to camping newcomers with extra support. A recent visitor shares, "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
Varying noise levels: Campgrounds closer to Pittsburgh may experience airport noise. A camper at Raccoon Creek mentions, "Only downside is you can hear the airport. Not a huge deal though!" Consider midweek visits for quieter experiences.
Limited dish washing facilities: Not all pet-friendly camping areas include dedicated dish washing stations. Matthew D. at Rose Point Park Cabins & Camping notes, "There was no place to wash dishes (the closest thing we could find was a hose that was FAR away)," requiring campers to bring portable washing supplies.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly across Warrendale area campgrounds. Mountain Top Campground offers "full verizon coverage lte" according to James B., while at Breakneck Campground, "there is no phone reception at the tent sites by the creek" per Britt B.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for kids: Some pet-welcoming campgrounds include swimming pools as alternatives to natural water features. Amy S. at Bear Run Campground shares, "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."
Look for themed weekends: Several campgrounds host special events throughout the season. Terra B. recommends, "Halloween weekends are a great time to visit!" at Rose Point Park, which offers pumpkin carving contests and dance parties during fall.
Consider spacing between sites: For families needing more privacy, Joan K. advises, "I always camp near the horses as I like a bit more privacy. The front of the campground is a bit too packed for my liking. They also have a primitive area that is quite nice."
Tips from RVers
Grey water systems: Mountain Top Campground offers a unique solution for extended stays. Dave explains, "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."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. Corey L. advises about Mountain Top Campground: "The roads get narrow so if in an RV call them for the easiest way in. If you are Overlanding like us just follow the map."
Mid-week arrivals: For the best dog-accommodating sites, arrive Monday-Thursday when possible. Campgrounds fill quickly on weekends, particularly at places like Indian Brave where Kim S. reports, "We have stayed here in 2019, 2021, 2023 and now 2024. The owners and staff are wonderful, right on top of things."
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