Tent sites along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail form the backbone of primitive camping options near Washington, Pennsylvania. The trail connects Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, offering linear camping access for hikers and cyclists. Most sites sit within earshot of railroad tracks running parallel to the Youghiogheny River, creating a distinctive camping environment where train whistles and rushing water provide the soundtrack for overnight stays. Some smaller, independent campgrounds also exist in the surrounding countryside within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
River access: The Youghiogheny River provides cooling opportunities after long days hiking or biking. At Dravo's Landing Campground, campers can easily reach the water. "Access from the Allegheny Gap trail. There were a few shelters, nice campsite. It's close to an old cemetery which is useful in telling ghosts stories around the campfire," notes Lauren C.
Trail exploration: The GAP Trail offers miles of car-free cycling or hiking directly from most camping areas. "This campsite is a nice reward for west-bound riders on the GAP trail (it's the last one before Pittsburgh!), and a nice easy introduction to bikepacking camping for the east-bound," explains Shari G. about Dravo's Landing.
Evening relaxation: Gather firewood from provided stocks at select camps and enjoy community fire areas. "The local volunteer group also keeps the free wood pile stocked and ready to go," notes one Dravo's Landing reviewer, providing savings on camping expenses.
What campers like
Community spaces: The social layout of The GAP Trail Campground receives high marks. "The spacious and lush lawn has lots of space for tents, but the winner is the covered seating, dining, and cooking area," writes Shari G., who compares it to "a luxury AirBnB and a Hobbit Camp had a baby."
Adirondack shelters: First-come, first-served shelters provide weather protection. "We secured the only open Adirondack Shelter and were able to set up our tent inside, along with keeping our bicycles inside and out of the elements. Which made it wonderfully convenient when it started to rain," explains Dave V. from his stay at Round Bottom.
Shade coverage: Trees provide relief from summer heat at various sites. "It is a beautiful wooded park offering lots of trees for privacy," notes Ashleigh M. about her brief stay at Laurel Ridge State Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Active rail traffic affects sleep at riverside camps. "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," advises a reviewer about train frequency.
Water considerations: Most camps lack reliable potable water. At Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground, "the well for the campground stated that it was no longer potable. My guess is that this is simply because the volunteer organization which maintains this campground lacks the funds for testing. We grabbed water at the last town before the campground," reports Shari G.
Site availability: Weekends fill quickly in summer and fall. "This trail is especially popular in October and on long weekends, so if you're coming to the woods for solitude or silence, avoid those times," advises Brian S. about camping at Laurel Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities: Know the bathroom situation before arriving with children. At Rhododendron Camping Area, "The bathhouse is located closest to site 5 with trails from other sites to get there. The facilities are always clean- no shower available," writes Sienna L., providing valuable facilities information.
Wildlife encounters: Secure food properly, especially at established sites. "Just be sure to secure your food overnight - if you don't, the raccoons will make quick work of it!" warns Sarah Q. about Dravo's Landing, highlighting the importance of proper food storage.
Campsite selection: Choose campsites with natural features that entertain children. "It is walking distance to the beautiful overlook and a great price for what you get," reports Kaly about Rhododendron Camping Area, mentioning a feature that can occupy family time.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: The topography creates challenges for RV parking in some areas. At Indian Creek Camplands, Christopher M. notes, "Not the most level areas but good clean and quiet campsites," indicating the need for leveling equipment.
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Washington have limited space for larger vehicles. "Good spot, just beyond owners side yard," indicates the relatively small setup at Indian Creek, requiring careful consideration for RV length.
Alternative RV options: Consider driving further to find full-hookup options as most sites near Washington are primitive. The limited RV-specific reviews indicate most nearby camping focuses primarily on tent and small trailer accommodation rather than dedicated RV facilities.
