Camping options near West Newton, Pennsylvania range from 30-45 minutes from Pittsburgh, offering both wooded and riverside settings at elevations between 900-1,800 feet. The region experiences cold winters with average January temperatures around 25°F and humid summers averaging 73°F in July. Local campgrounds typically maintain open seasons from April through October, with several specifically mentioning operating through mid-October due to seasonal restrictions.
What to do
Hiking local trails: The McCollum Campground at Coopers Rock State Forest features several hiking trails for all skill levels within a 45-minute drive of West Newton. "Many hiking trails of all sizes and kept clear. My dog is mostly weenie dog, and his little legs made it everywhere," notes Lindsay W. The trails remain accessible for families with children and pets.
Fishing spots: At Fox Den Acres Campground, campers have access to stocked fishing ponds within walking distance of campsites. "We did watch kids fishing and pulling fish out as soon as they put their line in!! So much fun for them," reports Patience W. The ponds provide easy fishing opportunities for beginners and children.
Winter activities: Camping during colder months offers unique experiences at some locations. At Madison-Pittsburgh KOA, winter camping remains viable with heated facilities. "We're staying in the winter for a few nights to visit friends who live outside Pittsburgh. Friendly and cozy spot. They've done a great job in the winter despite the frigid weather by using heat tape on the spigots," shares Zachary H., highlighting the year-round accessibility.
What campers like
Industrial-sized laundry facilities: Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA offers an unexpected amenity that frequent travelers appreciate. "Laundry facilities are the best we have encountered. Big machines and dryers making life easier and less time spent doing laundry," writes Mary Elisabeth D. This practical feature makes the campground particularly useful for long-term travelers.
Stargazing opportunities: The Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground features a dedicated stargazing platform where campers can view night skies away from city light pollution. "Got a nice secluded spot to camp in the wooded area that had amazing mountain views and the star gazing platform," reports Tom C., though another camper noted the platform "leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair."
Clean bathroom facilities: Many reviews highlight bathroom cleanliness as a major benefit at Kentuck Campground — Ohiopyle State Park. "The bathhouses themselves were great," mentions Danielle V., while Robert C. adds that the surrounding area offers "a multitude of fun activities to do in the area. I feel fortunate to live only about 2 hours from this beautiful place, with the Montour biking/hiking trail running right through it."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven sites that require advance preparation. At Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA, one camper reported, "I couldn't get it level with my Anderson levelers it was pretty slopped." Sites at Laurel Hill State Park Campground have similar issues, with reviews noting, "the RV sites are on a major slope, especially the pull-through sites."
Limited bathroom facilities: Fox Den Acres Campground has restricted bathroom availability despite its size. "There's one 1950's bathhouse with a few stalls for hundreds of RV sites but they figure you're self-contained I suppose," notes Kathryn. Plan accordingly if visiting without self-contained facilities.
Distance to groceries: When planning luxury glamping in West Newton, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas, pack food supplies before arrival. Fox Den Acres camper Patience W. advises, "Plan your meals well, before arriving. There are a couple of restaurants in Ohiopyle, but they are not open late. There are no grocery stores real close."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Mill Run offers extensive children's programming within 30 minutes of West Newton. "They have a pool, fishing pond and a cloud pillow with the playground next to it along with two small dog play areas. Every week they organize different themes for bingo, and other games. They also have Sunday pancake days," explains Evelyn T. from a nearby campground.
Playground accessibility: Families visiting with children should consider proximity to play areas when booking campsites. "If you HAVE KIDS young enough to have to keep an eye on the kabins and spots facing the pillow ARE PRIME (kids wait for it to blow up every morning)," notes a Madison-Pittsburgh KOA visitor, highlighting the importance of strategic site selection.
Pool options: During summer months, most campgrounds operate swimming pools for families. At Fox Den Acres, "There's a swimming pool, fishing pond, and boating pond," according to Heather H., making it suitable for multi-day family stays with varied water activities.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup locations: The electric hookup placement at some campgrounds requires special equipment. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "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," advises Erik E.
Water tank filling: When staying at sites without direct water hookups, plan for filling tanks upon arrival. "The water hookups weren't working at the time, but we were able to connect in Cherry Loop and fill our tank," notes Bounding Around from Ohiopyle State Park, showing the importance of knowing water access points.
Site selection for large rigs: Campers with larger RVs should research specific site dimensions. At Coopers Rock State Forest, "the RV lots were well maintained and all the asphalt seems to have been redone recently," according to Mike G., making it suitable for larger vehicles despite limited hookups.
