Best Tent Camping near West Newton, PA
Several tent camping options exist along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail near West Newton, Pennsylvania. Dravo's Landing Campground offers free tent sites with river access, picnic tables, and fire pits. Roundbottom Hiker-Biker Campground provides similar amenities about 15 miles east of West Newton at Mile 99 of the trail. Both campgrounds primarily serve hikers and cyclists traveling along the GAP Trail, which runs from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland.
Most tent sites in this area feature level grassy areas with some raised tent pads at certain locations. Dravo's Landing includes lean-to shelters that can accommodate small tents, offering protection from rain. Vault toilets are available at both Dravo's Landing and Roundbottom, though the water supply at Roundbottom is not reliably potable. A recent review noted, "We grabbed water at the last town before the campground." Campers should plan to filter water from the Youghiogheny River or bring their own supply. Firewood is often provided at Dravo's Landing by local volunteer groups.
These tent campgrounds provide direct access to both the GAP Trail and the Youghiogheny River. The riverside location allows for cooling off after hiking or biking. One camper shared that "the river is very easy to access for a quick dip after a long day on the trail." Tent campers should be prepared for train noise during the night, as the campgrounds are located near active railroad tracks. Train traffic can be disruptive, particularly at night when the squealing brakes from trains navigating curves can interrupt sleep. Earplugs are recommended for tent campers at these locations. Wildlife is also active in these areas, with raccoons known to raid improperly stored food at Dravo's Landing.
