Camping near Windber, Pennsylvania sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,000 feet in the Laurel Highlands region, creating temperature variations that can be 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The mountainous terrain features creek-fed campsites where summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F, with higher elevations experiencing more frequent brief rain showers even during dry spells elsewhere.
What to do
Hike mountain elevations: Blue Knob State Park offers challenging terrain on Pennsylvania's second-highest peak. "The hiking here is really spectacular with lots of scenery, overlooks, and side trails that extend many miles out into state forest lands which are adjacent to the park. Clouds blowing east from the Midwest tend to break on the mountains here at Blue Knob, so short little bursts of rainfall are frequent," notes Brian S.
Fishing without licenses: At Friendship Village Campground, fish the on-site ponds without extra permits. "There are multiple ponds on the property however only one of them can be fished in. No license is required for fishing here," according to Christopher R. The campground also features two swimming pools with lifeguards.
Bike the Great Allegheny Passage: Access this major trail directly from Kentuck Campground at Ohiopyle State Park. "Awesome campground right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail. We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground," writes Bounding Around. The trail connects to numerous outdoor opportunities in the surrounding area.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Rocky Gap State Park Campground, sites offer excellent spacing. "Can't believe how much space is between each site. You're close enough to see other campers but far enough away to feel you have your own sections of woods," reports Jeff H. This makes it ideal for pet-friendly camping near Windber when seeking more privacy.
Creek-side tent camping: Mirror Lake RV Camping & Fishing offers prime waterfront spots. "Our site was easily accessed and had a nice view of the campground. The lake is gorgeous and has a large, sandy beach," notes Gerard. Site 26 is particularly spacious with "a huge back yard and easy access to the creek" according to Mathew H.
Family-friendly amenities: Friendship Village Campground provides extensive facilities for children. "The jumping pillow, playground and gaga ball pit" are positioned conveniently near sites 145-171, making these locations ideal for families with kids according to Christopher R., who adds there are "two pools at each end of the campground... well-maintained and have lifeguard supervision."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. Blue Knob State Park Campground is only open "2nd Friday April to 3rd Sunday October" according to their official listing, while Kooser State Park operates from "April 15 to October 15."
Uneven terrain: Many campsites require careful setup. At Laurel Hill State Park Campground, "sites can be a bit small or awkward for campers. Our neighbor had a bit of a rough time accessing our shared electric box and we had to put our tent right on the edge because the rest of the campsite was a little muddy," reports Kate D.
Varied noise levels: Highway proximity affects some parks significantly. At Kooser State Park Campground, "Route 31 is nearby" according to Kevin E., though he notes "it wasn't all that noticeable." Friendship Village experiences more substantial noise as "it is located by 2 major highways and truck traffic and Jake brake are constant all night long" according to Aaron S.
Tips for camping with families
Bring extra water containers: While most sites offer drinking water, access points may be limited. At Shawnee State Park, campers noted that "water is available but not at every site. There is water at the dump station," as Olivia L. observed during her stay.
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, Shawnee State Park offers multiple accommodation types. "300+ site campground with a mix of FHU, 30 and 50-amp electric, and non-electric tent sites, yurts, and cabins. Select loops allow pets but not all do," writes Lee D., providing options for families with varying comfort needs.
Pack rain gear year-round: Mountain elevations create unpredictable weather patterns. At Blue Knob, "short little bursts of rainfall are frequent, and they don't always show up on weather apps. Come prepared for short rain showers, chilly air even in the summer," advises Brian S.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: Many campgrounds have challenging sites for larger rigs. At Shawnee State Park, "We absolutely loved our stay at this park once we changed sites. We have a 35' TT and there was no way it was going to fit in the site we originally booked," warns Brittany V., emphasizing the importance of verifying site specifications.
Bring leveling equipment: Mountainous terrain creates uneven sites throughout the region. At Kooser State Park, "many of the sites are not level at all and take some serious work to get your rig level," according to Kevin E., making substantial leveling blocks essential equipment.
Scout
