Youghiogheny River Lake spans 2,840 acres across the Pennsylvania-Maryland border at an elevation of 1,470 feet. Positioned within the Laurel Highlands region, the lake creates a microclimate that's typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Campsites around the lake range from fully developed campgrounds with electrical hookups to primitive sites with minimal facilities.
What to do
**Fishing spots: Access from multiple areas with both lake and river fishing options. At Yough Lake Campground at Tub Run, campers report "good fishing" with multiple access points along the shoreline. One reviewer noted "fresh water access points allow dogs to cool off after hiking, with the outflow area offering shallow wading spots."
**Cycling the GAP trail: The Great Allegheny Passage runs directly through the area. A camper at Ohiopyle State Park mentioned, "We loved being able to access the GAP trail right from the campground. We were there in November with plans to visit Fallingwater. This campground was the perfect location for both activities!"
**Geocaching adventures: Several campgrounds maintain geocaching sites within their boundaries. "We had such a relaxing time there. The swimming lake was perfect and they had canoes and kayak rentals on site," noted a visitor at Yough Lake Campground. Another mentioned, "Many include fishing, swimming, boating, bicycling, hiking, geocaching, and hunting."
What campers like
**Secluded wooded sites: At Scarlett Knob Campground, "Each site is far away from other sites you feel alone. Each check in and out. Same building you check in they have ice to buy and some snacks. Limited service at campsite. Small pond in middle of campground - great for fishing."
**Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain regular bathroom cleaning schedules. "It's clean and the bath house is clean also," mentioned one camper at Outflow Camping. Another noted, "The campground itself is OK - its clean and the bath house is clean also - there just are not any private camp sites and not much shade."
**Proximity to attractions: Centrally located to visit Fallingwater, Ohiopyle, and other landmarks. A camper at Laurel Hill State Park Campground said, "It's close to many outdoor activities and historical places," while another mentioned it's "a reasonable distance walk" to the lake which is "less than a mile away."
What you should know
**Seasonal lake levels: Water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year. One reviewer at Tub Run reported, "Unfortunately the lake was dried up - which the folx at the reservations site warned us about - so the campground was pretty meh without that." Check water levels before booking water activities.
**Limited shade at some sites: Many campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal tree cover. "Most sites are gravel and level. Most only have 30 amp electric hookup but water can be filled at the 'gatehouse'. It is well-maintained—lawns mowed, bathrooms cleaned, sites tidy," noted a camper at Outflow Camping.
**Pet restrictions vary: Not all cabins or camping loops are dog-friendly at Kooser State Park Campground. "The park is close to the road so you will experience some road noise. They welcome all furry friends!" mentioned one camper, while another noted dog-friendly campgrounds near Youghiogheny River Lake typically require leashes no longer than six feet.
Tips for camping with families
**Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "Great for families to get away. Quiet and scenic, great trails. Close to lake and fishing," noted a visitor at Laurel Hill State Park, while another mentioned, "There is also a playground, volleyball, shuffleboard, and a large picnic area."
**Educational programs: Seasonal ranger-led activities are available at state parks. A visitor at Ohiopyle noted, "You could easily spend a week here and not exhaust all there is to see and do," while another mentioned the "sweet, cutting edge visitor/nature center" with educational exhibits about local ecology.
**Kid-friendly water activities: Shallow wading areas and dedicated swimming beaches exist at several locations. At Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground, one camper reported, "Great place for kids! Family friendly atmosphere, cordial staff, well run campground. Lots of activities. Tree shaded sites!"
Tips from RVers
**Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling equipment. "Our site was sloped pretty bad side to side and there is a drop off on the one side of the fire ring so we could not sit completely around the fire," reported a camper at Benner's Meadow Run, while another mentioned at Laurel Hill that "some of the sites were on an incline."
**Electric hookup placement: Some campgrounds have awkwardly positioned electric posts. A reviewer at Laurel Hill State Park noted, "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."
**Water fill stations: Not all sites have water hookups, but fill stations are available. "Most only have 30 amp electric hookup but water can be filled at the 'gatehouse' for lack of better description," explained a visitor to Outflow Camping, adding that there are only "3-4 full hookup and a few 50 amp" sites available.
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