Situated in the southwestern corner of Pennsylvania, West Finley sits at elevations ranging from 1,200-1,400 feet with rolling terrain typical of the Appalachian foothills. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Camping options near West Finley vary from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with electricity, water, and sewer connections.
What to do
Horseback trails: Barkcamp State Park Campground offers dedicated equestrian camping areas with bridle trails throughout the park. "There is a section for horses and bridle trails for them as well, with one large trail that circles the entire encampment," notes Joshua B., who grew up visiting the park.
Boating options: Tappan Lake Park Campground provides easy lake access for boaters. "We stayed in the 'new section 5' of the park... They also had a nice place to launch boats in the campground," shared a camper who appreciated the convenience for water activities.
Stargazing: Benner's Meadow Run RV Campground features a dedicated stargazing platform for night sky viewing. While one visitor noted "The star gazing platform leaves a lot to be desired and is in need of repair," the campground's location away from major light pollution still offers good astronomy opportunities.
Rock climbing: Coopers Rock State Forest provides accessible rock climbing routes. "I have been going her for years and I always love to climb this area. The pitches arent too high (50ft) but great just to get out there an enjoy life!" shared Nick P. about the climbing options.
What campers like
Spacious sites: At Tomlinson Run State Park Campground, sites offer good separation. "My girlfriend and I stayed at tent site 40... Most of the sites were pretty private and ours was probably the most private and had a lot of space since we were on the very end of the road / cul-de-sac," reported Dusty R.
Clean facilities: Grand Vue Park maintains well-kept amenities according to visitors. "The bathhouses were really clean!" noted Owen I., who appreciated the campground's maintenance standards.
Forest setting: Campers at Zion Retreat & RV Park enjoy the natural environment. "The views are amazing! If you love peace and quiet this is the place for you. All sites are amongst the very tall trees," reported Kathryn P., highlighting the wooded setting.
Water features: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing opportunities. "There are several ponds around the campground for fishing and bird watching. Be sure to keep an eye our for deer as you come into the park!" shared a Zion Retreat visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds near West Finley operate seasonally. Coopers Rock State Forest has a limited season "April 1 to October 31," while water access may be restricted at some parks during colder months.
Varying site conditions: At Barkcamp State Park Campground, sites can present challenges. "The grounds are set up with a whole section for horse camping with tie outs and trailer/truck sites... the pad was narrow so you had to pay attention when exiting the camper, most of the site are on a hill," noted Bobby C. about the terrain.
Primitive options: For those seeking a more rustic glamping experience close to West Finley, Pennsylvania, some campgrounds offer basic sites. "We stayed in the camper cabins, which are right at the edge of the campground... The cabins have a view of the dumpsters and the dump station—not the prettiest view," warned one Barkcamp State Park visitor.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires careful driving. A camper at Zion Retreat advised, "Make sure you have a good tow vehicle as there is a steep hill at the entrance/exit of the camp ground."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Tappan Lake Park Campground offers family-friendly recreation areas. "Volleyball courts, and basketball courts were all in good condition. Plenty of hiking trails throughout the park," shared a visitor who found multiple activities for kids.
Kid-friendly activities: Benner's Meadow Run coordinates regular events. "They have a game room, pool, mini golf, a full camp store, firewood, etc," noted Mark E., who found the campground well-suited for family camping.
Beach options: Several parks feature swimming areas. "There are play grounds, basketball courts, a beach. Fishing is good and you can rent kayaks and boats," mentioned Joshua B. about Barkcamp State Park's family amenities.
Weekend events: Look for scheduled activities at campgrounds. "Grand Vue has many things to do including games, climbing, and of course those huge zip lines (the longest over 2000 feet)," shared a camper about glamping opportunities near West Finley.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds require careful setup. "Very small, muddy, and could not even have a fire on it... A lot of un level sites," warned a Tappan Lake visitor, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling blocks.
Hookup options: Madison-Pittsburgh S.E. KOA provides full service sites. "The lots are gravel and somewhat level. A cute restaurant is close by along with restrooms and showers that are also brand new," reported a Grand Vue Park visitor about site amenities.
Laundry facilities: Some campgrounds offer excellent laundry options. "Laundry facilities are the best we have encountered. Big machines and dryers making life easier and less time spent doing laundry," noted Mary Elisabeth D. about the Madison-Pittsburgh KOA.
Seasonal sections: Be aware that some campgrounds have permanent residents. "Lots of full timers here. Nice bath houses," mentioned a KOA visitor, noting the mix of short-term and seasonal campers at many parks in the region.
