Top 5 Campgrounds in Western Pennsylvania

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Western Pennsylvania lie some of the most picturesque and inviting campgrounds, offering outdoor enthusiasts the perfect escape into nature. From serene forests to tranquil lakeshores, these campgrounds provide an opportunity to reconnect with the great outdoors, unwind by a crackling campfire, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends. In this guide, we'll explore the top five campgrounds in Western Pennsylvania, each offering its unique blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and camping amenities.

1. Ohiopyle State Park Campground:

   • Location: Ohiopyle, PA

   • Overview: Situated along the scenic Youghiogheny River, Ohiopyle State Park Campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and relaxation. The campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, rustic cabins, and modern RV sites, all surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills.

   • Activities: Visitors can enjoy a myriad of outdoor activities, including hiking along the extensive trail system, whitewater rafting on the Youghiogheny River, biking along the Great Allegheny Passage, and fishing in the river and nearby streams.

   • Amenities: The campground features modern facilities, including restrooms with hot showers, a camp store for supplies, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families with children. Additionally, interpretive programs and guided tours are offered seasonally, providing educational opportunities for campers of all ages.

2. Cook Forest State Park Campground:

   • Location: Cooksburg, PA

   • Overview: Tucked away in the heart of the ancient Cook Forest, Cook Forest State Park Campground is renowned for its towering old-growth trees, scenic trails, and peaceful atmosphere. Campers can choose from tent sites, RV sites, and rustic cabins, each offering a unique camping experience amidst the tranquil beauty of the forest.

   • Activities: The campground provides ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and wildlife viewing, with miles of trails winding through the forest canopy and along the banks of the Clarion River. Canoeing, kayaking, and tubing are popular activities on the river during the summer months.

   • Amenities: Campground amenities include modern restrooms, hot showers, a camp store for essentials, picnic areas with grills, and a swimming area for cooling off on hot days. Interpretive programs, nature walks, and campfire programs are offered regularly, providing entertainment and educational experiences for campers.

3. Laurel Hill State Park Campground:

   • Location: Somerset, PA

   • Overview: Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Laurel Highlands, Laurel Hill State Park Campground offers a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and recreation. The campground features spacious tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins nestled among the trees, providing a perfect base for exploring the park's natural wonders.

   • Activities: Campers can explore miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the forested hills and around the tranquil lake, offering stunning views and opportunities for wildlife sightings. Fishing, boating, and swimming are popular activities on Laurel Hill Lake, while winter sports such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing can be enjoyed during the colder months.

   • Amenities: Campground amenities include modern restrooms, hot showers, a camp store for supplies, picnic areas with tables and grills, and a playground for children. The park also offers rental equipment for boating, fishing, and winter sports, as well as educational programs and special events throughout the year.

4. Kinzua Bridge State Park Campground:

   • Location: Mount Jewett, PA

   • Overview: Set amidst the rugged beauty of the Allegheny Plateau, Kinzua Bridge State Park Campground offers a unique camping experience with breathtaking views of the Kinzua Viaduct and surrounding wilderness. The campground features tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

   • Activities: Campers can hike to the Kinzua Sky Walk, a spectacular pedestrian bridge that offers panoramic views of the Kinzua Gorge and remnants of the historic viaduct. The park also offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, picnicking areas, and interpretive exhibits that showcase the area's natural and cultural heritage.

   • Amenities: Campground amenities include modern restrooms, hot showers, a camp store for essentials, picnic pavilions, and a playground for children. Interpretive programs, guided walks, and special events are offered seasonally, providing opportunities for learning and exploration for visitors of all ages.

5. Moraine State Park Campground:

   • Location: Portersville, PA

   • Overview: Nestled amidst the rolling hills and pristine waters of Western Pennsylvania, Moraine State Park Campground offers a tranquil retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The campground features spacious tent and RV sites, as well as cozy cabins, providing a peaceful haven for campers.

   • Activities: Campers can explore the park's extensive trail system, which offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities through forests, meadows, and along the shores of Lake Arthur. Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular activities on the lake, while picnicking, wildlife viewing, and nature photography can be enjoyed throughout the park.

   • Amenities: Campground amenities include modern restrooms, hot showers, a camp store for supplies, picnic areas with tables and grills, and a swimming beach for cooling off on hot days. The park also offers rental equipment for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities, as well as educational programs and special events for visitors of all ages.

With their stunning natural beauty, diverse recreational opportunities, and welcoming camping amenities, the top five campgrounds in Western Pennsylvania offer the perfect escape into nature for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to reconnect with the great outdoors, these campgrounds provide an ideal setting for a memorable camping experience. So pack your tent, gather your family and friends, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Western Pennsylvania's wilderness.