If you're looking for a great outdoor adventure with your family, look no further than Pennsylvania! This state is home to some of the best camping spots in the country. From the Allegheny National Forest to Ricketts Glen State Park, there are plenty of amazing places to pitch a tent and spend some time in nature. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 of our favorite family camping trips in
Pennsylvania!
10 FAMILY CAMPING TRIPS IN PENNSYLVANIA
Pennsylvania residents usually go camping with their families in the late spring, summer and early fall. However, if you want to find a more secluded campground, it's best to visit from April through mid-May or October through mid-November to avoid the crowds of schoolchildren. The campsites we've found for this article may still be busy during peak season in the middle of summer, but if you plan ahead you'll likely be able to snag a cabin or tent site.
Pennsylvania is a gorgeous state with ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Here is a brief guide to some of th
e best parks, both public and private, for families:
10 Great Spots for Family Camping in Pennsylvania
1) The Hickory Creek Wilderness Ranch is located in Tidioute, This stunning area for family camping is located in the westernmost part of the state bordering Ohio. With beautiful meadows, hiking trails lined with trees, and multiple options for horseback riding excursions, this is a perfect spot to bring your Pennsylvania camping trip to life.
2) In western Pennsylvania, you’ll also find free camping in the Allegheny National Forest. The Allegheny River holds a large reservoir for boating and fishing 100 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. This area includes vast land portions East of the city.
3) A bit farther east is the much more developed Pioneer Park Campground, with a pool and other family-friendly activities.
4) Laurel Hill State Park lies just south of Pioneer and has both a lake and extensive hiking trails. The CCC built this campsite during the Great Depression, and now it's a popular camping destination for families in Pennsylvania. Reserve your spot early to make sure you get one.
5) Lost Mountain Campground is a private area, just south of Laurel Hill, this campground features a heated pool and playground, making it the perfect place for families. Their overnight fees are reasonable whether you're looking for small cabins or primitive tent camping.
6) Hard to pronounce, but easy to find—Quemahoning Family Recreation Area is just due north from Laurel Hill and has everything a family could ask for: beach, kayaking, and hiking.
7) Laurel Ridge State Park is another state park bargain, just north and west of Quemahoning. If you're looking to hike and avoid big crowds, this destination is perfect for you. Filled with sprawling trails and fresh air, many also come here to spend time with their furry friends.
8) Getting back on Route 30 and driving due north and west, you’ll come to Keystone State Park, which includes the 78-acre Keystone Lake.With quaint cabins, boating and fishing options, gentle hiking trails and sparkling swimming areas, this park is the perfect size for a weekend getaway.
9) From here, drive directly east, then head north to a park some say is the best family camping in Pennsylvania: Prince Gallitzin. This royally-named campground offers boating, miles of pristine shoreline, cottages and disc golf.
10) Continue north into the wooded area where Black Moshannon State Park lies. Unlike parks in other states, this one in Pennsylvania has a breathtaking lake that you can explore by renting a boat. Paddling through the wetlands and Haunted Lake will be a very calming experience.
Related Posts: Family Camping for Beginners by Camping with the Mediocre Dad