The best camping in Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, PA

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100% (3)

The best camping in Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Gordon Glen Woods

2. Gordon Glen Woods

100%
(25)
27km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Belsano, PA
Gordon Glen Woods is nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains of Pennsylvania and is an eight-acre wooded land adjacent to 8,200 acres of state game land and is 1.5 miles from two trailheads of the Ghost Town Trail, Pennsylvania’s trail of the year 2020. There is 49 miles of trail from Ebensburg to Indiana Pennsylvania. Visit Ghost Town Trail for more information. We have two campsites that can accommodate campers up to 30 feet and are easily accessible yet secluded. Both campsites include a fire ring, free first load of firewood, a table, and close access to the Bathroom Bungalow that contains a composting toilet, mirror, and plenty of room to change. There is no running water or electricity. A convenient dump station, located at Yellow Creek Campground, is only 8 miles on Rt. 422. Enjoy a nature walk trail around the property. Avid and novice birdwatchers will enjoy the sounds of the wood thrush and more than 25 species on our wooded property. Robert Gordon Violin Maker’s studio is on site. Tours are available to learn about the history of violin making, and if your timing is right, enjoy an old-time music circle jam most weekends. Visit Robert Gordon III Violin Maker for more information. Private camping, non-commercial. Quiet Hours 11:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. We will consider one-night stays for weekdays. Family and dog friendly. Dogs must be controlled. Within a short drive there are many area attractions: .5 miles - Ghost Town Trail 5 miles - Duman Lake County Park 8 miles - Yellow Creek State Park 14 miles - Path of the Flood Trail 17 miles - John Mayer Trail 17 miles - Johnstown Flood Museum 19 miles - Johnstown Incline Plane that began service in 1891 (temporarily closed) 19 miles - Cassandra Railroad Overlook 20 miles - Johnstown Flood National Memorial 20 miles - Lemon House Federal Park 26 miles - Horseshoe Curve Historic Landmark 26 miles - Prince Gallitzin State Park 35 miles - Railroaders Memorial Museum 47 miles - Flight 93 National Memorial, Shanksville, PA Several local breweries and distilleries within 25 miles or less: Coal Country Brewing, Ebensburg Moonshine Mine Distillery, Ebensburg Stonebridge Brewing, Johnstown Levity Brewing, Indiana Noble Stein Brewing, Indiana Disobedient Spirits Distillery, Homer City Local Eateries: Krispy Kreme Drive-In, Belsano The Grove, Belsano The Break Room, Twin Rocks Pour on Center, Ebensburg
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$45
 / night
Large open space

4. Slice of Solitude

100%
(37)
30km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV · Windber, PA
Our property was once an overgrown field that in the past was strip mined for coal. This area was purchased by a local church congregation and has been transformed into a fun, peaceful picnic/recreation area. We enjoy using this area for picnics, birthday/graduation parties, family reunions and other fun, meaningful events. We have even had a few weddings here. Recently we decided that we want to give more people the opportunity to enjoy this beautiful, serene area. We hope you choose to come and relax and enjoy a "Slice of Solitude" Learn more about this land: Rustic camping area not far from town. We have a sand volleyball court, horseshoes, children's playground, tether ball, corn hole. A walking trail, running water, electricity (we do now have two 30 amp outlets), a fire pit, and a few other options. A nice quiet area. In 2024 we add a very nice shower house/restroom.
Pets
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$48
 / night
Ridge Top Retreat

5. Ridge Top Retreat

100%
(26)
36km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Westover, PA
We are located in beautiful Clearfield county Pennysalvina. Our farm is on over 150 acres. It’s has been in the family for generations. It has beautiful farm views with wooded areas. There is lots of wildlife to see. Including bear, bobcat, deer, eagles, fishers, and many other species. We have lots of hiking trails and our property also boarders state game lands. It’s a short drive to the Susquehanna River and other parks. You can also enjoy the cows, goats, peacocks, chickens, ducks, and turkeys at the farm. Contact the host and set up a time to visit and feed the animals. Learn more about our family farm and the animals. We also have a sawmill and wood shop. Nearby is Bilgers Rocks, Rock Run Atv Park, Prince Gallitzin State Park, the Susquehanna River, and many other fantastic outdoor activities. It’s a place to unwind and relax. And connect with nature. This is in a very rural part of Pennsylvania and camping in the winter weather can be difficult. So please prepare yourself with additional sleeping bags for winter. The tent is heated but because of the unpredictable and sometimes dangerous weather you need to be prepared. The bathroom is also outdoors so there will not be a shower provided till after the freezing weather. And the loo is not heated. It is also recommended that you have all wheel drive or 4 wheel drive to get to the campsite in the winter. It is possible to walk from road to site. But you should consider this when booking. RTR is a very beautiful place in the winter but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
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from 
$30
 / night
Campfire - site 13

6. Bald Eagle Campsite

96%
(1614)
46km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · Tyrone, PA
Originally opened as a family campground owned and operated by Denis and Kay Snyder in 1964. Bald Eagle Campsite has been owned and operated by the Snyder family to this day! Come join us in the beautiful forested landscape of Central Pennsylvania. Located a mere 20 miles south of Penn State University, we are surrounded by the many amenities Central PA has to offer. We are welcoming to LGBTQ+ campers as well as all ethnicities. Pitch a tent on a quiet site and drop a line into one of our two trout streams crossing the campground. Hang a hammock between two towering poplar trees surrounded by flowering rhododendron. Or pull up in your camper and relax before and after a Penn State Football game under the blue and white sky. We have small, secluded sites to get away from it all, as well as conjoined sites to accommodate larger groups. On property we have bathrooms, hot showers, and a recreation hall with free ping pong, board games, and billiards. For a fee, we also have firewood, electricity, and a large event tent for rent. Campers must be less than 25 feet. Generators are not allowed. Music should not reach outside your own site after 9pm. There are no water hookups. Vehicle noise is audible from route 350, especially on Friday afternoons. Noise is diminished at sites further back from route 350. Our sites are wheelchair accessible, but the bathrooms and showers do have one step up into them. Walk to Snappy's 24-hour convenience store to use their free Wi-Fi, buy bags of ice, or to pickup snacks and a sub in the attached Snappy's Grille. An ice cream stand and restaurant are within walking distance. We require a minimum two nights stay for the recognized holiday weekends for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
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$36
 / night
Ranger's Retreat

8. Ranger's Retreat

99%
(39)
52km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · Jennerstown, PA
Nestled in the Laurel Mountains the property offers a secluded, quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of life! Nearly unlimited activities nearby as well! 1/2 mile from the Laurel Highlands hiking trail, 2 golf courses within 5 minutes, Jennerstown speedway 2 miles away! Three Vail resorts nearby, Seven Springs, Hidden Valley and Laurel Mountain! Swimming, fishing and canoing 10 mins away at the Quemahoning dam! 9/11 memorial 20 minutes away! 9 for 9 miners rescue memorial 10 minutes away! Public Game Lands 2 miles away! 30 minutes from historic Johnstown "The Flood City" which is home to the steepest incline plane in the world! Historic Ft. Ligonier, Linn Run State park and Idlewild theme park is a 15-20 minute drive over the mountain! Pittsburgh Airport 90 minutes away! Latrobe airport "offering Spirit airlines" 25 minutes away! Mountain Ridge ATV park located off hwy 160 is a 20-25 minute drive! We offer water fill and sewage dump for a small fee! We are committed to the continued development of our property and have plans to add more amenities in the future for guest convenience!
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Full Hookups
from 
$42
 / night
Burnhead Grazings

9. Burnhead Grazings

100%
(157)
56km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Indiana , PA
The rich history of Burnhead Grazings is enveloped in a love for God's creation. Dr. Gib and Emmy Lou McLaughlin purchased Burnhead, which is Gaelic for the head of the stream, from William H. Stevens. The once pasture for Hilltop Dairy's cows became a pasture for sheep. Gib and Emmy had been in search of land for years after getting their first border collie and falling in love with the Shepherd lifestyle. Gib trained dozens of border collies to work the sheep and did hundreds of demonstrations highlighting the herding abilities of the collie across the country. Their love for Scotland and the border collie took them Scotland on many occasions. Burnhead Grazings is a snapshot of Scotland, "in bye" or close to, the beautiful college town of Indiana, PA. Less than two miles from two hotels, three miles from downtown, and within minutes from Amish country, it is amazing that this respite still exists so close to civilization. Gib and Emmy's daughter, Moire McLaughlin Bridges and her husband Randy have endeavored to bring the sheep back to Burnhead Grazings and to continue the family tradition as well as to share in the experience. You can listen to an interview on The Christian Witness Program on this page for some history about Moire and Randy in Tennessee where they were residing before coming to Indiana. They are producing lamb, wool for spinning and felting, and hay and are opening up the farm for small events such as weddings or family reunions. Moire is also the author and illustrator of a children's book available for sale on iBooks called Sissy & The King. In November of 2014, with the help of Hilltop Baptist Church and many others, they began hosting an event, LIFE Nativity, the weekend before Thanksgiving, which benefits Life-Way Pregnancy Center. Moire is also a fine artist and gives classes on wool felting. Ask about signing up for a class or book a private felting party.
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$53
 / night
We love drone photos and videos! Drones are always welcome at our property.

11. Wilson’s Boondock Hollow

100%
(39)
60km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Ramblewood, PA
***We are closed for the winter, we will open back up sometime in April or beginning of May*** Latest updates on weather, local events, photos and videos can be found on our Instagram @wilsons_boondock If you're in search of a primitive camping location that's perfect for unwinding, offering privacy and seclusion, then we are the destination for you. We have many extras that you can add to your stay like fishing our private spring fed pond. PSU Football fans we can accommodate your group, just send us a message about your group size first. We do welcome drones. Tucked away in the heart of the Stone Valley Forest a secluded 150+ year old family farm bordering Penn State University Forest and near Rothrock State Forest. Abundant wildlife and scenic hiking, biking trails on site and nearby with Greenwood Furnace and Whipples Damn State parks only a few minutes away. The area has some of the finest trout fishing with the streams and lakes nearby such as Standing Stone Creek, Juniata River, Little Juniata and the famous Spruce Creek. We are centrally situated between State College PA, and historic Huntingdon PA home of Juniata College, and Belleville PA (Home to the second oldest Amish community in the country) where you can attend the famous sale every Wednesday. Local Restaurants: Doan's Bones BBQ (eat in & carry out, 5 min drive) Couch's Subs and Groceries (eat in & carry out, 10 min drive) McMurtrie's Tavern (eat in & carry out, 15 min drive) Local churches: Manor Hill Methodist, service every Sunday at 11am to noon (3 min drive) St. Stephens Lutheran Church (5 min drive)
Pets
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from 
$44
 / night
Wilbur's Shed

13. Wilbur's Shed

99%
(132)
72km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 1 site · Tent, RV · Blairs Mills, PA
Let your children and dogs roam free without a leash. This property is remote and private. There are no neighbors nearby. This location is; twenty minutes north of I-76 Turnpike Willow Hill Exit forty-five minutes from Raystown Lake one hour and thirty minutes north of Gettysburg one hour and thirty minutes south of PSU three hours east of Pittsburgh three hours west of Philadelphia five hours west of NYC There is some cell service, but it is limited. Can you hear me now? Be sure to save site information on your phone before you leave, in case you lose cell-service. This is not Alaska, but it is not a KOA campground, either. We recommend you print of bring a paper map. Your GPS will not bring you to the exact driveway location. You need to be personally observant. This is the top of a mountain ridge. The access lane is steep, rocky, and has water erosion ditches you must drive over. Do not attempt this if you have a low profile car or a new/fragile camper. 4WD/AWD is highly recommended. Low profile and fancy cars are not recommended. This camping site is for those who want to live ruggedly like Lewis Clark. To see the water ditches you must drive over, go to YouTube and search "Wilbur's Shed - Blairs Mills", and it is the account of a cat with a white face. This location is in a mix of farmland and mountain Appalachia. You will see common species such as chipmunks, squirrels turkey and deer. Many bird species. There are also porcupines, skunks, and black snakes around. You may also see black bear - it is rare, but possible. You are visiting wildlife species in their natural habitat. Please be self-aware of your own level comfort with wildlife. Once again, this is not an RVs park where you will socialize with a hundred other campers. This is primitive and isolated. This is an ideal camping spot if you want to escape from people. Nearby is the Tuscarora Creek which is excellent for trout fishing. The Tuscarora has a small but lovely window for kayaking from mid-March through the end of May. Please contact the host if you would like help to plan some paddle logistics. Rental through Hipcamp does not include hunting or the use of firearms, nor the use of dirt bikes and ATVs.
Pets
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from 
$53
 / night
Grouseland Hospitality

14. Grouseland Hospitality

98%
(316)
73km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Clearville, PA
Grouseland's Private Campsites are located on top of our ridge offering a unique scenic overlook and a near virgin sky perfect for stargazing. We have 4 sites ready for you here at Grouseland! Please read their descriptions and book the one best for you! We encourage guests to bring dogs, however dogs must be kept on leads when on site or on leashes when on walks. There are no exceptions to this rule to ensure the safety of all of our guests. All sites include an allotted amount of free firewood, miles of hiking trails, and use of communal facilities including a hot shower and flush toilet. Tall Oaks Campsite: A small private site and is our only rustic style site, so no water or electricity, designed maximum 6 people with parking for 3 cars on site and space for 4 average size tents. This site has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, a bench and charcoal grill. Twisted Oak Campsite: A medium-sized luxury private site includes potable water and electricity on site, designed for maximum 8 guests with parking for 4 cars on site and has space for several tents. This site has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, benches, charcoal grill, and on-site string lights. Red Maple Campsite: A large luxury private site that includes potable water and electricity on site, designed for a maximum 10 guests with on-site parking space that is 90ft long and 20ft wide, for an RV or 6-8 cars and overflow parking for several more cars. It is designed to be backed into with an RV and then pulled out of. This site can handle several tents and has two picnic tables, two portable toilets, a scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, benches, a charcoal grill, and on-site string lights. Aspen RV Campsite: A medium private luxury drive through site great for RVs, rooftop tents, pop ups or camper vans. This site includes potable water and electricity on site, designed with water and electric hookups for a single camping vehicle, maximum 6 people. This site is a drive through site, so guests don’t have to back in or out. This site also has a picnic table, portable toilet, scenic overlook, hammock, fireplace, charcoal grill, and a bench.
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$69
 / night
Hidden valley camp

15. Hidden valley camp

99%
(39)
75km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bedford, PA
Pitch your tent, park your RV, or sleep under the stars in this tranquil and private campsite surrounded by ten acres of forest for you to explore. Enjoy the deer and abundant wildlife as you hike the mountain trails or relax by the firepit. If you're looking for a peaceful and relaxing break from the hustle of everyday life, this is it. Looking for some fun by the water? Beautiful Lake Gordon and Lake Koon are less than one mile away for fishing and kayaking, or take a bike ride and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Historic downtown Cumberland, MD is just a short drive away, with shops, restaurants, train rides, and beautiful mountain views. Check out the canal towpath and Great Allegheny Passage for ample hiking and biking. Rocky Gap State Park is also nearby, offering hiking, swimming, boating, and a large state of the art casino. On your way back, don't forget to grab a handcrafted brew or listen to some live music at 1812 Brewery, just a ten minute drive from camp. For over 20 years our family has enjoyed the peace, quiet, and wildlife of the mountain we call home, and we can't wait to share it with you!! FYI: - Firewood and farm fresh eggs are available from your hosts. Don't hesitate to reach out. We'll deliver! - One kayak and one canoe are available for rent, however trasportation is not provided at this time. Contact your hosts for details. - A picnic table, fire pit, and port-a-john are available at the campsite for your use. -Please note, the campsite is located off a dirt road. Four wheel drive is recommended but not required. - Hunting is prohibited at the campsite and the surrounding 10 acres, however hunters may be present in other areas of the mountain during the fall. Always be aware of your surroundings. - Wifi is not available, however there is adequate cell phone reception for all common carriers. -As always, leave no trace. A dumpster is available along the road for disposing of your trash as you leave. Enjoy your stay!
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from 
$24
 / night
Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

16. Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

97%
(16)
77km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 99 sites · Tents, RVs · Champion, PA
Learn more about this land: We are offering Year-Round camping with 30-amp Rv hook ups. Water turned on site after May 15th, Cable on every site. A dump station available at the exit! There is a shower house / bathhouse available to the campers. 24-7 -365. Campers will have unlimited access to activities and amenities at no additional charge. Olympic sized swimming pool 18 round mini golf, Shuffleboard and boccie ball. Gaga ball pit, Sand box, playgrounds, basketball, volleyball, tennis and pickleball courses. the campground as a schedule of activities from Memorial Day to Labor Day. We can't. take Hip campers on the three summer Holiday weekends. Our camping price. is all inclusive includes all onsite amenities. no food Located in the heart of the Laurel Highland We are a gated Camping Community. we are in close proximity to all the area's most popular attraction. Ohiopyle State Park Laurel Hill State Park Koosier State Park Linn Runn State Park Three Frank Lloyd Wright homes, Fallingwater, Kentuck Knob & The Duncan House! Flight 93 National Monument Living Treasures Animal Park Caddy Shack Numerous Restaurants Wineries Breweries and Wedding Venues! We are located only minutes from Seven Springs, Hidden Valley and Laurel Mt. Ski Resorts. Skiers from all over the United States flock to Southwestern Pennsylvania to Ski the Laurel Highlands! Wonderful area to explore!
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$65
 / night
WonderWoods at Rocky Gap

17. WonderWoods at Rocky Gap

99%
(80)
80km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Flintstone, MD
Surrounded by the 3000 acres of Rocky Gap State Park, you have the best of all worlds -- camping with creature comforts on a 4-acre private homestead with woodlands, meadows and an orchard, with walkable access to over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails and swimming, kayak/canoe/paddleboard rental on Lake Habeeb and great nature programs by park staff, plus golf course and casino at the Rocky Gap Resort. Historic downtown Cumberland, MD is just a 12-min drive away, with supermarkets, shops, restaurants, train rides and beautiful mountain views. Check out the C&O Canal Towpath and Great Allegheny Passage for hiking and biking. Please note, this is family homestead, and there are two houses on the property. FYI: - Hot-water showers, flush toilets and an equipped kitchenette with small fridge, coffeemaker and microware are available for your use. - Two campsites are available. Each includes a picnic table, fire pit, and two Adirondack chairs for your use. - A treehouse-like tiny house in the woods is available. Fully equipped with heat/AC and tiny kitchen, it is steep 1/4 mile hike perfect for those who like a little adventure. (I will bring up your luggage and supplies in the 4-wheeler). - Wifi available at all sites. - Plentiful firewood, available on a pay-what-you-will basis. Please note: From December to March, the access road to get to our property occasionally gets icy (we plow it but do not salt). 4WD/AWD and/or snow tires is recommended during those months. Enjoy your stay!
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$53
 / night
Scenic Altoona Camp

20. Scenic Altoona Camp

21km from Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site · 1 site · RV · Altoona, PA
Located between the 17th Street and Pinecroft I-99 exits in Altoona, this spot makes for an easy pit stop while traveling through. We’re about 45 minutes south of State College and 35 minutes north of Bedford. The property includes a 100-foot-long parking space below our garage. Our quiet neighborhood sits on a dead-end street, adjacent to hundreds of acres of wooded watershed land. The wide, mile-long street is a popular place for a leisurely stroll. Please note that you will hear traffic from I-99, as the lower end of the property borders the highway. Nearby Adventures Canoe Creek State Park – 911 acres of natural beauty with a 155-acre lake for fishing and boating, plus hiking trails, swimming, and picnic areas. Bells Gap Rail Trail – A multi-use trail offering both easy, flat sections for walking or biking and rugged stretches for mountain biking and hiking. Valley View Park – A 45-acre green space in Altoona with wooded paths, open fields, and family-friendly picnic spots. Chimney Rocks Park – Near Hollidaysburg, featuring striking limestone formations and overlooks with sweeping valley views.
Electrical Hookup
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Pets
from 
$30
 / night
100% (3)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site adventure.

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The best camping in Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site, PA guide

Overview

About

Train enthusiasts, history buffs and outdoor lovers will all delight in this historic site. It celebrates what was considered a modern marvel in its day. The Allegheny Portage Railroad was the first railroad constructed over the Allegheny Mountains, significantly cutting time off the long and arduous journey across Pennsylvania during the 1800s.

When you visit this historic site, start off at the Summit Level Visitor Center. Here you'll get a great overview of what it was like to work and travel on the rails. Also of interest to visitors will be the Lemon House, which served as a restaurant to patrons of the railroad. The building has been restored to show what it may have looked like during the 1840s, with period furnishings inside. Make sure to check out Engine House #6, the Skew Arch Bridge, and all of the nearby hike and bike trails. The popular 6 to 10 Trail takes hikers on an 8-mile journey from the visitor's center at Incline 6 to Incline 10, the last incline of the railroad. At the base of the trail is the Foot of Ten Trail that takes you to where Engine House 10 once stood.

Don't forget to pack a picnic! The site has a large, wooded picnic area about a half-mile walk from the visitor center. Here you'll find over twenty tables, and a dozen grills for your use. One table is also handicap accessible, with parking and a short, paved path nearby.

Afraid you won't be able to explore it all in one day? Not to worry! Hipcamp has plenty of nearby camping options so you can extend your visit.

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