The best campsites in Allegheny Islands State Park, PA

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Discover the untouched wilderness of Allegheny Islands State Park.  

The best campsites in Allegheny Islands State Park, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Sycamore Island

1. Sycamore Island

100%
(14)
6.1km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 1 unit · Tent · Blawnox, PA
Camp on an island only accessible by boat/kayak/canoe or however you want to get across the river! Please read the full description. The island is open to visitors from dawn to dusk to enjoy the trails and wild scenery. Camp reservations secure your overnight visit to stay at the designated campsite area, which has a fire ring for cooking, a picnic table, and room for a tent or hammock. Sycamore Island can only be reached by your own canoe, kayak, or rowboat; watercraft is not provided. You are required to have a permit for an overnight stay: Please sign this form before submitting your stay request. https://alleghenylandtrust.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Camping-at-Sycamore-Island-Rules-and-Regulations-4.5.16-Fillable.pdf Please plan your visit in advance- requests to camp the same day or day before may not receive a timely approval. Sycamore Island and its campsite are managed by Allegheny Land Trust, a 501c3 land conservation nonprofit helping local people save local land in the Pittsburgh region. We are able to review and respond to camping requests Monday - Friday between 9 am - 5 pm. Acquired and protected by Allegheny Land Trust in 2008, Sycamore Island is a floodplain forest with a ranking of “high significance” within the Allegheny River Biological Diversity Area (BDA) Natural Heritage Area. Before the island was protected by ALT, the island had periodic interludes of recognition and appreciation by humans as a natural refuge. In 1936, both Sycamore Island and Nine Mile Island were leased from the Pennsylvania Railroad by the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, making these islands the first bird sanctuaries in the Pittsburgh region. The Harbor Isle Boat Club was in existence on the island during the late 1960s but was later abandoned leaving behind several significant features; including a barge that remains embedded in the sand at the island’s southern tip, a partially installed swimming pool, docking platform, and a series of offshore pilings in the back channel.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$10
 / night
the cabin!

2. Sunnyday's Forest

97%
(73)
13km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 2 units · Glamping · Tarentum, PA
Just renovated for winter camping! Completely sealed up and draft free. Still a very primitive site, but the interior now keeps in the warmth from the fireplace. A set of bunk beds and a4 seat table as well as some could makes it work for up to 6 people. Plenty of tent area around of you have a bigger group! Sunnyday's farm and forest was a Christmas tree farm in the 1950's. I've owned it for the last 30 years and it is now a horse farm with pastures and woods. Rustic area of 25 acres of pastures and forest bordering a hundred of acres of railroad and municipal forest. Great for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking. 1.5 miles from Deer Lakes park which has fishing, hiking, mountain biking, frisbee course and a great playground. The Allegheny river, judged to be one of the cleanest in the country, is just 6 miles away. Harrison Hills park offers great hiking along the river and an occasional river otter. The Rachel Carson Trail and Baker trail are just a few miles away. It is a secluded log cabin in the woods on top of a hill overlooking a pasture. It is a very primitive cabin with a fireplace, brick floor, large porch, fabric interior and no chinking in the logs. We provide a bunk bed and cots and 2 picnic tables.. There is a large grassy area in front of the cabin for tents. There is no vehicle access, no electricity and no water at the cabin, but LOTS of downed wood for fires. There are horses, goats, chickens, ducks and a pig that roam the pastures. The cabin is about 300 yards from the parking area up a fairly steep hill, but the location is worth the walk! If you're stopping with an RV or trailer we have ample parking near the road and have overnight accommodations for horses Great place for a stopover.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night
Runnin Crazy Farm

6. Runnin Crazy Farm

96%
(260)
41km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes · New Brighton , PA
Growing up and building on the back of our Family Farm is the best goal I ever set for myself! My Off-Grid 20 acres has raised my 2 kids and all the animals we could rescue! We run a Horse Boarding Facility along with Freezer Meat of all sorts. It's a small Hobby Farm but we love it all the same! Family environment that's down to earth! Learn more about this land: Sites 1 and 2 are for campers/tents. Sites 3 and 4 are tent only spots. No shade. Top tent spots up in field (3 and 4) need a higher vehicle to get to them. A bit Off Road. 3 has privacy with Antique Trailer but 4 is wide open. Fire ring at all of them/with wood. Horse stalls/guided trails available for the campers bringing their own horses. If advanced notice, an hour Lesson or Ride can be scheduled. Our animals are friendly and love attention. Dogs welcome but need a leash. Our Family run Farm is willing to accommodate your needs. Book a stay with us as you pass on thru. (Totally Off Grid livin my dream. Remember to burn burnables and take non burnables with you. Generators welcome) Thanx!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
Burnhead Grazings

11. Burnhead Grazings

100%
(157)
52km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 4 units · Tents, Glamping · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$41
 / night
Sunset

12. Laurel Highlands Cannabis

100%
(16)
52km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome · Fayette City, PA
Laurel Highlands Cannabis is a seed to shelf farm that prides itself in top quality flower and products. We strive to create an enjoyable and safe environment for all our guest. To ensure a pleasant experience for everyone, we have established the following policies: 1. Food: Our campground offers a serene escape, to help you get to your "escape with less stress we offer a cooler of food upon your request! Our Chef will do the shopping and have it ready for you! We will cater to what you would like to eat and dietary needs. You will be responsible for the price of food plus delivery charge of $40. *Please order 24hrs prior to your arrival. 2.Dogs A- Permitted on Leash: We understand that many campers enjoy bringing their furry babies along for the adventure. Dogs are welcome at our campground, but they must be on a leash or a run. The fields have some groundhog holes, and we would be devastated if your dog was running and broke a leg if a leg slipped in a hole. We just want them safe. B- Awww poop! Alot of people use the camping area as a barefoot area so please clean up their poop. 3. Quiet time after 10PM: This just means no screaming. Play your guitar and sing until the sun rises if that makes you happy. 4. Alcohol: We would prefer you skip the drinks and just get high, but if your soul needs a drink please drink responsibly. (Don't be that guy) 5. Yurt comes down the end of September for rental. We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these policies to create a harmonious camping experience for all. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to our campground staff at info@laurelhighlandscannabisco.com Learn more about this land: You will be camping on top of our hill that overlooks the town, river, mountains and cannabis field when in season.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$60
 / night
Sunset Valley

14. Sunset Valley

100%
(21)
58km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 1 unit · Tent · Parker, PA
We have 104 acres along the Allegheny river that we are willing to share with people who enjoy the outdoors. My husband and I, have been living here for twenty years and just enjoy the beauty this valley has to offer. We see bald eagles everyday, and every once in while some otters can be seen playing in the river. Black Fox Island is visible downstream and provides a pool in the river that is a mile long. A person can easily paddle upstream; when the river is at normal summer levels. Over 100 years ago, this was an industrial area with railroads, deep mines, strip mines, and gristmills. Some remnants of those times are still visible. Paddling, biking, walking, fishing and swimming are some of the activities to do here, but doing nothing and watching the river go by seems to be the most popular.
Campfires
Toilets
Picnic table
from 
$55
 / night
River Hills Above the Allegheny

16. River Hills Above the Allegheny

100%
(525)
61km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 8 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Parker, PA
Located just outside of Parker, PA and 25 minutes from I-80, our campsite is very accessible, yet still very remote. With 4 campsites on 75 acres, guests have ample privacy and space, with the freedom to roam this posted property that has no homes on it. Perched high above the Allegheny there are several spots to take in the wonderful views. There is also a waterfall with a 3’ deep pool below it. Great for splashing with kids or dogs, guests love exploring the creek bottom and making new discoveries. The more curious guests sometimes find the ruins of the original homestead, chimney and spring house that sit upstream. The property is teeming with wildlife. Birds and tree frogs will be the soundtrack of your visit, and often deer will be seen nosing along the outskirts of your site in the mornings and evenings. Turkey, bald eagles and even bear are occasionally spotted, so be prepared to secure your food and trash at night. For those coming to disconnect, you have found the right place. But if cell service is needed, you will have enough to get texts out and depending what site you booked, calls and internet as well. For those who seek an electrical outlet AND and EV charger, we have a site for you! We also have a site with a large canvas tent already set up for your convenience. Within a 15 minute drive of your campsite you can find The North Country Trail, Rails to Trails Trailheads and Boat Launches on the Allegheny River, Groceries, dining and beer. Note: Guests wanting The River Ridge site should book their weekends far in advance, or plan a trip during weekdays!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$34
 / night
Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

17. Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

97%
(16)
66km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 99 units · Tents, Motorhomes · 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!
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
Tiny Home on the Hill

18. Tiny Home on the Hill

98%
(86)
69km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 4 units · Glamping · Harrisville, PA
Learn more about this land: The TINY HOME features: • 240 square feet plus sleeping for five. We have one queen sized and two single beds in the loft area. We have a comfortable single daybed on the first floor. We provide towels, comforters and pillows. We ask that Campers bring their own sheets or sleeping bags. House features a small kitchen and a full bathroom with a shower. We recommend short showers due to small hot water tanks. • Electric fireplace, and a split unit provides air conditioning and heat. • Refrigerator and electric stove. • Large wooden covered front porch.   The SITE also features: • Wooded trails • Three fire pits with plentiful free firewood • 250 square foot pavilion with picnic table.   • Trails thru woods plus large lawn area OTHER: We now accept pets. We charge $15.00 per pet per night. Pets must stay on the first floor. • Recommend good tires, or 4 wheel drive to get up driveway, deflating tires may be necessary in bad weather. • No Smoking Inside
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$84
 / night
Ranger's Retreat

20. Ranger's Retreat

99%
(39)
75km from Allegheny Islands State Park · 23 units · Tents, Motorhomes · 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!
Pets
Campfires
Full Hookups
from 
$35
 / night

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The best campsites in Allegheny Islands State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

Embark on a journey to Allegheny Islands State Park, a hidden gem accessible only by boat. Here, adventure awaits amid lush vegetation and the serene backdrop of the Allegheny River. While developed trails are not present, intrepid explorers can follow the footpaths that meander through the islands, offering a truly wild experience. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this park home, as you navigate the natural landscape of these riverine retreats.

When to go

The best time to visit Allegheny Islands State Park is during the warmer months when the river's conditions are ideal for boating. Summer offers lush greenery and active wildlife, making it perfect for exploration. However, be mindful of the park's tendency to flood; spring and fall may present high water levels, while winter's chill makes boat access challenging.

Know before you go

  • Ensure you have a reliable boat to access the park, as it is only reachable via the river.
  • Prepare for a rustic experience; there are no developed amenities on the islands.
  • Check river conditions and weather forecasts before your visit to avoid flood periods.
  • Respect the natural habitat by following Leave No Trace principles during your stay.
  • For any emergencies, remember that 911 is the number to call for immediate assistance.

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