The best camping in Keystone State Park, PA

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Get back to nature with a glistening lake, soaring herons, twinkling fireflies and, oh yes, a yurt  

The best camping in Keystone State Park, PA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Burnhead Grazings

3. Burnhead Grazings

100%
(157)
17mi from Keystone State Park · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night
Ranger's Retreat

4. Ranger's Retreat

99%
(39)
21mi from Keystone State Park · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

5. Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

97%
(16)
22mi from Keystone State Park · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night
Sycamore Island

9. Sycamore Island

100%
(14)
26mi from Keystone State Park · 1 site · 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
from 
$10
 / night
Gordon Glen Woods

11. Gordon Glen Woods

100%
(25)
28mi from Keystone State Park · 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
The drive to the property

12. All Ferns Most of the Time

97%
(67)
30mi from Keystone State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Rockwood, PA
This spot is best for a van camp location but plenty of space for tents and hammocks. You'll find a drive-up deck if you wish to park there. Firewood is available providing you use downfalls as kindling in the stone fire pit. A 8x20' deck and picnic table are 20 feet from the fire for stargazing. When the ferns are full grown they are 3 feet tall and everywhere. A 10 minute walk takes you through a dense pine forest with large rock formations and a nice creek with many gurgling fall areas. If there looks like a cave amongst the large rocks, then it probably is a bear den. There is a lot to do near by. Some note worthy locations : Cranberry Glade Lake (good for kayaking or fishing), Ohiopyle, 7 Springs, Fallingwater, Living Treasures, Caddie Shak, and Hidden Valley are all about 25 minutes away. This property also borders Laurel Ridge State Park. There is a Dollar General and a gas station about 15 minutes away for convenience needs.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$34
 / night
Sunnyday's Forest

13. Sunnyday's Forest

97%
(73)
31mi from Keystone State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Tarentum, PA
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 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
Large open space

14. Slice of Solitude

100%
(37)
32mi from Keystone State Park · 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Sunset

16. Laurel Highlands Cannabis

100%
(16)
33mi from Keystone State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · 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
from 
$60
 / night
Private Riverside Retreat

18. Private Riverside Retreat

96%
(24)
38mi from Keystone State Park · 1 site · Tent · Confluence, PA
Immerse yourself in nature at our Riverside Retreat situated on the Middle Yough River and Great Allegheny Passage Trail. Our expansive private campsite allows you to pitch tents directly on the river bank, down the river hill out of sight from passing cyclists. Our property borders the GAP bike trail for easy access to premiere cycling. Ride your bike 1 mile upstream to the town of Confluence and the Youghiogheny River Lake Dam, or 9 miles downstream to enjoy extensive outdoor activities in the town of Ohiopyle. Experience first class year round trout fishing just a few steps into the river where beautiful rainbow and brown trout thrive. Wildlife sightings are common at the campsite where you can spot ducks, ospreys, bald eagles, and river otters. Family friendly activities abound, such as water play in the river and train watching the historic B&O railroad, an active cargo train line across the river. Boating enthusiasts will enjoy easy river access for recreational paddling directly off the campsite, while more adventurous boaters can challenge themselves further downstream with renowned whitewater paddling on the Middle and Lower Yough. Tubing is also a popular activity on our calm section of the river. Explore interesting sites a short drive away, such as Fallingwater, Ohiopyle State Park, Fort Necessity National Battlefield, and Laurel Caverns. Pay a visit to the quaint town of Confluence to stock up on all your provisions and essentials just one mile from the campsite. Enjoy the best of both worlds: the seclusion of a private campsite immersed in nature, combined with convenient amenities. Spread out your tents along the river, utilize your private porta potty, use the fire pit to cook under the stars, and enjoy direct river access. Parking is conveniently located just uphill from your campsite, overlooking the river. Experience everything the Laurel Highlands has to offer at our Riverside Retreat!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Ferns in the Forest

19. Ferns in the Forest

100%
(104)
40mi from Keystone State Park · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging · Farmington, PA
Learn more about this land: This wooded area is 5 miles away from the Ohiopyle State Park whitewater launch area and GAP bike trail. We are less than 9 miles from Frank Lloyd Wright's Classic Fallingwater and about 8 miles from Kentuck Knob one of the last resident homes he designed (both are open for tours). Fort Necessity National Battlefield is 5 miles away. There are numerous native trout streams in the area. Youghiogheny Reservoir is 7 miles away for fishing, boat rentals, and water-sports. The Fern House is the primary camp cabin on the property. Although if someone would want to park a "self contained" camper or small RV on the property we would permit the unit to occupy the area in front of the driveway just pass the entrance gate. It is not within the ferns and is next to the road. There is an electrical outlet available at this small RV or van camper site. We are "nice pet" friendly. Dogs should not be left in the cabin alone. We have a mountain spring (when the spring is running) up the trail road (450 feet away). The ferns will normally be in full glory by the end of May to mid September and are amazing, covering the forest floor. Deer, bear, wild turkey, fox, chipmunks, squirrels and many woodland birds abound the property especially owls. A picnic table, fire ring and firewood is available on the property. Free WiFi on the property as long as the plant life is not too thick! There is a mile hiking loop right on the property and many challenging trails in the area, including the starting point for the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. No smoking is permitted in the cabin. Read the entire narrative on the cabin (Tiny Fern House) before booking.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$29
 / night
Ridge Top Retreat

20. Ridge Top Retreat

100%
(26)
42mi from Keystone State Park · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds

Burnhead Grazings

100%
(157)
17mi from Keystone State Park · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$41
 / night

Ranger's Retreat

99%
(39)
21mi from Keystone State Park · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

Family Summer Camp Rv & Tent Sites

97%
(16)
22mi from Keystone State Park · 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$42
 / night

Sycamore Island

100%
(14)
26mi from Keystone State Park · 1 site · 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
from 
$10
 / night

Gordon Glen Woods

100%
(25)
28mi from Keystone State Park · 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night

All Ferns Most of the Time

97%
(67)
30mi from Keystone State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Rockwood, PA
This spot is best for a van camp location but plenty of space for tents and hammocks. You'll find a drive-up deck if you wish to park there. Firewood is available providing you use downfalls as kindling in the stone fire pit. A 8x20' deck and picnic table are 20 feet from the fire for stargazing. When the ferns are full grown they are 3 feet tall and everywhere. A 10 minute walk takes you through a dense pine forest with large rock formations and a nice creek with many gurgling fall areas. If there looks like a cave amongst the large rocks, then it probably is a bear den. There is a lot to do near by. Some note worthy locations : Cranberry Glade Lake (good for kayaking or fishing), Ohiopyle, 7 Springs, Fallingwater, Living Treasures, Caddie Shak, and Hidden Valley are all about 25 minutes away. This property also borders Laurel Ridge State Park. There is a Dollar General and a gas station about 15 minutes away for convenience needs.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$34
 / night

Sunnyday's Forest

97%
(73)
31mi from Keystone State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Tarentum, PA
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 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night

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The best camping in Keystone State Park, PA guide

Overview

About

When you need a break from city life, this park provides an idyllic oasis. Located in Derry Township, this 1,200-acre park offers swimming, boating, and multiple hiking trails. In spring, the flora and fauna are visual treats, from colorful wildflowers to migrating birds.

Boaters with a launching permit can put in at the north shore. Boats and canoes are available for rental near the main launch. Fishing is open year-round, with trout and largemouth bass among the favorite catches.

A sandy beach borders the swimming area, which is open Memorial Day to Labor Day. Plan a cookout in a covered pavilion, or grab munchies at the concession. In winter, you can ice skate on the lake or cross-country ski on the trails.

Two campgrounds offer about 100 ADA accessible sites, some with electric hookups. Modern cabins with full kitchens sleep up to six and are located near the dam. More rustic overnight accommodations include three camping cottages and two yurts with cooking facilities.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Keystone State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers a full bloom of activities, but also brings crowds. Winters can be harsh, making some areas less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking and outdoor activities.
  • Remember to pack out all your trash and respect wildlife habitats.
  • Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
  • Accessible facilities are available; inquire at the park office for more information.
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