Camping in Ohiopyle State Park

94% (36 reviews)

Hiking, mountain biking, or whitewater rafting? Pick your challenge at Ohiopyle.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Kentuck Campground

94%

(36)

224 sites · RVs, Tents · In Ohiopyle State Park

Okay, campers, if you’re looking for a unique camping experience close to major metropolitan areas, you’ve got to hang your hat at Kentuck Campground in Ohiopyle State Park

94% (36 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ohiopyle State Park adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Ohiopyle State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Ohiopyle State Park

99%

(155)

Bear Run Farms

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents130 acres · Mount Storm, WV

We recently received a 2024 GLAMPY Award and we're ranked 3rd Best camping and glamping destination in the USA!! Our property features a pristine private blue water lake with a glamping cabin available lakeside, overlooking the water as well as many forested and lakeside tent and RV sites available as well. There is an abundance of local hiking trails, some with waterfalls, scenic train rides, 3 large lakes within 40 min for boating and fishing, horseback riding nearby, or just take in the relaxing natural beauty of our sites and immerse yourself in nature! Farm fresh eggs available! Fresh linens and towels provided in cabins!

98%

(47)

WonderWoods at Rocky Gap

3 sites · Lodging, Tents4 acres · 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. - A picnic table, fire pit, and two Adirondack chairs are available at each campsite for your use. - Wifi available. - Plentiful firewood, available on a pay-what-you-will basis. Enjoy your stay!

95%

(217)

Sleepy Hollow Campground

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Grantsville, MD

This property and farm has been in our family for 3 generations. In 1964 my grandfather started the campground due to limited camping at New Germany. My father tells stories of it being filled with guests all summer long! Over the years there was few upgrades and now it's in need of a facelift. Landscaping, electric upgrades and bathhouse remodels were completed Spring 2021. We will continue to renovate in phases it's been a labor of love, but you can still see the beauty of this rural location and enjoy the peace and quiet. Hope you enjoy your stay. Lots of trees, shade and nature. It's located near New Germany State Park, 1.5 miles by car, less than a mile by foot. The state park has a lake and hiking trails. Garrett County has so much to offer, waterfalls, lakes, hiking, skiing, Amish gifts, history, fresh air, beautiful scenery. The campground was first started in 1964 by my grandparents, we are currently completing renovations in phases.

Ragtavern Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Terra Alta, WV

Wilderness camping off the beaten path with streams and nature to enjoy. You will have a quiet and relaxing camp with nothing but babbling brooks and campfire crackling. Easy access to Allegheny Trail Trailhead 178-188 Peddlers Glory trail which is an old roadbed that follows the creek and used to be a state-maintained road once upon a time. It is still a great hiking trail and is a very popular trail for UTV's and ATV's accessible from this site. Ragtavern Road also offers miles of back country exploring and riding adventures as well. Local places to enjoy include High Ground Brewery, Portland Coffee shop, and Sophies Serendipity with farm to table food all within 4 miles.

83%

(3)

Private Riverside Retreat

1 site · Tent1 acre · 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!

100%

(9)

Sycamore Island

1 site · Tent14 acres · 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 canoe, kayak, or rowboat. 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.

Booked 2 times

Camp Serenity

2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Springfield, WV

Camp Serenity is 2 acres of private property located on the beautiful South Branch Potomac River in Springfield, WV. You’ll be steps away from your private river rock beach providing easy access to the river for various activities. Enjoy the pavilion and grill some tasty food while watching the river flow by. It sounds amazing too! Enjoy a quiet evening at the fire pit. Wake up to the chirping birds, so peaceful. Key Features and Activities: Water Activities: Kayaking: Easy launching from your private beach. The South Branch Potomac offers options for remote paddling experiences. Tubing: Enjoy floating down the river. Swimming: The river provides opportunities for playing and swimming off of your private beach. Fishing: Cast a reel directly from the property. The South Branch Potomac River is a prime location for fly fishing. It's home to species like trout, smallmouth bass, and catfish. You’ll find some great fishing spots near the South Branch River Wildlife Management Area, which is a peaceful place to cast a line. Make sure to check the local regulations, as fishing in this area can be quite regulated. Camp Serenity is a great place to enjoy the tranquility and activities offered by the South Branch Potomac River in West Virginia. Enjoy the beauty of the river and the peaceful atmosphere. you may just see bald eagles, ospreys or deer. Nearby Activities: The South Branch Potomac River is described as an ideal location for outdoor exploration and relaxation, including picnicking along its banks. The South Branch Valley Railroad is a scenic short-line railroad that operates in the eastern part of West Virginia, offering train rides through the picturesque South Branch Valley. The railroad, which runs along the historic route once operated by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, has become popular for those who want to experience the natural beauty of the area from a unique vantage point. If your wanting a tasty Ice Cream go to Hanging Rocks Ice Cream its a great place to sit and visit with friends and family, play a round of checkers or corn hole, relax in the rockers or sit on the front lawn and take in the farm scenery all while indulging in delicious ice cream!" Come experience the beauty that West Virginia has to offer!

94%

(126)

Abrams Creek Campground/Retreat

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Mt. Storm, WV

Abrams Creek is like camping in a nature preserve, rather than in a commercial campground. On our campground, there are no generators, loud electronics, or other things that would distract from appreciating the sights and sounds of this pristine natural environment. And this is always a great place to beat the heat! We have a mountain climate; the peak temperature most days in the summer is in the high 70's or very low 80's, and at night, temperatures go down to about 60. You'll be breathing cool, clean, fresh mountain air all day long! Hot showers are included, and all sanitary facilities are *sterilized* between guests. We have taken every measure to safeguard your health! We are located in the mountainous Potomac Highlands region of West Virginia. Our vision is an environmentally conscious, eco-friendly campground developed in harmony with nature. We are not only a business, but also serve as an anchor for others who want to live more simply and close to the earth. The concept of rural revitalization means reinventing rural life so that it is economically sound, intellectually stimulating, and emotionally satisfying. Ask any of our staff if you would like to learn more about this!

93%

(27)

Wild Cherry Camp 🍒

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Rowlesburg, WV

Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in the Appalachian mountains of Wild Wonderful West Virginia. There are two riverfront campsites for you to choose from @ Wild Cherry Camp. All of the camp sites have a beautiful view of the Cheat river in Rowlesburg, WV. You can swim, float, or kayak in the river & camp. Parking is available on site.

99%

(91)

Cheat View Outpost

2 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Masontown, WV

On the edge of Cheat CanyonLearn more about this land:Several romote tent sites to choose from close to stream and trails Room for campers in meadow

98%

(22)

Ranger's Retreat

21 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · 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!

96%

(109)

Footbridge Haven Farm

2 sites · Tents25 acres · Mt Pleasant, PA

My wife and I and our four children moved to this 25 acre farm in 2017, and the creek and adjoining Mammoth Park soon became our favorite spots to relax. Our two boys swim and fish in the holes, while the girls enjoy picking flowers and making "houses" among the trees. We also love hosting friends and family for cookouts, or spending a Sunday afternoon in the cool shade beside the creek. On our 15 acres of pasture land, we raise chickens, pigs, a few dairy cows, and some steers. We are not a certified organic farm, but we raise our animals on pasture grass as much as possible, without chemicals or synthetic fertilizers. The Mammoth Park, which adjoins our property, features a 20-acre lake, a new 9-hole disc golf course, walking trails, pavilions, ball fields, a giants slide, RC airstrip, and more. We'd love to share our favorite spots with you! Learn more about this land: Relax to the sound of the babbling brook, stroll through woods and pastures, cool off in the stream, or join us for an outdoor milking experience. Take a hike, catch a sunset view, firsh or throw a round of disc golf at the beautiful Westmoreland County Mammoth Park. Our 25-acre farm is located at the base of the Chestnut Ridge in the Laurel Highlands, beside the Westmoreland County Mammoth Park. Our camp site features a pavilion, fire place with a grill, fire ring, and swings, all beside the beautiful, clear waters of the Welty Run. You can park at our buildings and walk to your site, or park at the site. Small campers are allowed with 4x4 vehicles. Nearby attractions include golf courses, state parks in the Laurel Highlands, Frank Lloyd Wright houses, caverns, and white water rafting. Or, schedule your stay around our local events like the Westmoreland County Airshow, Westmoreland County Fair, or the one-of-a-kind Kecksburg UFO festival. Whether you're looking for a beautiful, relaxing retreat, or a base camp for exploring the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania, we look forward to hosting you at the Footbridge Haven Campsite. Directions: On Blacksmith Road off of Rt 982, you will pass our house (715) on the left, with 2 driveways. Go past both driveways, and you will see a pasture fence on your left. Continue to the end of the fence. There, turn left between the telephone pole and the corner of the fence. There is an opening in the trees, leading to the site. There is a picture of the entrance in the pictures.

The best camping near Ohiopyle State Park guide

Overview

About

With 20,500 acres of rugged woodlands, waterfalls, and rambling rivers on the southern cusp of the Laurel Highlands—Ohiopyle State Park is bursting with outdoor adventures. The Youghiogheny River Gorge has some of the busiest whitewater rafting runs east of the Mississippi with class III and IV rapids. Hiking trails total 79 miles, including the 27-mile multi-use Youghiogheny River Trail, shared by bikers and cross-country skiers. Need more options? How about rock climbing, horseback riding, sledding, or snowmobiling? Seasonal camping is available at the Kentuck Campground, which also has camping cottages, yurts, and 27 walk-in, tent-only sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve one of 207 campsites, six cottages, and four yurts via the Pennsylvania State Parks website.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance; cottages and yurts must be reserved a minimum of three days in advance.
Campsites can book up fast, especially if visiting during peak season (June to September) or on holiday weekends. Aim to book at least three months in advance; more for cottages and yurts.

When to go

Millions of visitors come to Ohiopyle State Park each year, and crowds are inevitable at popular trails and viewpoints—avoid summer and holiday weekends if you want to dodge the masses. Camping is seasonal at Ohiopyle, and Kentuck Campground opens from April through mid-December. The main whitewater rafting season is April to October, but the falls are only open when the area is staffed, so check dates in advance.

Know before you go

Ohiopyle State Park is about 70 miles southeast of Pittsburgh or about a 75-minute drive away. PA 381 runs through the park.
There are no admission fees for Pennsylvania state parks, but campsite booking fees apply.
Facilities include a visitor center, restrooms, picnic areas, and an electric car charging station.
Fires are only permitted in grills and fire rings.
You can bring your own non-powered watercraft to the Youghiogheny River, but restrictions apply. Guided whitewater rafting tours are available for all levels.
ADA-accessible campsites, cottages, yurts, and restrooms are available, in addition to some accessible trails and viewpoints.

94%

36 ratings · 12 reviews

Not recommend

· March 2023

Kentuck Campground

We are at the end of a 10 week, 16 State trip in our small 22' truck camper. This is hands down the worst CG we have stayed at, and it is $55/night! Bathrooms are atrocious, sites unlevel and no water at sites. Arrived at 2:30pm, with a reservation. No one to check you in. No "Reserved" tag at site or any other info at deserted check-in office. Host was ignorant and uninformed. Horrible CG.

Richard H.

3 years on Hipcamp

August 2020

Kentuck Campground

Spent a Monday night here at Site Elm 67. I usually like PA state parks because they are clean, well maintained, and the rules are enforced. In this case, the site was clean and maintained but the restrooms were dirty and in disrepair, quiet hours were not enforced and we did not see a ranger or camp host our entire time there. Several sites were competing to see who could play their music the loudest until well after midnight. They were asked several times to obey the quiet hours but were drinking (also not usually allowed) and were less than accommodating. With no ranger or host, there was little else we could do. I would not return to this campground.

Bradley H.

4 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2019

Kentuck Campground

It's large but always a fun place to be - so much to do in Ohiopyle.

Grace A.

2 reviews

July 2018

Kentuck Campground

The campground is located in a beautiful forested setting. The sites seem to vary in size, and not all are on flat ground. The walk in sites particularly didn't seem very level, and was quite a walk to some of them. Some of the walk in sites seem a little more private than the drive in sites. Bathrooms were convenient and remained clean throughout the stay. Rangers were friendly. Didn't seem to be too much of a party atmosphere, but I was staying during the week.

Booked91@Gmail.Com T.

6 years on Hipcamp

June 2018

Kentuck Campground

Spent Memorial Day weekend here. And it rained almost the entire weekend but site 008 on Aspen had lots of trees to hang tarps which provided good coverage. Sites are spacious enough and the walk to the showers and bathrooms are not too far. Aspen is near the front of the camground so it was easy to get out and take advantage of all that the area has to offer. One note: this was one of the most highly patrolled campgrounds we've been to and were questioned over drinking a bottle of root beer. Might have been due to the holiday weekend but I've never seen more rangers before so don't forget koozies or red Solo cups.

Patrice M.

4 reviews

Mixed feelings

· December 2017

Kentuck Campground

Have good shoes its a good hike

Joshua J.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2017

Kentuck Campground

Limited cellphone coverage on the mountain, plan accordingly. Also, lots and lots of adorable chipmunks. Fall is beautiful!

Brittany L.

7 years on Hipcamp

October 2017

Kentuck Campground

Stayed here with in the summer with my co-leader and 4 campers, and we had a great time despite the rain. We stayed in the group camping area, and were closer to the bathhouses than we had been at other campgrounds. The staff was nice and helpful, and the campground is close to Ohiopyle.

Jenna L.

7 reviews

Recommends

· July 2017

Kentuck Campground

Beautiful place! Many things to do at Ohiopyle State Park

Rachel H.

7 years on Hipcamp

July 2016

Kentuck Campground

Tent camped July 2016, site 069 Elm rd. Very quiet during the week, but the weekends are very different. Packed on weekend- surrounded by families. The walk-in sites are truly far off the road, and some are very private, but many are actually visible to other campers (many walk-ins are really a long long walk- better not be carrying a lot). Pretty typical state campground type sites mostly, fairly convenient to bathrooms and water. Ice and firewood available at camp entrance. Not too many showers. Bikers can get to the GAP trail via a very steep hillside- not good if your bike is loaded. The main road is very windy, steep and dangerous for bikes. Literally across the road leading to Kentuck Knob Frank Lloyd Wright house.

Tina E.

8 years on Hipcamp

December 2015

Kentuck Campground

Both the hike-in and drive-in camping at Kentuck are great. They have the perfect combo of festive & chill vibes - you've got campers enjoying nature with a drink and a smile, but from my experience, nobody who's just there for a place to party. Love the respectful community here. Plus, great hiking & biking networks all around!