Mountain Camping in Pennsylvania
Discover the best mountain camping across Pennsylvania. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Cherry Springs State Park
Perched atop the Allegheny Plateau at 2,300 feet, this remote highland retreat delivers sweeping views across Pennsylvania's wild mountain ridges, where dense forests of cherry, maple, and hemlock stretch endlessly toward the horizon.
Hearts Content Recreation Area
Situated in the rolling Allegheny Mountains, this campground offers direct trail access through densely forested wilderness where ridgelines and valleys create dramatic natural contours.
Ole Bull State Park
Towering hemlocks frame Kettle Creek Valley as it winds through Potter County's wilderness, where morning mists cling to forested ridges and reveal the dramatic contours of Pennsylvania's Black Forest.
About Mountain Camping in Pennsylvania
Mountain camping Pennsylvania offers some of the most diverse highland experiences in the Mid-Atlantic, from the ancient peaks of the Allegheny Plateau to the glacially-carved ridges of the Laurel Highlands. Pennsylvania's mountain ranges may not reach the dramatic elevations of western peaks, but they provide authentic wilderness experiences with old-growth forests, pristine dark skies, and remote valleys that feel worlds away from civilization.
Best Time
Late spring through early fall provides the most reliable mountain camping weather in Pennsylvania, with May through October offering the longest season for accessible highland camping. June through August delivers warm days perfect for hiking mountain trails and exploring ridgeline vistas, though these months also bring the highest visitor numbers at popular destinations like Cherry Springs and Laurel Hill.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in Pennsylvania
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve mountain campgrounds well in advance through the Pennsylvania state park system or Recreation.gov for national forest sites, as popular destinations like Cherry Springs and Hearts Content fill quickly for summer and fall weekends.
- 2Bring layered clothing regardless of season, as mountain temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees after sunset even in July, and ridge-top locations experience stronger winds than valley campgrounds.
- 3Pack a quality headlamp or flashlight with red-light mode for dark sky locations like Cherry Springs, where preserving night vision enhances stargazing experiences.
- 4Mountain roads can be challenging—check current conditions before departure and ensure your vehicle can handle steep grades and tight turns, especially if towing a trailer.
Mountain Camping in Pennsylvania FAQ
We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in Pennsylvania based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in Pennsylvania requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in Pennsylvania typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular Pennsylvania Campgrounds Book Fast
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Cherry Springs State Park
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