The best campgrounds near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with horseback riding

Outside Pennsylvania's second-largest city exists a mecca for all things nature. Camping near Pittsburg allows you to enjoy Pennsylvania's expansive pine and oak forests. The Monghale River runs through much of the region, letting outdoor lovers fish for trout, as well as largemouth bath. Some kayaking and canoeing push-off points can be found along the river, as well. Those who find themselves in or near the city can find Instagram-worthy landscapes inside the Beechview-Seldom Seen Greenway. An hour-or-so drive South-East of Downtown will treat you to the rustic, RV, tent-only, and structure camping along Savage River State Forest. (Trust us: it’s not savage, but sublime.) Those who want to experience tiny house living for themselves can book a stay at Tiny House - Big Farm Adventure to see what all the hoopla is about. Bald Eagles frequent the areas near Pittsburgh as well, so keep your eyes to the trees while you’re hiking.

98% (655) • 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Pittsburgh

Outside Pennsylvania's second-largest city exists a mecca for all things nature. Camping near Pittsburg allows you to enjoy Pennsylvania's expansive pine and oak forests. The Monghale River runs through much of the region, letting outdoor lovers fish for trout, as well as largemouth bath. Some kayaking and canoeing push-off points can be found along the river, as well. Those who find themselves in or near the city can find Instagram-worthy landscapes inside the Beechview-Seldom Seen Greenway. An hour-or-so drive South-East of Downtown will treat you to the rustic, RV, tent-only, and structure camping along Savage River State Forest. (Trust us: it’s not savage, but sublime.) Those who want to experience tiny house living for themselves can book a stay at Tiny House - Big Farm Adventure to see what all the hoopla is about. Bald Eagles frequent the areas near Pittsburgh as well, so keep your eyes to the trees while you’re hiking.

98% (655) • 24 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Pittsburgh

1. Sunnyday's Forest

97%

(73)

16mi from Pittsburgh · 2 sites · Lodging

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.

2. River Hills Above the Allegheny

100%

(525)

47mi from Pittsburgh · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

3. Runnin Crazy Farm

96%

(260)

25mi from Pittsburgh · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

4. Raccoon Creek State Park

91%

(11)

195 sites · Frankfort Springs, Pennsylvania

Wildflowers, wetlands, and woodlands provide photo-worthy views through every season.

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Campfires

5. Crooked Creek Lake

46 sites · Lenape Heights, Pennsylvania

Soothe your nerves and brush up on your history at fun and educational Crooked Creek Lake! In addition to camping by a beautiful body of water in an area that’s breathtaking anytime of year (but especially in autumn), Crooked Creek Lake offers the opportunity to journey back in time on the Auto Tour Trail. The trail provides a history of the area all the way back to the Revolutionary War and includes information about one-room schoolhouses (talk about old-school!) and the first water-powered sawmill. You'll also have a chance to visit the environmental learning center. If you’re not too distracted by enjoying the environment first-hand, that is. With picnic areas, fishing, trails and even a beach area, Crooked Creek has everything you need for a wickedly cool weekend getaway.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Cliff Mine Heights

100%

(42)

11mi from Pittsburgh · 1 site · RV

We purchased the property as a foreclosure five years ago, and have been remodeling ever since. The property is located close to all the city amenities we love, but still gives us the privacy we wanted. Learn more about this land: The RV site is next to the house and is nearly level. (30A plug available) Road is visible from RV site, large backyard with fire pit is available. Local Park, wave pool, bike trails, shopping, and local eats or all within a 5 minute drive, some even within walking distance! JoJo's dinner is just around the corner.

7. Sunset Valley

100%

(21)

45mi from Pittsburgh · 1 site · Tent

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.

8. Tomlinson Run State Park

55 sites · New Cumberland, West Virginia

Discover Tomlinson Run State Park's natural beauty and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

9. Moraine State Park

88%

(4)

13 sites · West Liberty, Pennsylvania

Snowmobiles, sailboats, and saddles all welcome.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

10. Beaver Creek State Park

25 sites · Lake Tomahawk, Ohio

Follow your bliss to Beaver Creek. Cradled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in eastern Ohio, it’s quite the sight to behold! This wonderland is comprised of Little Beaver Creek, which is a state and national wild and scenic river, and 2,722 acres of forest wilderness. The park’s rich human history, unique geology and unusual flora and fauna make it nirvana for historians and naturalists alike. Campgrounds, including group sites and a primitive area, rest along Little Beaver Creek. Several miles of hiking trails also meander along its edge, freckled with delicate wildflowers.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

11. Jefferson Lake State Park

24 sites · East Springfield, Ohio

Eager for a weekend of quiet relaxation? Get away from it all at Jefferson Lake State Park. Surrounded by aged-old oak and hickorys, you’ll feel like you’re a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Come explore Jefferson Lake’s 17 acres as you paddle around on canoe or kayak. Hit up one of the eight hiking trails to get your exercise for the day. Want to spend the whole weekend nestled amongst the trees? Pitch your tent at one of Jefferson Lake’s many first-come, first-served campsites. Now take a deep breath… you deserve to relax this weekend.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

12. Linn Run State Park

10 sites · Laurel Mountain, Pennsylvania

Discover the serene beauty of Linn Run State Park.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

13. Ohiopyle State Park

92%

(39)

224 sites · Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Kai

December 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Cliff Mine Heights

Great location, easy to access, and the host was lovely!

W

Wayne

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

Beautiful campsite with an amazing view and privacy. Wish I spent more time hiking nearby.

K

Kathleen

October 2025

Tent

1 night at River Hills Above the Allegheny

OMG What a place ! Pure heaven. Wonderful views Great astronomy photos. This place is the whole package Chris is above and beyond

A

Amber

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

We had a wonderful October camp trip! The views were absolutely amazing. Chris was so quick to respond to my messages and answered any questions I had. We will definitely be back. :)

T

Tom

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Runnin Crazy Farm

Description was detailed and goat sounds were real. Horses roam in their fenced area.

Jacob

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

Excellent place to stay & so close to Pittsburgh! Definitely coming back.

R

Ryan

October 2025

1 night at Sunnyday's Forest

Highly recommend the horse back riding! What a unique offering with your cabin stay. I will be straight, the cabin is for true woodsmen - it's raw, it's that's your cup of joe, I highly recommend this stay, I had a blast!!

A

Angelica

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

Such a beautiful place!! Chris was a responsive and welcoming host and the land and surrounding areas were so fun to explore. We already want to book another trip!

H

Haroon

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sunnyday's Forest

Was a great time staying at the cabin. The weather was great so that helped.

M

Mark

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Runnin Crazy Farm

IT WAS MY 2ND VISIT..........LOVE THE HORSE TRAILER SITE UP ON THE HILL IN THE HORSE PASTURE...LOVE THE HORSES TOO! GREAT FOR SUNSETS AND STAR GAZING!

Hilary

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Runnin Crazy Farm

It's very peaceful here and enjoy hearing the animals. The adorable goats introducedthemselvis as I was packing up in the morning. -so cute. I love Goats! (Rooster crowed just before my actual alarm clock-LOL). I value privacy and safety and slept well. I slept in my SUV. I have an airmattress and sleeping pad that keeps me comfortable. I plan to be back next time I need to travel to PGH.

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sunset Valley

Paul and Valerie’s place is so peaceful. They and their neighbors are so kind and welcoming. Beautiful water and sunsets. We’ll be back.

D

Dylan

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Sunnyday's Forest

Gerald's beautiful place was peaceful and serene, with a very functional fire pit and picnic tables for s'mores and grilling. Would absolutely stay again and recommend to anyone willing to walk a bit to get away from the roads, it's worth it.

L

Lauren

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at River Hills Above the Allegheny

We love this property. Our third visit. No complaints!

C

Chelsea

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

The view is absolutely amazing! This was a great secluded campsite if you’re looking for privacy and beautiful scenery for a relaxing weekend getaway.

A

Allison

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

We had the best time camping! Exploring the land and creek was a blast. We only left the campsite once to adventure for a few hours in the surrounding towns. The creek/waterfall was amazing. Our dogs swam and we hiked down the water, it was too cold for us to go in. The site was very shaded which we loved!! Can’t wait to come back!

Wai Bun

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

The site is located at the top of the hill. It is very quiet and the sunrise is amazing. The driving instructions are very simple and clear.

R

Rose

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Runnin Crazy Farm

I really enjoyed getting to camp out in a place surrounded by the sight and sound of goats, chickens and horses. I loved the fact that although it's surrounded by forest, the hillside is fairly open and floods with bright morning sunlight. I even got a tour of the farm to pet the animals!

M

Matthew

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Hills Above the Allegheny

We had a great time last weekend. Quiet, clean, and private. 4 wheel drive is a must in inclement weather, but nothing an average SUV couldn’t handle. The photos don’t do it justice; the views are spectacular!

N

Nick

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Runnin Crazy Farm

Rented on spur of the moment with some friends and we were all very pleased! Beautiful farm and very friendly, helpful and accommodating family. Definitely interested in coming back and would recommend to others!