Confluence is surrounded by some of the best camping in Pennsylvania. Yough Lake to the south, Ohiopyle State Park to the north, Laurel Hill State Park a short drive east. You have options for tents, RVs, cabins, and rustic dispersed sites. Here is how to pick.
Outflow Campground at Yough Lake
The closest campground to town. Five minutes from the Confluence square. US Army Corps of Engineers managed, lakeside sites, a boat launch and swim beach on site, stargazing that is genuinely incredible. Reservations open early in the season and sell out fast for summer weekends. Book at recreation.gov.
Ohiopyle State Park
Kentuck Campground up the mountain from Ohiopyle. Tent and RV sites, yurts, cottages. Handy if you are doing Fallingwater or Ohiopyle rafting and you want a base within ten minutes of both. Reserve at the Pennsylvania state park system.
Laurel Hill State Park
A bigger state park campground 25 minutes from Confluence. Laurel Hill Lake for swimming and fishing, miles of trails, and a quieter vibe than Ohiopyle in peak season. Solid family pick.
Private Options
Several private campgrounds operate around Confluence and toward Ohiopyle. Tents, RVs, full hookups, cabins, and swimming pools. Ask at Confluence Cyclery or stop in at Tissue Farm and locals will steer you to the current favorites.
Dispersed and Free
Forbes State Forest surrounds the Laurel Highlands and allows dispersed camping on state forest land with a free permit. Rustic only, no services, pack in and pack out. Great for solo trips, small groups, and the kind of night when you want no neighbors.
What to Know Before You Go
- Mosquitos and no-see-ums spike in June and July. Pack repellent.
- Black bears are in the neighborhood. Hang your food, use campground bear boxes, keep a clean site.
- Summer thunderstorms roll through fast. Pitch on higher ground.
- Cell service is spotty depending on site. Download your maps.
Making It a Town and Trail Trip
Even if you are camping, come into Confluence for at least one meal. Mornings call for breakfast at Mitches. Evenings deserve dinner at Pamela’s Pints and Provisions. You will shower at camp and not feel bad about it.
Pair this with our Yough Lake guide for water plans and our stargazing piece for the best nights under the sky.