Lakeside Campground

As Pennsylvanians, we cherish our state's rich history, vibrant cities, and, perhaps most of all, its stunning natural landscapes. From the rolling hills of the Laurel Highlands to the serene waters of our many lakes, finding an ideal spot to unwind and reconnect with nature is always a priority. For those seeking a quintessential camping experience, complete with lakeside charm and abundant outdoor activities, look no further than Lakeside Campground, nestled within the beloved Keystone State Park in Derry, PA. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to an unforgettable Pennsylvania adventure, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities.

Lakeside Campground truly lives up to its name, providing direct access to the inviting waters of Keystone Lake. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds, with the sun glinting off the water, and the promise of a day filled with fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore. The campground is part of Keystone State Park, a jewel of the Pennsylvania State Parks system, known for its tranquil environment and diverse recreational opportunities. It’s a destination that caters to all types of outdoor enthusiasts, from those seeking a rustic tent camping experience to families desiring the comforts of a cabin or the unique charm of a yurt.

What makes Lakeside Campground particularly appealing to locals is its balance of accessibility and immersion in nature. It's close enough to major population centers in Western Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, making it a feasible weekend escape or a longer vacation destination without extensive travel. Yet, once you arrive, you're transported to a peaceful country atmosphere, where the daily stresses melt away amidst the scenic beauty of the Laurel Highlands. The park's commitment to maintaining clean facilities and well-kept grounds ensures a pleasant and comfortable stay, allowing you to focus on enjoying the outdoors.

Many Pennsylvanians return to Lakeside Campground year after year, drawn by its welcoming atmosphere and the sheer variety of activities available. Whether you're casting a line into the lake, exploring miles of hiking trails, or simply enjoying a campfire with loved ones under the starlit sky, Lakeside Campground provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories. It embodies the spirit of Pennsylvania's outdoor heritage, offering a refreshing and accessible retreat for everyone.

Lakeside Campground is located within Keystone State Park, with its address being Derry, PA 15627, USA. This prime location places it in Westmoreland County, a part of the picturesque Laurel Highlands region of Western Pennsylvania. The park is easily accessible, situated just off major routes, making it a convenient destination for residents of Pittsburgh, Latrobe, Greensburg, and other surrounding communities.

For those traveling by car, Keystone State Park is typically less than an hour's drive east of Pittsburgh, providing a quick transition from urban life to natural tranquility. The well-maintained roads leading to and within the park ensure a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including RVs. Its proximity to various regional attractions, while maintaining a secluded feel, makes it an ideal base camp for exploring the wider Laurel Highlands area. The strategic placement ensures that you can enjoy the peace of the campground while having easy access to local towns for supplies, dining, or additional sightseeing.

• Diverse Camping Options: Lakeside Campground offers a variety of camping experiences. This includes modern campsites suitable for tents and RVs, with many featuring electric and non-electric hookups. Additionally, for those seeking more comfort, camping cottages and unique yurts are available, providing a rustic yet comfortable stay. Many RV sites come with full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) on gravel pads, each supplied with a picnic table and fire ring.

• Rental Accommodations: Beyond traditional campsites, the campground offers rental campers (like Jayco and Springdale models) and modern cabins, which can sleep multiple guests and come equipped with essential amenities such as beds, bathrooms (in cabins), kitchens, and comfortable seating areas. Yurts also offer electricity, a cooking stove, microwave oven, and refrigerator.

• Restrooms and Showers: Both campgrounds (Lakeside and Hillside) within Keystone State Park have modern restrooms with warm showers, maintained to a high standard of cleanliness, ensuring a comfortable experience for all campers.

• Swimming Beach: Keystone Lake features a designated swimming beach that is open daily during the summer season (Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend), providing a refreshing way to cool off on warm days.

• Boat Launch and Rentals: A boat launch is available for non-powered and electric-powered boats. Boat rentals (rowboats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboats) and a shop with basic camping and fishing supplies are conveniently located at the main boat launch. Ethanol-free boat gasoline is also available.

• Fishing Access: The lake is well-stocked with various fish species, including trout, providing excellent fishing opportunities year-round. Fishing piers and the ability to fish from the shore make it accessible for all skill levels.

• On-site Store/Concession: A small store or concession stand is available during peak seasons for snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and basic camping or fishing supplies.

• Pet-Friendly Sites: Designated pet-friendly campsites are available, primarily in the Hillside Campground loop, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.

• Sanitary Dump Station: An on-site sanitary dump station is available for RVs, providing convenience for waste disposal.

• Seasonal Activities: While specific schedules vary, Lakeside Campground, and Keystone State Park generally, offers a range of planned activities, especially during peak season and holiday weekends, which can include fishing derbies, movie nights, and other family-friendly events.

• WiFi Access: While specific coverage may vary, some information suggests WiFi is available to guests, allowing for some connectivity during their stay.

• Picturesque Lake Access: The most prominent feature is direct access to Keystone Lake, a 78-acre lake perfect for fishing, electric motor boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming at the sandy beach. The lake views from many campsites are a major draw.

• Extensive Trail System: Keystone State Park boasts 8 miles of diverse trails, including the ADA-accessible Lakeside Loop that encircles the lake, and more challenging routes like the Stone Lodge Trail. These trails are ideal for hiking, walking, and wildlife watching year-round.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground and park are designed with families in mind, offering a safe environment with a playground area near the campground and various activities suitable for children.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the park, including the modern bathhouses and well-kept grounds, which significantly enhance the camping experience.

• Historic Context: Keystone State Park has a fascinating history, named after the Keystone Coal and Coke Company, reflecting the region's coal mining heritage. The lake itself was created by the Keystone Dam in 1909.

• Winter Recreation: Beyond the warmer months, the park offers winter activities such as ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing when conditions permit, extending its recreational appeal.

• Variety of Lodging Experiences: The ability to choose between traditional tent sites, full-hookup RV sites, rustic camping cottages, modern cabins, and unique yurts provides flexibility for every type of camper and budget.

• Wildlife Observation: The diverse ecosystems within the park provide opportunities for bird watching and observing local wildlife, enhancing the natural experience.

• Proximity to Laurel Highlands Attractions: While a peaceful retreat, Lakeside Campground is a great base for exploring wider attractions in the Laurel Highlands, including Idlewild Park & SoakZone, Fort Ligonier, and the scenic beauty of Ohiopyle State Park, as well as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater.

Address: Derry, PA 15627, USA (within Keystone State Park)

For specific park inquiries and information, it's recommended to contact the main park office. While a direct phone number for "Lakeside Campground" isn't separately listed, the general number for Keystone State Park handles all camping-related inquiries:

Keystone State Park Office Phone: (724) 668-2939

For reservations, call the Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center toll-free at: 1-888-PA-PARKS (1-888-727-2757)

For residents of Pennsylvania, Lakeside Campground at Keystone State Park represents an ideal blend of convenience, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Its location in Derry, within easy driving distance of major population centers like Pittsburgh, makes it an incredibly accessible option for a quick weekend escape or a more extended family vacation without the hassle of long-distance travel. This proximity means less time on the road and more time enjoying the great outdoors that our state is so famous for.

What truly sets Lakeside Campground apart for locals is its versatility. Whether you own an RV, prefer the simplicity of tent camping, or want to experience the comfort of a modern cabin or a unique yurt, there's an accommodation type to suit your preference and budget. This flexibility makes it a go-to destination for diverse groups, from families with young children eager for a beach day to couples seeking a peaceful fishing retreat, or active adventurers looking to explore miles of hiking trails. The well-maintained facilities, including clean bathhouses and various amenities, contribute to a comfortable and worry-free stay, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

The array of on-site activities, from swimming and boating on Keystone Lake to fishing and exploring trails, means there's always something to do, ensuring that every member of the family finds something to enjoy. Furthermore, being part of the Pennsylvania State Park system guarantees a certain level of quality and commitment to preserving the natural environment, which is something Pennsylvanians deeply appreciate. Lakeside Campground is not just a place to stay; it's a cherished local resource that provides a refreshing and accessible gateway to the outdoor lifestyle that defines our beloved Keystone State, fostering a deeper connection with the natural beauty right in our backyard.