Quemahoning Family Recreation Area

Hello, Pennsylvania outdoor lovers! Are you dreaming of a tranquil lakeside retreat where you can unwind, swim, fish, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature? Look no further than the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area in Hollsopple, PA. Serving as the only public access point to the breathtaking 900-acre Quemahoning Reservoir, this facility is far more than just a campground; it’s a full-service recreational area designed for diverse outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent under the stars, bring your RV for a comfortable stay, or enjoy the rustic charm of a timber-frame cabin, the "Que" offers a fantastic opportunity to get away from it all right here in our wonderful state.

Pennsylvania's landscapes offer a rich variety of natural beauty, and the Quemahoning Reservoir, with its clear waters and surrounding hills, is a testament to this. The Quemahoning Family Recreation Area capitalizes on this stunning setting, providing a welcoming environment for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. While some park visitors have voiced concerns regarding trail maintenance and pet policies, the overall sentiment regarding the camping and general recreational experience points to it as an "amazing" and "great place for relaxing." The opportunity to enjoy aquatic activities, from electric boating and kayaking to swimming in a designated beach area, truly sets this destination apart. Let's delve into what makes the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area a compelling choice for your next outdoor adventure in Pennsylvania.

The Quemahoning Family Recreation Area is conveniently located at Quemahoning Dam Rd, Hollsopple, PA 15935, USA. This places it within Somerset County, in the scenic Laurel Highlands region of Southwestern Pennsylvania. For residents across the state, particularly those in Pittsburgh, Johnstown, or Altoona, the recreation area is an accessible drive, providing a refreshing escape into a picturesque natural setting. Its prime location on the Quemahoning Reservoir means that water-based activities are at the forefront of the experience.

Accessibility to the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area is straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading directly to the park entrance. It’s well-signed, making it easy to find for campers and day-use visitors alike. The facility is designed to accommodate various vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and RVs of different sizes. While it offers a sense of being immersed in nature, it's not so isolated that essential amenities are out of reach; nearby Hollsopple and other communities in Somerset County can provide supplies and services. The park is generally open for day use from 10 AM to 8:00 PM, with the boat launch accessible 24 hours a day, catering to different schedules. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal hours or specific operational changes, especially during the shoulder seasons.

Quemahoning Family Recreation Area prides itself on being a "full-service campground and recreational area," offering a comprehensive array of amenities to enhance your stay.

• Tent Campsites: Over 30 different tent campsites are available, with options ranging from heavily wooded sites for shade to those right on the lake with small boat access. All tent sites are a short walk from the shower house and water.
• RV Campsites: There are 28 RV sites available for pop-up campers, fifth-wheel trailers, travel trailers, and motorhomes. All RV sites have a firm packed pad, fire ring, picnic table, and 110V/30 amp electric service. Select sites also offer 50 amp service. A central sewage dump and water fill station are nearby.
• Rustic Cabins: Four hand-built timber frame rustic cabins are available, each furnished with two sets of bunk beds, a picnic table, a fire ring, and two parking spots. These cabins have electricity and a mini-fridge but no plumbing (water spigots and shower house/restrooms are nearby). No pets are allowed in the cabins.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained shower houses and restrooms are conveniently located throughout the campground.
• Picnic Pavilions: Various sizes of pavilions (large, medium, small) are available for group gatherings, complete with picnic tables and fire rings/grills.
• Boat Launch: A 24-hour boat launch provides public access to the Quemahoning Reservoir. Note that only electric-operated boats are permitted on the reservoir, ensuring a peaceful aquatic environment.
• Swim Beach: A designated swim beach offers a safe and enjoyable area for swimming in the reservoir.
• Yak Shak: An on-site concession offering kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, and bike rentals, along with refreshments, fishing tackle/bait, and ice.
• Playground: A children's playground is available for younger campers.
• Sports Fields: Facilities for basketball, softball, and soccer are provided for active recreation.
• Walking/Mountain Biking Trails: Trails are available for both walking and mountain biking around the reservoir.
• Dump Station: A central RV sewage dump station is available.

The Quemahoning Family Recreation Area boasts numerous features and highlights that contribute to its popularity as a family-friendly outdoor destination.

• Quemahoning Reservoir Access: The crowning jewel is the 900-acre reservoir itself, offering vast opportunities for fishing (Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission rules apply), electric boating, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on clear, calm waters.
• Electric-Only Boating: This policy ensures a quieter, more peaceful boating experience on the reservoir, free from the noise of gas-powered motors.
• Variety of Accommodations: The option to choose between tent sites (some waterfront), RV sites with electric hookups, and rustic cabins caters to a wide range of camping preferences and comfort levels.
• Scenic Beauty: The area is renowned for its picturesque setting, with the reservoir surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and photography (as evidenced by a reviewer capturing the "buck moon").
• Day Use Options: Beyond camping, the recreation area welcomes day visitors for picnicking, swimming, fishing, and sports, making it a versatile destination.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: The presence of a playground, sports fields, and a designated swim beach, along with the "family recreation area" designation, emphasizes its suitability for all ages.
• On-Site Rentals: The Yak Shak provides convenient access to watercraft and bikes, eliminating the need for visitors to transport their own equipment.
• Managed by Summer's Best Two Weeks (SB2W): The long-term management by SB2W, a reputable organization, suggests a focus on structured programs and a well-maintained facility, although some recent reviews indicate management issues specific to trail maintenance and pet policies need addressing.
• Local Attractions Nearby: While immersed in nature, the park is a short drive from other regional attractions like the Flight 93 National Memorial, offering opportunities for historical and cultural exploration.

For reservations, inquiries, or current conditions, here is the contact information for Quemahoning Family Recreation Area:

• Address: Quemahoning Dam Rd, Hollsopple, PA 15935, USA
• Phone: (814) 233-9512
• Website: For bookings and the most up-to-date information on policies, rates, and availability, please visit the official website: www.quefamilyrec.com.

For us Pennsylvanians, the Quemahoning Family Recreation Area offers an incredibly appealing and accessible outdoor escape right in our own backyard. Its prime location on the Quemahoning Reservoir provides a unique opportunity for water-based recreation that many other campgrounds can't match, particularly with its electric-only boating policy ensuring a peaceful environment. Whether you're coming from Pittsburgh, Johnstown, or elsewhere in the Commonwealth, the drive is manageable, making it perfect for both weekend getaways and longer vacations without extensive travel.

The diverse accommodation options, from traditional tent sites to RV hookups and rustic cabins, cater to a wide range of preferences and comfort levels, ensuring that almost anyone can find their ideal spot. While recent concerns regarding trail maintenance and pet policies highlight areas for improvement, the core appeal of a beautiful lakeside setting, extensive recreational opportunities, and a generally relaxing atmosphere remains strong. It’s a place where families can bond, individuals can find serenity, and outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in their favorite activities. The Quemahoning Family Recreation Area truly embodies the spirit of Pennsylvania's outdoor recreational offerings, providing a fantastic local destination for creating cherished memories amidst the natural beauty of the Laurel Highlands.