Waterfalls just make everything magical. And, Pittsburghers are pretty lucky to live not exceedingly far from several amazing waterfalls, with a bonus of a natural water slide, in a sprawling state park that offers rustic and comfy camping. Now is a great time to go camping at this magical waterfall campground near Pittsburgh.
Snuggled along the Youghiogheny River, Ohiopyle State Park provides the perfect setting for an outdoor adventure. Less than an hour and a half from downtown Pittsburgh, the popular state park spans 20,500 acres.
Two of the highlights of Ohiopyle State Park are, undoubtedly, its waterfalls. Water glides down 30 feet from Cucumber Falls, promising spectacular views from above and at the base.
Slip behind Cucumber Falls for a unique view of the waterfall and to, maybe, feel the cool mist of the water spray down on you. If you visit Cucumber Falls without camping out, park near the Cucumber Falls Trail where you'll be steps away from the top view of the waterfall. Descend the nearby stairs for a spectacular view from the base of Cucumber Falls.
After visiting Cucumber Falls, hike the less than two mile Meadow Run Trail to Ohiopyle Falls. Less than half the height of Cucumber Falls, the 15 foot tall waterfall is spectacular nonetheless. The observation deck above the falls offers perfect views of the waterfall.
Ohiopyle Falls tend to be most picturesque when the Youghiogheny River isn't too high, although it is worth a visit no matter what time of the year you go.
Jonathan Run Falls also calls Ohiopyle State Park home and it's smaller than both Cucumber Falls and Ohiopyle Falls. Reaching the falls requires some exertion as you hike the Jonathan Run Trail to this secluded, at least compared to Cucumber and Ohiopyle Falls, waterfall.
Sure, you can get wet from the mist of the waterfalls in Ohiopyle State Park but why settle? After drinking in the undeniable beauty of the waterfalls, head to the Meadow Run Natural Water Slide where cool water and a unique adventure await.
Zip down the natural water slide as the water gushes downward. Be forewarned, however, that some visitors have complained about the bumps and bruises that they suffered from hitting the rocks of the natural slide.
The Youghiogheny River provides the perfect backdrop for whitewater rafting, especially for those who want an adrenaline rush.
You'll find so much to do at Ohiopyle State Park that you'll want to spend a few – if not more – days here. Picnic by one of the waterfalls. Hike several of the trails. (Ohiopyle's trails span 79 miles.) Go rock climbing or mountain biking, the latter of which offers nearly 12 miles of trails.
The best way to end a perfect day, of course, is to enjoy an evening under the stars. Pitch a tent and rough it at Ohiopyle State Park or rent a comfortable cottage that features electricity, electrical outlets, heat, and bunk beds at Kentuck Campground inside the state park.
Or, add some style to your waterfall campground adventure by renting a yurt. Yurts provide all the comforts of home: Stove, microwave, fridge, electrical outlets, heat, and a picnic table. Guests sleep in bunk beds.
Create magical memories at this waterfall campground near Pittsburgh then, keep that momentum going by checking off the activities on the ultimate outdoor bucket list for Pittsburghers.
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