Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area

For those of us in Pennsylvania who cherish the call of the wild, especially when it's combined with a fantastic trail adventure, Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area in Smithton offers a truly authentic, no-frills experience. Nestled within the larger Cedar Creek Park and directly on the renowned Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail, this campground is a dedicated haven for hikers and bikers seeking a rustic overnight stay.

This isn't your typical commercial campground with resort-style amenities. Instead, the Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area provides a primitive, well-maintained space perfectly suited for those traversing the GAP trail or simply looking for a simple, natural escape. It's often referred to as the "Cedar Creek Hiker-Biker Campground" on the GAP trail, underscoring its primary purpose. Maintained by Westmoreland County, visitors consistently note its upkeep, often describing it as "Well maintained by the County."

The campground is designed with the trail user in mind, featuring Adirondack-style shelters and open grassy areas for tents. These shelters, often a pair, provide basic protection from the elements and a place to rest. The open space allows for flexible tent pitching, catering to individual and small group needs. Importantly, the sites are situated to "overlook the Youghiogheny River," offering scenic views that enhance the natural immersion. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the river and the fresh air of the Pennsylvania outdoors!

While some past reviews might touch on experiences at other parts of Cedar Creek Park or misunderstandings about RV spots, it's crucial to understand that the Scout Camping Area (or Trekker Campground, as it's sometimes called) is specifically for "families or individuals that are traveling on the Great Allegheny Passage or Youghiogheny River that wish to camp overnight; no other camping is permitted!" This focus ensures that the campground serves its intended purpose as a vital rest stop for those actively engaged in trail or river activities.

This focused approach contributes to a specific kind of outdoor experience: one that prioritizes the journey and the natural surroundings. While you won't find extensive hookups or elaborate facilities, you will find a peaceful and practical spot to recharge. The sense of community among fellow trail users and the overall commitment to maintaining the park by Westmoreland County ensures a reliable and welcoming environment. If you're a Pennsylvanian seeking a true hiker-biker friendly stop on the GAP, where simplicity and nature are key, the Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area is an excellent choice.

The Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area is strategically located within the larger Cedar Creek Park in Smithton, PA, with a general address of 56GH+RP, Smithton, PA 15479, USA. Its precise location is specifically along the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail and the Youghiogheny River, which runs along the park's eastern border. This prime position makes it incredibly accessible for trail users and those exploring the scenic beauty of Westmoreland County.

The campground is often described as being at the "far eastern end of Cedar Creek Park," situated directly where the GAP trail passes through. This means that if you are cycling or hiking the GAP, you can ride directly to the campsite. For those arriving by car, the larger Cedar Creek Park offers "ample parking." If you plan to leave your car overnight while traveling the Great Allegheny Passage, you must register your vehicle at the registration kiosk where the main park road crosses the trail. This alerts park staff about your vehicle's presence.

However, it's important to note a crucial accessibility detail: park gates are locked at night, typically around dusk (e.g., 9:30 PM), and there is "no way to get in or out after this time." Park rangers often "come up to each campsite to make sure you are okay before locking the gates." This ensures security but requires campers to plan their arrival times accordingly.

Travel times from major Pennsylvania cities to Cedar Creek Park are manageable:

• From Pittsburgh: Approximately 45-60 minutes, making it a very convenient drive for a quick escape.
• From Harrisburg: Roughly 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours.
• From Philadelphia: Approximately 5 hours 30 minutes to 6 hours.

This proximity allows many Pennsylvanians to easily reach the park for a weekend trip or a longer biking adventure. The campground's location by the Youghiogheny River also provides river access for paddlers and anglers, further enhancing its appeal as a recreational hub within a beautiful natural setting.

The Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area offers fundamental services tailored for primitive camping, specifically catering to users of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail and the Youghiogheny River. These services prioritize basic needs while maintaining a natural, low-impact environment.

• Campsites: The campground provides several campsites. These include:
  • Adirondack-style Shelters: At least two Adirondack-style lean-to shelters are available. These open-sided structures offer basic overhead protection from rain and elements. Some even feature a "stone chimney for heat in the winter," indicating thoughtful design for colder weather.
  • Open Grassy Space for Tents: There are designated "open grassy space for tents," allowing campers to pitch their own tents on level ground. Some descriptions mention "a few raised lean-to cabins" or "5-6 raised tent sites," providing options to stay off the ground.
  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for cooking and campfires (assuming local fire regulations permit).
• Potable Water: Potable drinking water is available on-site, a significant amenity for a primitive campground. This is a crucial service for hikers and bikers who may not carry large water supplies.
• Restrooms: While not specified as flush toilets, "restrooms" are mentioned as available at the park. Given the primitive nature, these are likely pit toilets or vault toilets, which are typically well-maintained by the county.
• Trash Disposal: Westmoreland County, which maintains the park, is known for keeping the area clean, suggesting that trash disposal facilities are available to help maintain the "no trash" environment often noted on the GAP trail.
• Security/Park Ranger Presence: Park rangers often check on campsites before the gates are locked at night, providing a sense of security and ensuring compliance with park rules.
• River Access: Located directly on the Youghiogheny River, the site offers access for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
• No Showers: As a primitive campsite, shower facilities are not available. Campers should plan accordingly.
• No RV Hookups: This is strictly a tent and shelter camping area for trail users; there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs at this specific camping area.

Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a cherished spot for Pennsylvania locals, particularly those who embrace self-sufficient outdoor adventures.

• Direct Access to the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP): This is the paramount highlight. The campground is literally on the GAP trail, making it an incredibly convenient and strategic overnight stop for thru-hikers, section hikers, and long-distance cyclists. You can ride or walk right into camp.
• Authentic Primitive Camping Experience: It offers a genuine back-to-basics camping environment. This appeals to those who prefer simplicity and a deeper connection with nature over crowded, amenity-rich commercial campgrounds.
• Adirondack-Style Shelters: The presence of these open-front lean-tos provides an alternative to tent camping, offering communal shelter and protection from the elements. The mention of a "stone chimney for heat" in some shelters suggests thoughtful design for comfort.
• Potable Water Availability: For a primitive site, having a reliable source of potable drinking water is a significant advantage, reducing the need for extensive water carrying or filtering.
• Riverside Location with Scenic Views: Situated along the Youghiogheny River, the campsites "overlook the Youghiogheny River," providing serene views and the calming sounds of flowing water. It also offers direct river access for fishing or paddling.
• Well-Maintained by Westmoreland County: Consistent reviews praise the county for keeping the park and campground "well maintained," ensuring a clean and pleasant environment despite its rustic nature.
• Designated for Trail Users: By explicitly catering to "travelers on the Great Allegheny Passage or Youghiogheny River," the campground fosters a sense of community among like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
• Security from Park Rangers: The presence of park rangers who check on sites before locking the gates at night provides an added layer of safety and peace of mind for campers.
• Free Camping for Trail Users: As part of the Westmoreland County Parks system, and as noted on GAP trail resources, camping here is often "free for trail users only," making it a highly economical option.
• Two-Night Maximum Stay: This rule (as per some GAP resources) ensures turnover and accessibility for more trail users, preventing long-term occupancy and keeping the sites available.

As a primitive campground primarily serving users of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) trail, Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area does not typically offer traditional commercial "promotions" or complex special offers like discounts or package deals. Instead, its primary "special offer" is its fundamental service: providing a free, accessible, and well-maintained overnight stop for those actively engaged in trail or river activities.

• Free Camping for Trail Users: According to official information from the Great Allegheny Passage, the "Trekker Campground" (which refers to the camping area at Cedar Creek Park) is "free for trail users only." This is a significant benefit for long-distance hikers and bikers, eliminating the cost of accommodation for a night.
• Two Night Maximum Stay: While not a promotion in the typical sense, the "two night maximum stay" rule ensures that the sites remain available for a wider range of trail users, reflecting its purpose as a transient rest stop rather than a long-term vacation spot.

It's crucial for prospective campers to understand these guidelines, as they define the nature of the camping experience here. The value proposition of Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area lies in its convenience, its integration with a world-class trail system, and its commitment to offering a basic, accessible, and cost-free (for trail users) overnight solution in a beautiful natural setting. There are no "fees" in the traditional sense, but adherence to park rules and the spirit of responsible trail use is expected.

Any specific eligibility criteria (e.g., proof of trail use, although generally on an honor system) or updates to these policies should be verified directly with Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation or the Great Allegheny Passage official resources before planning your trip.

For specific inquiries regarding the Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area, its current status, or the rules for camping, it's best to contact the managing authority of Cedar Creek Park, which is part of the Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation system.

Address: 56GH+RP, Smithton, PA 15479, USA (This is a general Google Maps Plus Code for the location within the park. For navigation, look for Cedar Creek Park or access points to the GAP trail in Smithton).

Phone: Please note, the phone numbers (412) 257-3011 and +1 412-257-3011 provided in the prompt likely correspond to the Montour Trail Council (a different trail) and are not directly for Cedar Creek Park or the Westmoreland County Parks system.

For the most accurate contact information related to Cedar Creek Park and its camping area, it is recommended to:

• Contact Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation: The official phone number for Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation is (724) 830-3950. They manage Cedar Creek Park and can provide details on the camping area.
• Visit the Great Allegheny Passage Website: The GAP trail's official website (gaptrail.org) provides detailed information on trailside amenities, including the Cedar Creek Hiker-Biker Campground, its rules, and facilities.
• Check Westmoreland County Parks Website: The official Westmoreland County website (westmorelandcountypa.gov/parks) often has information on park facilities and regulations.

Since this is a primitive, first-come, first-served campground, direct reservations are typically not made via phone. However, contacting the county parks department can help confirm current conditions or any changes to rules.

For us Pennsylvanians, Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area represents a fantastic local resource for an authentic outdoor experience. We appreciate its dedication to serving hikers and bikers on the Great Allegheny Passage, making it an incredibly convenient and free overnight stop on this world-class trail. This focus ensures a shared camaraderie among fellow trail enthusiasts and a sense of purpose to the camping area.

The fact that it’s "Well maintained by the County" is a huge plus for us – we value clean, accessible public spaces, even when they're primitive. The simple amenities, like the Adirondack shelters and potable water, provide just enough comfort without detracting from the rustic feel that many of us seek. Waking up to the sounds and sights of the Youghiogheny River right outside our tent or shelter offers a peaceful immersion in nature that feels miles away from the everyday, yet is surprisingly accessible from our homes.

Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a crucial part of the GAP adventure, offering a reliable, beautiful, and cost-effective way to experience the stunning natural beauty of Western Pennsylvania. It’s a true local gem that embodies the spirit of our state’s outdoor heritage.

Cedar Creek Park Scout Camping Area

56GH+RP, Smithton, PA 15479, USA