Outflow Camping
4.33267 reviews1579 Mae West Road
Outflow Camping
$16.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$48.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$155.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by site types. Hike-to sites cost $16 per person; standard electric hookup sites range from $35-$48 nightly; tent-only non-electric sites are $25 nightly; group walk-to sites cost between $55 and $155 depending on size. Shelter electric sites start at $60.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Youghiogheny River Lake, Outflow Camping beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the best of the Laurel Highlands. Here, where crystal-clear waters meet forested hillsides, adventurers find their perfect basecamp for exploring miles of hiking trails, world-class biking along the famous Great Allegheny Passage, and some of Pennsylvania's finest fishing waters. Known for its meticulously maintained facilities and direct access to the Youghiogheny River, this hidden gem offers the perfect blend of wilderness adventure and modern comfort.
Outflow Camping provides a mix of camping options, catering to RVs, tent campers, group camping, and hikers/bikers.
Historical SignificanceThe waters and woods surrounding Outflow Camping have witnessed centuries of American history. Just a short drive away stands Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural masterpiece, Fallingwater, where modern design meets ancient forest. The nearby Ohiopyle State Park has earned international acclaim as the venue for national kayaking championships, where elite paddlers test their skills against the Youghiogheny's legendary rapids. This region, where industry once thrived, has transformed into Pennsylvania's premier outdoor playground while honoring its rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Outflow Camping in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with wildflowers and perfect hiking temperatures, while summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and gentle afternoon rain showers that refresh the forest. Fall transforms the surrounding hardwoods into a blazing tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a serene wonderland for the hardy souls who venture out. Most visitors find the sweet spot between late spring and early fall, when moderate temperatures and long days create ideal conditions for every outdoor pursuit.
ElevationElevation data unavailable.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering cathedral groves of beech, sugar maple, and white ash create a living canopy above the campground, their branches intertwining with yellow poplar and basswood to form nature's own architecture. These steep, forested slopes plunge dramatically toward the sparkling waters of the river below, creating breathtaking vistas at every turn. Early morning mist often shrouds the dam, while evening light transforms the water into liquid gold. Wildlife thrives here—white-tailed deer browse at dawn, black bears forage for berries, wild turkeys strut through clearings, and the patient angler is rewarded with fighting trout from the cool river waters.
Geological RegionStraddling the historic Mason-Dixon Line, Outflow Camping sits within the ancient Laurel Highlands, where millions of years of geological forces have carved narrow valleys between high, rounded peaks. These mountains, clothed in a rich tapestry of northern hardwoods—beech, sugar maple, white ash, yellow poplar, and basswood—create a landscape of stunning contrasts. Steep slopes drop into hidden hollows, while ridgetops offer panoramic views of this timeless Pennsylvania wilderness. The dramatic topography not only provides breathtaking scenery but also creates diverse microclimates that support an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible walkways, an accessible playground, and accessible drinking water are provided. Accessible parking is available near some campsites. The campground also features an accessible fishing dock.
Sites SizeMany sites are spacious and level. For example, site 42 can accommodate a 35' 5th wheel and a long bed truck. One camper appreciated that "campsites are level and easy to get into."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some campers noted close site proximity, while others appreciated the vegetation providing slight privacy. "Bushes gave a bit of privacy in the outdoor space," noted one camper. Yet another remarked, "Sites are a little too close with not enough privacy."
Total Campsites86 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 42 is praised for privacy due to bushes separating it from neighbors. Sites close to the river or GAP trail are recommended for better views and quiet.
Best CampsitesCampsites near the river or GAP trail are highly rated. Popular sites include 028 and 036.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available anytime after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during any 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of two tents or one tent and one trailer allowed per site.
Groups
Group walk-to sites accommodate up to 80 people, with rates varying based on group size ($55 to $155).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, including MAPL, LOCU, SPRU, SYCA, and group areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 to October 6 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up sites are available; all sites are 100% reservable.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee if canceled late (within 24 hours of check-in).
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Outflow Camping offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, boating, swimming, and the opportunity for wildlife viewing. The location provides direct access to the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail and the Youghiogheny River for water-based activities.
Hiking
The campground offers direct access to the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail, which is highly praised by users for its scenic beauty and ease of access. "The bike trail is just outside of the campground," remarked one reviewer. Hiking trails, often combined with biking, are considered ideal for exploring the area.Fishing
Fishing is highly praised, particularly for trout fishing in the outflow area. One camper noted, "Great trout fishing," adding that the area is stocked from April to September. Another stated, "Fishing area below dam water outlet is popular."Swimming
A swimming beach is located near the campground, offering a cool respite during hot days. "The beach was mostly a no-go due to chilly weather, but it's a nice facility," mentioned one camper.Biking
The campground is adjacent to the Great Allegheny Passage bike trail, allowing for long-distance biking. Reviewers highlighted easy trail access, stating, "The GAP rail trail is a biker’s dream spot."Boating
Boating opportunities include kayaking, rafting, and canoeing on the nearby Youghiogheny River. "Boating - open hp, kayaking, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, white water rafting. Definitely worth a long weekend!" shared one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife common to the area includes deer, bear, turkey, and squirrel. "We saw a bald eagle fly over the water sitting at my campsite," noted a camper.Beach activities
The nearby Youghiogheny River Lake offers beach activities such as swimming and sunbathing. "Hiked up to the lake, behind the dam with the grandkids to swim," shared one reviewer.Winter Activities
No explicit details are available, but the campground closes in early October, limiting winter activities.Water Sports
Includes kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and rafting. "The Youghiogheny River provides excellent rafting and kayaking opportunities," said one camper.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be contained within fire rings provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSharp turns on Mae West Road may pose challenges for large vehicles. Bicycle thefts have been reported. Wildlife like bears and deer are present.
Active alertsA siren warning from the nearby hydropower plant can be heard. Campground hosts sometimes unavailable.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services include the Confluence Volunteer Fire Department (about 5-minute drive) and Somerset Hospital (approximately 35-minute drive).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 6 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but one camper mentioned overflow issues with dumpsters caused by non-campers. Another user described trash facilities as well-maintained, stating, "The campground is clean, quiet, and on GAP trail."
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Youghiogheny River and Youghiogheny River Lake, offering fishing, kayaking, and scenic views.
Common complaintsSites are close together with limited privacy. Tent sites are placed on gravel, making stake placement difficult. Bathrooms sometimes lack cleanliness.
HostCamp hosts are described as helpful and attentive. Some guests report limited availability of hosts.
Campground Map
1579 Mae West Road
Driving directionsRoute 281 South from points north: continue south through Confluence and over the Casselman & Youghiogheny Rivers. Make an immediate left into the campground. Route 281 North from Route 40: continue north 7 miles past the Youghiogheny River Lake entrance. Make next right into the campground. Route 523 North from Route 40: continue north 7 miles to Confluence. Turn left onto Route 281 South, over the Casselman & Youghiogheny Rivers. Make next left into the campground.
The road to the campground, 281/Mae West Road, includes sharp turns with steep uphill and downhill sections. Users have described it as requiring careful attention when towing trailers, though manageable during low traffic conditions.Nearby places
Confluence (0 miles, 5-minute drive), Ohiopyle State Park (11 miles, approximately 20-minute drive), Uniontown (23 miles, approximately 35-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, firewood, and camping essentials are available at Mitch’s Fuel & Food in Confluence (5-minute drive). Larger supplies can be found in Uniontown (35-minute drive).
Camper Reviews
4.3
267 reviews
Outflow Camping is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, accessibility to recreational activities, and proximity to local attractions. However, some campers raised concerns about site privacy, proximity, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 267 reviews
What Campers Love
Cleanliness of facilities, proximity to the Great Allegheny Passage trail, friendly camp hosts, and the availability of activities like fishing, biking, and kayaking are frequently praised.
Based on 267 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include close site proximity, site flooding, and occasional maintenance issues like electrical problems. Some reviewers were frustrated with the reservation system.
Based on 267 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing all supplies due to limited nearby stores, locking up bikes to prevent theft, and opting for sites away from the road for quieter stays. "Bring all supplies you need as...
Based on 267 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are the most popular due to the campground's accessibility and recreational options. Rainy weather was noted during some stays, but overall, summer received the highest praise.
Based on 267 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Clean, quiet, and close to G.A.P. Bike trail." "Great location for bikers and boaters." "Very nice clean quiet place to camp." "The camp hosts were wonderful and kept a very clean campground."
Based on 267 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 55 received complaints about electrical problems, with users stating, "Electrical service on site 55 has been screwed up for several years." Site 42 was praised for its size and privacy.
Based on 267 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible walkways and facilities are appreciated. "Accessible fishing dock and drinking water facilities," noted one camper.
Based on 267 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but there were complaints about off-leash dogs and waste management. "Dogs urinating around campsites and feces being left in places," mentioned one camper.
Based on 267 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025