RoundBottom hiker-biker Campground

- Great Allegheny Passage, Vanderbilt, PA 15486

Introduction / Overview

For dedicated hikers, cyclists, and all outdoor enthusiasts traversing the spectacular landscapes of the Commonwealth, the **RoundBottom Hiker-Biker Campground** represents a true gem along the legendary Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail. Nestled into a bend of the Youghiogheny River, this facility provides a critical and much-appreciated resting spot for those undertaking the multi-day journey along the GAP, offering a rustic yet amenity-conscious overnight stay.

Located at **Mile Marker 99.6** of the Great Allegheny Passage, RoundBottom is specifically designed for the trail user—meaning access is limited to those arriving on foot, by bike, or possibly by paddle craft from the river. This exclusion of motor vehicle access ensures a tranquil and remote atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. As one of the free, first-come, first-served hiker-biker campgrounds managed by the Regional Trail Corporation, it embodies the spirit of affordable adventure that the GAP Trail is famous for. Travelers in Pennsylvania value this kind of accessible, no-cost resource, which makes long-distance bikepacking and hiking financially feasible for many. The setting, tucked in a wide-open space along the "Yough," offers more than just a place to sleep; it’s an experience in classic Pennsylvania trailside camping.

Location and Accessibility

RoundBottom Hiker-Biker Campground is uniquely situated on the **Great Allegheny Passage Trail**, near the small Fayette County town of **Vanderbilt, PA 15486**. The physical address is noted as being directly on the trail, which is a key point for all prospective visitors: this site is truly trailside.

The specific location places it roughly 49 miles from Pittsburgh, making it a viable overnight stop on a three or four-day itinerary from the city, or a convenient resting point for those traveling from Cumberland, Maryland. Its designation as a "hiker-biker" campground is crucial—it means the only practical way to access the site is via the GAP Trail itself. There is no public vehicle access, ensuring a peaceful, secluded environment free from car traffic noise and conventional campground crowds. The facility is directly adjacent to the beautiful **Youghiogheny River**, with easy river access for fishing, birdwatching, or simple relaxation by the water's edge. A natural stream, **Slush Run**, also tumbles off the nearby hillside and winds through the area, adding to the picturesque setting. While technically located in the vicinity of Perryopolis, the campground is closest to Vanderbilt and the Connellsville section of the trail, placing it firmly within the Laurel Highlands' vast recreational network. Pennsylvania locals appreciate this kind of remote location that still remains on a well-maintained, famous trail.

Services Offered

RoundBottom Hiker-Biker Campground provides basic, essential services tailored for self-sufficient trail users. The philosophy is to offer necessary amenities without over-developing the natural site. Key services include:

• Free, First-Come, First-Served Camping: There is no fee for overnighting, and no reservations are required or accepted. This offers vital flexibility for trail users whose schedules may change due to weather or physical exertion.

• Three Adirondack-Style Shelters: The site features three wooden, three-sided lean-to shelters. Two of these are designed for parties of approximately six people, and one is a smaller, solo unit, offering protection from the elements, as grateful customers who endured thunderstorms can attest.

• Tent Camping Space: Beyond the shelters, there is ample open, grassy space for over 100 tents, ensuring that finding a spot is seldom a problem, even during peak season.

• Sanitation Facilities: A **composting toilet (or SST toilet)** is available on-site, providing a crucial and environmentally sound restroom facility.

• Cooking Facilities: Two fire rings and a pair of grills are provided, along with **free, pre-cut firewood** that is often available on-site, thanks to the stewardship of local trail organizations.

• Non-Potable Water Source: There is a well with a hand pump that provides non-potable water. **Important Note for PA Trail Users:** Campers must carry a reliable water filter, purification tablets, or be prepared to boil this water before consumption. Additionally, the Youghiogheny River is right next to the camp, providing a source for filtering, as mentioned by one helpful reviewer.

• Picnic Areas: Two covered picnic tables are available for meal preparation and enjoying a trailside rest.

Features / Highlights

The features of the RoundBottom Hiker-Biker Campground are centered on its serene natural environment and its dedication to the trail community:

• Seclusion and Natural Beauty: The campground is considered one of the most secluded and remote-feeling spots on the GAP Trail. It is surrounded by wooded hillsides and sits directly on a wide bend of the Youghiogheny River, offering a truly immersive Pennsylvania wilderness experience.

• Protection from Weather: The inclusion of the **Adirondack shelters** is a major highlight, offering a dry and secure place to sleep when rain or storms hit, providing peace of mind for self-supported travelers.

• River Access: The easy access to the Youghiogheny River offers not only a source for water (to be filtered) and washing but also secluded spots for quiet recreation like **fishing and birdwatching**.

• Comical Name: As noted by one customer, the name "RoundBottom" provides a bit of lighthearted fun and is a well-known marker along the GAP route, often becoming a memorable photo op for riders.

• No Fee/No Reservation Policy: The cost-free nature of the site, combined with the first-come, first-served policy, offers incredible freedom and flexibility that distinguishes it from commercial campgrounds. This feature makes multi-day trail trips on the GAP more accessible to all Pennsylvanians.

• Slush Run: The small stream, Slush Run, flows through the area, enhancing the soundscape and environment of the campground with the gentle noise of running water.

Contact Information

As a free, primitive, first-come, first-served facility, RoundBottom Hiker-Biker Campground does not have a dedicated on-site office or mailing address other than its location on the trail. For general information, trail conditions, or inquiries about the campground, the best contact is generally through the managing organizations of the trail, such as the Regional Trail Corporation or the Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy. The public phone number associated with the site is:

Address:

Primary Phone (Regional Trail Authority/General Inquiries):

Mobile Phone:

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

RoundBottom Hiker-Biker Campground is an essential and suitable resource for Pennsylvanians seeking to experience the acclaimed Great Allegheny Passage. For locals in Southwestern PA, it provides an authentic, high-quality **bikepacking** or **hiking** overnight experience that is both **accessible and free**. The unique combination of seclusion and convenience—being away from vehicular traffic yet directly on a world-class recreational trail—is highly valued by those looking to disconnect from the pressures of daily life. The campground's free status significantly lowers the barrier to entry for long-distance trail use, encouraging more Pennsylvania residents to explore the state's natural beauty and history along the Youghiogheny River corridor.

Whether you are a seasoned endurance cyclist completing the entire Pittsburgh-to-Cumberland route or a local taking on a weekend section, the rustic shelters, available firewood, and reliable sanitation facilities make for a dependable and comfortable night under the stars. The proximity to the river, the tranquil sound of Slush Run, and the remote forest setting provide the exact kind of restorative natural experience that Pennsylvania’s public lands are known for. RoundBottom is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a vital piece of the GAP trail infrastructure that allows local adventurers to embrace the trail lifestyle affordably and authentically.

RoundBottom hiker-biker Campground

Great Allegheny Passage, Vanderbilt, PA 15486, USA