Outflow Camping

About

Outflow Camping is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground located at the outflow of Youghiogheny River Lake, where the dam releases cold water into the river below. The campground sits in the Laurel Highlands region of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, near the small town of Confluence. Its proximity to the Great Allegheny Passage trail makes it popular with cyclists riding between Pittsburgh and Cumberland, Maryland. The campground offers 63 sites across several categories: standard electric and non-electric sites for RVs and trailers, tent-only sites, walk-to group camping areas, and dedicated hiker-biker spots with hammock stations. Facilities include flush toilets, hot showers, potable water, and a dump station. An amphitheater and children's playground add to the family-friendly amenities. The outflow area below the dam is renowned for trout fishing and is stocked by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission from April through September. Youghiogheny River Lake itself offers 16 miles of water for powerboating and water skiing. Nearby Ohiopyle State Park provides whitewater rafting and kayaking on the lower Youghiogheny River.

Directions

From points north via Route 281 South: continue south through Confluence and over the Casselman and Youghiogheny Rivers, then make an immediate left into the campground. From Route 40 via Route 281 North: continue north 7 miles past the Youghiogheny River Lake entrance, then turn right into the campground. From Route 40 via Route 523 North: continue north 7 miles to Confluence, turn left onto Route 281 South, cross the rivers, and turn left into the campground.