clair034

I just came back from a group camping trip composed of people to whom I am not related (read: don’t rely upon me for financial support or otherwise legally don't have to put up with me), and once again, I’m amazed at how we all managed not to kill each other.                              You know what I’m talking about here. Every trip, there’s always somebody who gets up super early and beats his (or, um, maybe her) chest, coughing and clearing their throats – and often yelling something like, “Yep, yep, it’s great to be alive!” – so loudly that everyone else has to get up, too.  No one ever really looks like this when camping. (istock)  There’s always that person who somehow manages not to be around when the disgusting greasy cooking thing needs to be cleaned, and there’s always someone who is so over the top when it comes to cheerfully (franti...

The Keystone State is one of the top in the country for fall foliage, and this time of year, the weather is usually pretty cooperative for camping. The views are spectacular from one end to the other, and there are so many things to do inside and out, it’s hard to know where to start. If the changing colors are your focus, though, here are some ideas. Just be sure to keep the camera battery charged, and check gocampingamerica.com for the RV parks and campgrounds near each stop. Southwest McConnell’s Mill State Park With the oft-photographed covered bridge in its midst, McConnell’s Mill, which sits 40 miles north of Pittsburgh on Rte 422 via I-79, is a big draw for those looking to take long walks around the picturesque seven miles of trails and a drive to the waterfalls, restored gristmill and Slippery Rock Creek. Pack a picnic, because there are multiple stops along the route through. If you fish or river raft, this is also a top-notch destination. More info  Ohiopyle State Park is a...