Multigenerational Family Activities & Ohiopyle Itinerary
Calling families seeking multigenerational family activities in Ohiopyle! Our little mountain offers adventure for every member of your family, from the youngest explorers to the wisest grandparents! We’ve already got your vacation all laid out, you just have to gather the whole family (yes, even grandma and grandpa!) and head to Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania. This 3-day itinerary guarantees unforgettable moments, laughter, and memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Where to Stay
Ohiopyle, nestled in the picturesque Laurel Highlands, offers a range of lodging options to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re fans of the great outdoors or prefer a more comfortable retreat, there’s something for everyone.
If your family loves the outdoors as much as we do, Tall Oaks Campground is the perfect choice. It offers a tranquil and rustic experience with spacious tent sites as well as spots for RVs. The serene setting allows you to immerse yourselves in nature.
For a campground with a dash of excitement, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is a fantastic option. This family-friendly park offers a variety of activities that will engage the whole family, from mini-water parks to mini golf and even laser tag. It’s a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and fun-filled recreation.
If you prefer a more traditional accommodation, there are plenty of bed & breakfasts, cabins, and hotels in the nearby area. These provide a cozy retreat after a day of exploration and offer a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
Day 1: Nature’s Playground & Classroom 
On your way into Ohiopyle, make sure to stop at any of the several nearby national historical parks that illustrate the stories of the past. One option is to visit Fort Necessity National Battlefield, the site of young George Washington’s first military engagement and the battle that marks the beginning of the French and Indian War. Take advantage of the daily ranger programs offered at the park to learn about this fascinating period in history.
After a lesson in history, turn nature into both a classroom and a playground by exploring the natural wonders of the Laurel Highlands. Hike through the lush forests to discover enchanting waterfalls, unique flora, and diverse wildlife. Ohiopyle State Park alone offers an impressive 79 miles of trails suitable for all abilities, and some of the most awe-inspiring views are within easy reach from parking areas.
Day 2: Your Choice of Whitewater Adventure
The Youghiogheny River offers three rafting options that cater to different age and ability levels, ranging from Class II to Class IV whitewater. Tailor your adventure to suit your family’s preferences and create unforgettable memories together.
For families with children under 10, the rafting on the Middle Yough is the ideal choice. This 9-mile stretch provides scenic paddling with a few gentle splashes here and there. Disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other as you navigate the river’s twists and turns. Our guided trips on the Middle are suitable for children 5 and up, allowing them to fall in love with the natural world through fun outdoor activities.
If you have teenagers in the mix, the Middle Yough can still be enjoyable, but for an extra dose of adrenaline, the Lower Yough is the way to go. With plenty of big splashes and heart-racing drops, it’s the quintessential whitewater rafting experience. Choose from various trip formats based on your family’s preferences and age range.
If you want to keep the family together and have kids aged 10 and up, consider the fully guided or deluxe trip formats, where an expert guide accompanies every boat, reducing the risk of any spills and swims. Alternatively, splitting up for the day is always an option. Parents and teens can test their teamwork skills on a guide-escorted trip, while the grandparents enjoy a relaxing time on the Middle Yough with the younger kids. At the end of the day, gather around the campfire and share tales of your adventurous day.
Day 3: Relaxing Family Bike Ride
Round out your adventure with a gentle family bike ride on the Great Allegheny Passage. Head to our Ohiopyle Outfitter Store or Bike Shak in town to rent bikes of all sizes from our trusted outfitters and embark on a scenic journey along this flat, well-maintained bike trail.
The Great Allegheny Passage stretches from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland, offering a variety of routes to explore. Head southeast toward Confluence or northwest toward Connellsville, and enjoy glimpses of the Youghiogheny River, places to rest, and side hikes to further immerse yourselves in nature’s beauty.
Return the bikes whenever you’re done exploring, and don’t forget to grab a delicious lunch at Falls City Pub & Restaurant to fuel up for the journey home!
À La Carte Activities
Ohiopyle and the Laurel Highlands have so much to offer that it’s hard to squeeze everything into just 3 days. Here are some additional activities you can mix and match with our itinerary:
- Fly Fishing: Encourage learning and reignite old passions by booking a family fly fishing lesson. Immerse yourselves in the art of angling and create beautiful moments by the river.
- Stand-Up Paddle Boarding: Explore the river in a whole new way with guided and instructional SUP tours. Glide across the water, enjoying a serene and unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
- Middle Yough Craft Upgrade: If you have older kids and choose to paddle down the Middle Yough together as a family, you can always add on a ducky or recreational kayak for an extra adventure. Navigate the river’s gentle rapids and enjoy the thrill of paddling as a team.
- More Family Fun in the Laurel Highlands: There is plenty more to discover, including park programs, animal parks and more!
Wilderness Voyageurs can help you take advantage of all of the multigenerational family activities in Ohiopyle. With this carefully crafted 3-day plan filled with whitewater rafting, nature exploration, and plenty of family fun, it’s no wonder everyone will be shouting, “Best. Vacation. Ever!” So pack your bags, gather the whole family, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey that will create memories to last a lifetime in Ohiopyle.
