You do not need to travel to the Rockies or tackle an all-day mountain climb to stand at the highest point in Pennsylvania.
Hidden among the forests and ridges of Somerset County, Mount Davis rises 3,213 feet above sea level, making it the official highest point in the Commonwealth. The summit sits within Forbes State Forest and is surrounded by the 581-acre Mount Davis Natural Area. Visitors can reach the high-point area by vehicle, explore hiking trails through the surrounding forest, and climb an observation tower for panoramic views across southwestern Pennsylvania.
For RV travelers exploring the Laurel Highlands, Mount Davis makes an excellent addition to a weekend or multi-day road trip. It offers a combination of scenery, hiking, high-point history, and quiet mountain landscapes without requiring a technical climb.
This guide covers what makes Mount Davis special, how to visit, what to expect at the observation tower, hiking opportunities, the best seasons to go, nearby attractions, and how to plan RV camping near Mount Davis, PA.
Where Is Mount Davis?
Mount Davis is located in southern Somerset County within Forbes State Forest, one of Pennsylvania’s state forest districts stretching across portions of Somerset, Fayette, and Westmoreland counties.
Forbes State Forest contains nearly 59,000 acres spread across 15 separate tracts in the Laurel Highlands. Mount Davis is one of the forest’s best-known natural features.
The summit lies in the Mount Davis Natural Area, a protected 581-acre landscape surrounding Pennsylvania’s highest point.
Unlike many state high points, Mount Davis does not require a long wilderness expedition. Pennsylvania DCNR notes that the high-point area is accessible by vehicle, making it a practical stop for families, casual sightseers, highpointers, and RV travelers.
For official information about the area, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Mount Davis Natural Area and Forbes State Forest
How High Is Mount Davis?
Mount Davis reaches an elevation of 3,213 feet above sea level, officially making it the highest point in Pennsylvania.
That number may sound modest compared with mountains in the western United States, but Mount Davis represents the highest elevation within the Commonwealth and is an established destination for people who enjoy visiting state high points.
Pennsylvania DCNR even notes that vehicles with license plates from around the country regularly appear at the summit because some travelers make it a goal to visit the highest point in all 50 states.
For RV road trippers, that makes Mount Davis an easy landmark to add to a state-highpoint checklist.
What Is the Mount Davis Natural Area?
The summit is surrounded by the Mount Davis Natural Area, a 581-acre protected portion of Forbes State Forest.
Natural areas in Pennsylvania’s state forest system are set aside to preserve distinctive biological, geological, scenic, or historical features while allowing nature to remain the primary influence on the landscape.
Around Mount Davis, visitors may notice unusual environmental features caused by the high elevation and exposed mountain conditions.
Pennsylvania DCNR highlights:
- Trees shaped and deformed by strong winds
- Effects of winter ice storms
- Small concentric stone rings created by localized frost heaving
- High-elevation forest landscapes
- Trails connecting the summit to lower areas
- Long-distance views from the observation tower
These details make Mount Davis more than a place to take a quick summit photo.
Slow down and explore the area around the high point to see how elevation, weather, geology, and forest ecology have shaped the landscape.
Can You Drive to the Top of Mount Davis?
Yes.
One of the biggest advantages of Mount Davis is its accessibility.
Pennsylvania DCNR states that the high point is accessible by vehicle, with interpretive signs and the observation tower located in the summit area.
That makes Mount Davis particularly appealing for:
- Families
- Older travelers
- Casual sightseers
- Highpoint collectors
- Travelers with limited hiking time
- RV vacationers looking for an easy day trip
You do not need to complete a strenuous mountain hike simply to reach Pennsylvania’s highest point.
However, RV travelers may still find it easier to leave a motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer at the campground and explore Mount Davis in a smaller tow vehicle.
Mountain and forest roads can be more comfortable to navigate without your entire RV setup, and a smaller vehicle gives you more flexibility for scenic stops and nearby attractions.
Climb the Mount Davis Observation Tower
The observation tower is one of the biggest highlights of a Mount Davis visit.
Located near Pennsylvania’s high point, the tower provides a 360-degree view across the surrounding landscape.
Because the summit itself is heavily forested and relatively broad, the tower provides a much more expansive perspective than you would get standing at ground level.
On clear days, visitors can look across the ridges and valleys of southwestern Pennsylvania.
The experience is especially worthwhile during fall, when the forest canopy begins changing from summer green to shades of yellow, orange, and red.
If heights are not your thing, you can still enjoy the summit area, interpretive signs, forest, and trails without climbing the tower.
Is Mount Davis a Difficult Hike?
Reaching the official high point does not require a major hike because vehicle access is available.
However, hikers have several options for exploring the surrounding natural area.
Pennsylvania DCNR notes that trails connect the Mount Davis State Forest Picnic Area with the high point and continue into lower portions of the natural area.
This allows visitors to choose their own level of activity.
You can:
- Drive close to the summit
- Take a short walk around the high point
- Explore nearby forest trails
- Begin from the picnic area and hike toward the summit
- Combine multiple trails for a longer outing
If your main goal is simply to say you stood at Pennsylvania’s highest point, the visit can be relatively easy.
If you want to turn the trip into a more active outdoor day, spend extra time hiking through Forbes State Forest.
Visit the Mount Davis Picnic Area
A state forest picnic area is located roughly one mile from Mount Davis along Mount Davis Road.
It can be a useful stop before or after exploring the summit.
Pack lunch at your RV before leaving the campground and make a picnic part of the day.
A simple Mount Davis outing might look like:
Morning: Drive toward Mount Davis.
Late morning: Explore the summit and observation tower.
Midday: Stop at the picnic area for lunch.
Afternoon: Take a forest hike or explore another Somerset County attraction.
Evening: Return to your RV campground.
That kind of relaxed schedule works especially well for travelers who do not want every vacation day to revolve around major ticketed attractions.
What Is the Weather Like at Mount Davis?
Do not assume the weather at your campground will be exactly the same at Pennsylvania’s highest point.
Elevation makes a difference.
Pennsylvania DCNR describes weather as an especially important factor at Mount Davis and notes that temperatures in the area have ranged from approximately -30°F to 95°F.
Frost has been observed during every month of the year, and winter snow depths can reach around four feet.
That does not mean you should expect freezing weather during every summer visit.
It does mean you should prepare for conditions that may be cooler, windier, or more changeable than locations at lower elevations.
Before leaving your RV:
- Check the forecast
- Bring an extra layer
- Pack rain protection
- Carry water
- Wear suitable footwear
- Avoid assuming summer automatically means hot summit temperatures
A lightweight jacket in the vehicle can be useful even during warmer months.
Best Time to Visit Mount Davis
Mount Davis offers a different experience throughout the year, but spring through fall generally provides the easiest conditions for RV travelers.
Spring
Spring brings fresh forest growth and cooler hiking temperatures.
Trails may be muddy after rain or snowmelt, so sturdy footwear is helpful.
Late spring can be a good choice if you want a quieter trip before summer vacation season gets underway.
Summer
Summer offers long daylight hours and makes it easy to combine Mount Davis with another attraction on the same day.
The higher elevation may also provide a refreshing contrast to warmer temperatures elsewhere in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Pack sunscreen, water, and a light layer.
Fall
Fall is arguably the most scenic season to visit.
The elevated views and surrounding forest make Mount Davis a natural destination for autumn road trips.
If you’re planning a foliage getaway, combine Mount Davis with other scenic routes throughout the Laurel Highlands.
Explore Scenic Drives in the Laurel Highlands
Because fall weekends can be popular throughout the region, reserving your RV site in advance is a good idea.
Winter
Mount Davis can receive substantial snow and severe winter conditions.
Pennsylvania DCNR reports that snow depths can reach four feet in mid-winter, while temperatures at the high elevation can become extremely cold.
Winter visitors should check forest-road and weather conditions carefully before traveling.
For most casual RV travelers, warmer months will provide an easier Mount Davis experience.
Is Mount Davis Good for Families?
Yes, especially because reaching the high point does not require a strenuous climb.
Families can customize the visit based on children’s ages and energy levels.
A family visit might include:
- Driving to the summit area
- Finding the highest-point marker
- Reading the interpretive signs
- Climbing the observation tower
- Taking a short forest walk
- Having a picnic
- Looking for wildlife
- Talking about state geography
It is also a good opportunity to introduce children to the idea of state highpoints.
Some families even turn highpoint visits into a long-term road-trip goal, checking off different states over time.
After exploring Mount Davis, families can return to Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort for swimming, mini golf, playground time, sports, and other campground activities.
Explore Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort Amenities
Is Mount Davis Worth Visiting If You Are Not a Hiker?
Absolutely.
Mount Davis is unusual because its significance does not depend on completing a difficult hiking route.
You can enjoy the destination simply because:
- It is the highest point in Pennsylvania
- The summit can be reached by vehicle
- The observation tower provides panoramic views
- The forest environment is scenic
- The area offers interesting natural features
- It works well as part of a scenic road trip
If you enjoy hiking, there are trails to explore.
If you prefer sightseeing, photography, picnicking, or checking geographic landmarks off your list, Mount Davis still works.
That flexibility makes it particularly useful for RV groups where not everyone wants the same level of physical activity.
Can You RV Camp at Mount Davis?
Mount Davis is located within Forbes State Forest rather than a developed RV resort.
The Mount Davis Natural Area is protected for its natural features, and motorized vehicle access is limited to designated roads.
For travelers who want full hookups, resort amenities, and a comfortable place to leave the RV while exploring the Laurel Highlands, establishing a campground home base elsewhere is often the better choice.
Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort in Champion provides more than 200 wooded and spacious RV sites, with full hookups available throughout the RV camping area.
Set up your RV once, then use a tow vehicle or passenger vehicle for Mount Davis and other mountain day trips.
Why Use Pittsburgh Roaring Run as a Laurel Highlands Home Base?
RV trips become much easier when you do not have to move your rig every day.
At Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort, guests can establish one campsite and use it as a base for exploring attractions throughout the Laurel Highlands.
The resort offers:
- More than 200 RV sites
- Full hookups
- Wooded and spacious sites
- Picnic tables
- Fire rings
- Big-rig-friendly accommodations
- Pet-friendly grounds
- Swimming pool
- Playground
- Mini golf
- Sports courts
- Bathhouses
- Country store
The resort is located at 194 Tannery Road in Champion, Pennsylvania.
That puts RV travelers in a strong position for exploring multiple regional attractions rather than choosing a campground based on one single destination.
View Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Camping Options
Things to Do Near Mount Davis
Mount Davis does not have to be your only stop.
A multi-day Laurel Highlands RV vacation gives you access to mountain scenery, state parks, historic sites, architecture, and outdoor recreation.
Explore Forbes State Forest
Mount Davis itself is part of Forbes State Forest, so spend additional time exploring the forest district if outdoor recreation is your priority.
Forbes State Forest covers almost 59,000 acres across Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland counties.
Activities throughout the forest district vary by area and can include hiking, wildlife observation, hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing, and other outdoor recreation.
Visit Ohiopyle State Park
Ohiopyle is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the Laurel Highlands.
The park is known for:
- Waterfalls
- Whitewater rafting
- Hiking
- Biking
- The Youghiogheny River
- Scenic overlooks
- The Great Allegheny Passage
Mount Davis and Ohiopyle provide two different types of outdoor experience.
One is centered on elevation, forest, and panoramic views. The other revolves around rivers, waterfalls, and recreation.
Tour Fallingwater
Architecture lovers can add Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater to the same RV trip.
The home is built over Bear Run and is one of the best-known architectural destinations in Pennsylvania.
Read the RV Camping Near Fallingwater Guide
Explore Laurel Caverns State Park
Laurel Caverns became Pennsylvania’s 125th state park and first underground state park in 2026.
A Mount Davis and Laurel Caverns combination gives travelers two different ways to explore Pennsylvania geology: one at the Commonwealth’s highest point and one underground.
Visit Fort Necessity National Battlefield
History travelers can also add Fort Necessity National Battlefield near Farmington.
The site preserves the landscape associated with George Washington’s first military engagement and only surrender.
This makes it easy to create a trip combining natural landmarks and American history.
A Sample Two-Day Mount Davis RV Trip
Mount Davis fits comfortably into a weekend.
Day 1: Arrive and Relax
Check into Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort and get your site set up.
Spend the afternoon enjoying the campground rather than immediately heading back onto the road.
Depending on the season, you might:
- Swim
- Play mini golf
- Walk around the property
- Visit the playground
- Relax outside your RV
- Cook dinner
- Enjoy a campfire
Prepare what you need for Mount Davis before going to bed.
Check the forecast, charge your phone, download your route, and pack hiking shoes.
View Pittsburgh Roaring Run Amenities
Day 2: Pennsylvania’s Highest Point
Start in the morning and drive toward Mount Davis.
Once you arrive:
- Explore the high-point area.
- Read the interpretive signs.
- Climb the observation tower if conditions allow.
- Spend time walking nearby trails.
- Stop at the picnic area for lunch.
If you still have time and energy, continue to another Somerset County or Laurel Highlands attraction before returning to your campsite.
A Sample Three-Day Laurel Highlands Highpoint Getaway
With an additional day, the trip becomes much more relaxed.
Day 1
Arrive at Pittsburgh Roaring Run and settle into your RV site.
Day 2
Visit Mount Davis and explore Forbes State Forest.
Day 3
Choose another regional attraction based on your interests:
Outdoor adventure: Ohiopyle State Park
Architecture: Fallingwater or Kentuck Knob
History: Fort Necessity National Battlefield
Underground adventure: Laurel Caverns State Park
This approach lets you experience several sides of the Laurel Highlands without relocating your RV each night.
Tips for RV Travelers Visiting Mount Davis
Leave Your RV at the Campground
If you have access to a smaller vehicle, use it for your Mount Davis day trip.
It will be easier to navigate forest and mountain roads without towing your full setup.
Download Directions Before Leaving
Cell service can become less reliable in forested and mountainous areas.
Save your route ahead of time.
Check Weather at Elevation
Mount Davis can be cooler and windier than lower-elevation areas.
The fact that frost has occurred during every month of the year shows how variable summit conditions can be.
Bring Layers
Even on a comfortable summer day, keeping an extra layer in the vehicle is smart.
Wear Good Shoes
You may not need hiking boots simply to reach the high point, but proper footwear is helpful if you decide to explore trails.
Pack Lunch and Water
The picnic area makes it easy to turn the trip into a relaxed half-day outing.
Allow Extra Driving Time
Mountain roads can be slower than interstate travel.
Do not judge travel time based only on mileage.
Respect the Natural Area
Stay on designated roads and trails, pack out your trash, and avoid disturbing plants or geological features.
The area is protected specifically because of its natural value.
Plan Your Mount Davis RV Getaway
Sometimes the best road-trip stops are the ones that give you a simple goal.
Stand at the highest point in Pennsylvania.
Climb an observation tower.
Look across the Laurel Highlands.
Walk through a high-elevation forest.
Have lunch among the trees.
Then get back in the vehicle knowing you checked another memorable destination off your list.
At 3,213 feet, Mount Davis may not require an extreme climb, but that accessibility is part of what makes it such a useful addition to an RV vacation. Families, casual hikers, photographers, highpoint collectors, and road trippers can all experience the summit in their own way.
And Mount Davis is only one part of the trip.
Use your time in the Laurel Highlands to explore waterfalls at Ohiopyle, architecture at Fallingwater, underground passages at Laurel Caverns, historic sites around Fort Necessity, and scenic roads through southwestern Pennsylvania.
Instead of relocating your RV each day, set up a comfortable home base and let the adventures become day trips.
Pittsburgh Roaring Run RV Resort offers full-hookup RV camping in Champion along with resort amenities for relaxing after a day on the road.
Reach Pennsylvania’s highest point during the day, then return to your campsite for a quiet Laurel Highlands evening.
