Pittsburgh’s three rivers provide a lot of opportunities for summer fun, but the North Shore isn’t exactly a tropical oasis.

For many, it has become second nature to load up the car with gear, food, and family and hop on the highway out of town. But for others, taking off into the wilderness can seem, at the very least, intimidating and, in some cases, inaccessible. This guide will give you a few resources, tips, and ideas to kick off your camping adventure.