The Pocono Mountains near Albrightsville, Pennsylvania sit at elevations between 1,300-2,200 feet, creating a temperate forest ecosystem that makes camping comfortable from April through October. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F while fall brings dramatic color changes and cooler nights in the 40s. The region's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade at most campsites, with June through August seeing the highest camping demand.
What to Do
Boulder Field exploration: The unique geological formation at Hickory Run State Park draws visitors year-round. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," shares Mike M. The boulder field covers 16.5 acres and requires about a 30-minute drive on gravel roads from the main campground.
Kayaking on Mauch Chunk Lake: The clear waters at Mauch Chunk Lake Park provide excellent paddling opportunities. "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake," reports Emma T. Kayak rentals cost approximately $15-20 per hour with the 330-acre lake offering multiple launch points.
Swimming at state parks: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" notes Annette M. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Most swimming areas open from 10am-6pm during peak season with no lifeguards present at many locations.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses as a key factor in their experience. "Cleanest campground bathouse I've ever used! Great hiking trail right from the site," shares Rennie S. about Mount Pocono Campground. Most campgrounds provide showers and flush toilets in central locations within walking distance of campsites.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse wildlife including deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," reports Jennifer D. at Hickory Run State Park. Black bears remain active throughout the region, requiring proper food storage in vehicles or hard-sided containers.
Hiking accessibility: Trails directly from campsites rank highly among visitor preferences. "Clean, great camp store, dog friendly loop, great hikes accessible from campground!!" notes Christa I. about pet friendly camping at Hickory Run State Park. Trail difficulty ranges from easy walking paths to moderate inclines with most trails well-marked and maintained.
What You Should Know
Bear precautions: The region has a substantial black bear population requiring specific camping practices. At Silver Valley Campsites, "There seem to be quite a few semi-permanent campers dispersed throughout the grounds," reports Ralph L. Most campgrounds require food storage in vehicles or hard-sided containers when not in use.
Weather considerations: The mountain location creates variable conditions including sudden storms. "It poured!! My husband got soaked while closing down outside and getting the trailer hooked up to head home," explains one Hickory Run visitor. Temperatures can drop 20+ degrees overnight even in summer months.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. Shirley M. notes about Hickory Run, "We were on the lookout for bear, but only saw 3 deer." The majority of campgrounds close from late October through April with limited winter accessibility due to snow and freezing conditions.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "There is a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," shares Shirley M. about Hickory Run State Park. Most playgrounds accommodate ages 4-12 with standard equipment like swings and climbing structures.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs during summer months. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, "The Switchback Trail from the campground" provides "a wonderfully scenic trail," according to Dave R. Programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day at no additional cost.
Camp store conveniences: Well-stocked stores prevent unnecessary trips to town. "The camp store had good hours and is stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need for a very comfortable stay," explains Bridget D. about Hickory Run. Most stores carry basic groceries, camping supplies, and firewood with limited hours (typically 8am-8pm).
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. "Our site was way to small even though we gave the length and width of our rig ahead of time. We were always looking for a place to park our tow because we had no extra space in front or back," cautions Donna C. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Utility connections: The placement of hookups varies significantly between campgrounds. At Peaceful Woodlands Campground, "We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area," notes a visitor. Many campgrounds offer limited 50-amp service with 30-amp more commonly available.
Road conditions: Access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "We camped at site C-14 a gravel semi-level site. Our hookups are on the driver's side but the way they have their water, electric and sewer, we had to pull in forward in order to hookup," explains Ralph L. about Silver Valley Campsites. Roads within most campgrounds remain unpaved with varying degrees of maintenance.
Scout
