Best Campgrounds near Allentown, PA

The rolling hills surrounding Allentown, Pennsylvania feature a mix of established campgrounds and state parks catering to various camping styles within a 30-mile radius. Allentown KOA in New Tripoli provides family-oriented facilities with full hookups, while Nockamixon State Park Cabins offers more rustic accommodations approximately 20 miles southeast of the city. Quakerwoods Campground in Quakertown maintains a community atmosphere with seasonal campers and welcomes short-term visitors. Blue Rocks Family Campground near Lenhartsville sits below the Appalachian Trail, offering tent sites on higher ground and RV sites in lower sections. The region's campgrounds typically operate from April through October, with a few state park facilities remaining open year-round.

Reservation requirements vary significantly across the area, with most private campgrounds accepting bookings up to six months in advance. Pennsylvania state parks like French Creek State Park Campground implement a reservation window that opens 11 months before arrival. According to one camper at Quakerwoods, "The location is 90 minutes to NYC, 60 minutes to Philly and 20 minutes from Allentown and Bethlehem," highlighting the strategic position for exploring the broader region. Spring camping often encounters muddy conditions, particularly after rainfall. One reviewer at Locust Lake State Park noted, "It rained heavily during our first day there and the sites became extremely muddy," suggesting gravel sites offer better drainage. Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours, with some private facilities conducting regular security patrols throughout the evening.

Waterfront sites at several campgrounds receive consistently positive feedback, though availability is limited. French Creek State Park features two lakes with fishing opportunities and boat rentals available seasonally. Tent campers sometimes report challenges at RV-oriented facilities, with one visitor noting, "We are tent campers and were placed at the far end of the campground... All of the locations around or close to the bathroom/shower rooms were RVs." Pennsylvania state parks generally maintain well-kept facilities with clean restrooms and hot showers included in camping fees. Proximity to hiking trails varies considerably between campgrounds, with some requiring short drives to trailheads. The region's fall foliage draws significant crowds in September and October, making advance reservations essential during this peak season. Wildlife sightings, including bears in more remote areas, add to the camping experience but necessitate proper food storage.

Best Camping Sites Near Allentown, Pennsylvania (176)

    1. Quakerwoods Campground

    15 Reviews
    Coopersburg, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 536-1984

    "The location is 90 minutes to NYC, 60 minutes to Philly and 20 minutes from Allentown and Bethlehem. Bucks County is a bit hard to explore and lower Bucks is a hike but, there is nothing closer."

    "If you find yourself careening around the picturesque country roads here in Bucks County you will discover Quakerwoods Campground (named of course after the previous tri-cornered hat-donning Quaker residents"

    2. Allentown KOA

    15 Reviews
    Germansville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 298-2160

    "This campground is nestled in rhe mountains of Pennsylvania. This campgound is family oriented, it has a pool, a store, a game room. They also do things for different holidays."

    "We chose this campground mainly because it was close to home and we could camp and not miss my daughter's soccer practice/game.  We were pleasantly surprised by the campground. "

    3. Tohickon Family Campground

    16 Reviews
    Richlandtown, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 536-7951

    "Nothing bad about this place, I love that it's set far enough away from the main road that you don't get the noise."

    "Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!!"

    4. Nockamixon State Park Cabins

    13 Reviews
    Richlandtown, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 529-7300

    $70 - $92 / night

    "They have a lot of land so it’s easy to find a secluded spot to hang out away from paths and people!"

    "Great place to picnic fish from land or boat, go for a nice scenic walk, go Kayaking, etc. If you don't own a boat, you can rent one right at the lake."

    5. Blue Rocks Family Campground

    26 Reviews
    Lenhartsville, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 756-6366

    "According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."

    "Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."

    6. Boulder Woods Campground

    11 Reviews
    Red Hill, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 257-7178

    "Nice place, a bit to close to the highways"

    "It was quite muddy so we moved our set up into the grass field, we reserved the majority of the sites in this location so it worked well. The RV spots seem nice and large."

    7. French Creek State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    8. Ringing Rocks Family Campground

    13 Reviews
    Kintnersville, PA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 982-5552

    "Store has most, if not all you essentials. ( had to get an extension cord because I forgot one of mine) so, if everything was positive, why did I give it four stars??"

    "There are many beautiful sights around including the Delaware River, ringing rocks Park, and Nockamixon. The park is clean and well-maintained, the facilities are clean as well."

    9. Colonial Woods Family Resort

    11 Reviews
    Kintnersville, PA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 847-5808

    $52 / night

    "Dump station location isn’t ideal on a busy morning."

    "The actual tent sites are next to the road, which is a shame because we seem to always get the crap locations furthest from the bathrooms, this makes no sense when RV’s have bathrooms and tents are basic"

    10. Hickory Run State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Albrightsville, PA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (272) 808-6192

    $20 - $72 / night

    "Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"

    "Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground.   "

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Recent Reviews near Allentown, PA

1036 Reviews of 176 Allentown Campgrounds


  • Sue B.
    Oct. 26, 2025

    AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap

    Good site for camping

    Camped here the night before doing Lehigh Gap, it was less than a mile from the parking at Blue Mountain Rd. (Official A.T. parking). The only downside was my sleeping pad sprung a leak, so it wasn't the best night's sleep. But the site itself was great and I would camp there again.

  • K
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Beechwood Lodge Nudist Camp

    Great day trip

    First timer visitors , had a blast , people were very helpful, nice and made us feel very welcomed!

  • Marc P.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Blue Rocks Family Campground

    Very nice but a little pricey.

    Been here many times always in the fall. Never been here in summer so have never used the pool. Great little store and small grill restaurant. The trails and the rocks are nice. Our site was very rocky and on an incline so hard to get the camper level. It was a “pop up/tent” site and we were in a small travel trailer so it’s understandable. Only criticism is the it’s very pricey for what you get. And there online booking system isn’t very accurate as it said they were sold out and there was many open sites all weekend. Would be much better it they made more sites have even basic electric.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Boulder Woods Campground

    This is a have to stay campground

    Excellent stay. We spent 2 nights and had 2 sites. Big sites very quiet and the staff I’d exceptional. Even better is the amazing price!

  • Ali P.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Homestead Campground

    Here for a week

    Beautiful park. Looks like only 2 of the spots are for campers, rest are full time residents. The farther back you go in the park the worse condition the rv are. At time of visit the closest bathroom was under repair, it happens. Aggravating issues: Dump station has no water. People walk their dogs right thru your camp site and then don’t pick up after them.

    But yea, beautiful place

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Edit: 1 star- Scout sites before paying!

    Beware: these sites are not travel trailer friendly.

    We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Trees were growing up in all the sites that were available and most of the ones without trees in the way were pointing in the wrong direction for backing into and NONE were level. Called the office, they told us what other sites were available and we tried every one. Only one was remotely suitable for a travel trailer and we had to drive the wrong way through the loop to be at the right angle to even try backing it in. No luck. I’m honestly shocked that they label some of these sites as RV friendly because wow. We left and had to find other accommodations. Trying to get a refund and currently navigating their phone system/trying to get a refund. Three phone conversations later and I’ll have to call another number on Monday to get the right person to issue the refund. We’ve never stayed at PA parks before but if they’re all like this, then it makes it really hard to plan when some sites are fine for trailers and some aren’t even close. Just heads up.

    UPDATE: Called back during business hours and got the “park manager.” Could only give a partial refund for one of the two nights. I said that they weren’t clear on the condition of the sites and he said there was nothing he could do about it.

  • M
    Oct. 6, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Hard with a large group

    Harder to do with a large group due to the early quiet hours, but park is very nice and well kept

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Dog owners read!

    There’s four loops. All connected A through D. We just needed a place to park and sleep so I got D011. Got there at 11pm and the D loop says no pets allowed. Not sure why when they are at every other loop but we had no where else to go and the area is pretty far off from anywhere else so the ol lab stayed in the camper. The bathrooms are tile and really nice with showers. And it was really quiet and chilly so a nice fall camp site. Just know ahead of time if you’re a dog owner!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!


Guide to Allentown

Camping near Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One reviewer at French Creek State Park Campground said, "New bathrooms which were clean," highlighting the importance of cleanliness.
  • Spacious sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites. A visitor at Blue Rocks Family Campground mentioned, "We ended up with a great spot with no hookups and pretty secluded."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Knoebels Campground are great for kids. One parent said, "This place is awesome for the kids. You camp right at the park."

What you should know:

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Promised Land State Park noted, "Camp sites are very close together. I could hear the neighbors' conversation."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Worthington State Forest Campground mentioned, "The bathroom facilities were clean, but the hiking in the area was gorgeous and pet friendly."
  • Seasonal access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Hickory Run State Park Campground is open from the 2nd Friday in April to the 3rd Sunday in October.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Camp Taylor Campground enjoyed, "The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite."
  • Choose the right site: Look for sites that offer privacy. One camper at Pickerel Point Campground said, "I can’t believe how quiet it is here. Our site is wooded and very private."
  • Bring games: Keep the kids entertained with outdoor games. A visitor at Blue Rocks Family Campground mentioned, "The playground was great. Lots of activities."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at French Creek State Park Campground noted, "The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area."
  • Look for hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. One RV owner at Hickory Run State Park Campground appreciated, "Lots of neat things nearby such as an apple orchard."
  • Plan for weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are spaced pretty well but are not level at all."

Camping near Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free camping available near Allentown, PA?

Yes, there are several free overnight parking options near Allentown. The Home Depot — Allentown South offers convenient overnight parking close to Highway 78, making it a practical stopover location. For those willing to drive a bit further, Walmart — Phillipsburg Supercenter provides a spacious parking lot that can accommodate overnight stays. These locations are intended for self-contained vehicles and typically allow one-night stays. Remember to always check with store management upon arrival as policies can change, and practice good etiquette by purchasing something from the store and keeping a low profile during your stay.

What are the best campgrounds near Allentown, PA?

Quakerwoods Campground stands out for its strong community atmosphere, with seasonal campers who are welcoming to newcomers. The staff is friendly and the campground offers a genuine camping experience with a homey feel. For those seeking more amenities, Mount Pocono Campground in the Poconos is an excellent choice with its large swimming pool, toddler pool, and on-site store. The campground offers numerous family-friendly activities and facilities, with staff known for being welcoming and helpful. Both campgrounds are within reasonable driving distance from Allentown and provide different camping experiences depending on your preferences.

What KOA campgrounds are available in the Allentown area?

The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA is the closest KOA campground to the Allentown area. This campground offers the standard KOA amenities that campers have come to expect, including full hookup sites, cabin options, and family-friendly facilities. While it's not immediately in Allentown (about an hour's drive), it provides a convenient option for those loyal to the KOA brand. KOA campgrounds typically offer consistent quality with clean facilities, organized activities, and reliable service. For those willing to travel a bit further, there are additional KOA locations in the broader region, but the Philadelphia-West Chester location remains the most accessible option for Allentown visitors.

Are there any state parks with camping options near Allentown, PA?

Nockamixon State Park near Quakertown is one of the closest state parks to Allentown, offering cabin accommodations and various outdoor activities. The park features a lake for boating and fishing, plus miles of hiking trails. Another option is Hickory Run State Park Campground near White Haven, which provides drive-in camping with toilet facilities and sites that can accommodate larger rigs. The park spans over 15,000 acres with streams, boulder fields, and numerous recreational opportunities. Both parks require reservations, especially during peak season, and typically offer more affordable rates than private campgrounds while providing access to Pennsylvania's natural beauty.