Tent camping near Allentown, Pennsylvania offers opportunities for primitive experiences in the Lehigh Valley region, where forested ridges rise to elevations of approximately 1,600 feet. The area's temperate climate provides camping conditions favorable from April through October, with daytime summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s. Winter camping isn't recommended due to snow and freezing temperatures that make mountain trail access difficult.
What to do
Disc golf at Green Lane Park: The park features an 18-hole course through wooded areas and open fields. A visitor noted, "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing" available at Green Lane Park.
Paddle boarding on Mauch Chunk Lake: Launch directly from lakeside campsites when water conditions are calm. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town," shares a Mauch Chunk Lake Park regular.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rental equipment is available at Mauch Chunk Lake Park for exploring the clear waters. A camper mentioned, "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" The boat rental area operates seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
What campers like
Protected camping during bad weather: The pine forest near Lehigh Gap provides natural shelter. "The pine trees also provide a nice cover to make this a well-protected site in case of bad weather. Although it doesn't have the views of other parts of the trail it makes up for it in coziness," reports a hiker who stayed at the AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap.
Flat terrain for easy setup: Several primitive sites offer level ground for tents. A visitor to the Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite commented, "A very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local fauna. One camper at Boulder Ridge Farm shared, "Great place to escape the stress of every day life. Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome."
What you should know
Water availability is limited: Many backcountry sites lack water sources. At one Lehigh Gap site, a camper noted, "There is no water available at the site itself but there were some small creeks along the trail coming up the hill or you can fill up at the nature center near the trailhead."
Weather impacts: Recent precipitation can affect ground conditions at primitive sites. "When I was here it had recently rained and the site was overall pretty boggy. The ground was relatively soft but without a good ground tarp, you might get a little wet," warns a backpacker at Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground.
Privacy varies significantly: Some sites offer seclusion while others place campers in close proximity. One reviewer of Green Lane Park observed, "The campgrounds are clean but the sites are way too close together and there is not any privacy."
Tips for camping with families
First-time camping location: Developed campgrounds with amenities make introduction to camping easier. "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby," explains a camper about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Evening noise levels: At popular campgrounds, enforce quiet times for your group. A visitor to Mauch Chunk remarked, "The campsites were adequate size. The campground is very close to lots of outdoor attractions and fun in the Jim Thorpe and Blue Mountain area."
Recreational activities for children: Select campgrounds with beach areas for swimming and organized activities. "Beautiful campground. Clean restrooms, lots of open space!" noted a visitor to Green Lane Park, making it suitable for families with young children.
Tips for RVers
Site selection for privacy: Choose perimeter sites when possible at developed campgrounds. One Mauch Chunk visitor recommended, "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."
Uneven terrain challenges: Some campgrounds feature exposed roots and rocks that complicate setup. A camper advised, "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," which applies equally to RV leveling and outdoor setup areas.
Weather preparation: Summer heat can be intense at exposed sites. "During the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars," notes a Rolling Hills Retreats visitor, highlighting the importance of seeking shaded sites during warm months.
