The Andreas area in eastern Pennsylvania sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation within the western edge of the Pocono Mountains, where dense forests meet rolling farmland. This transitional zone creates a distinctive camping environment with temperature swings of up to 20 degrees between day and night, even in summer months. Campers report excellent fishing opportunities in the area's streams and lakes, with trout being the most commonly caught species.
What to do
Hike the boulder fields: Blue Rocks Family Campground sits at the base of the Pinnacle Trail, offering unique hiking experiences. "This place really has something for everyone! Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff. The best part was hiking in the boulder field!" shares Gayle B. The site features remarkable glacier rock formations you can explore directly from camp.
Water activities on multiple lakes: At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating. "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, went to bed, woke up to make some breakfast and then we were off to go rafting on the Lehigh river 10 minutes away," reports Emma T. The park offers kayak rentals and a beach area for swimming.
Mountain biking and adventure activities: Winter ski resorts transform for summer recreation near Andreas. Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort offers unique opportunities as one camper explains: "If you choose adventure this is the place for you, ride the ski lifts up to the top of the mountain then you get to bike down it, they have rental bikes available or bring your own. You can also Zip line or swing through the trees if you would rather."
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Hickory Run State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its maintenance. "This is probably the largest, most well-kept public campground I have ever been to, and I'm dying to return," writes Bridget D., who adds, "They also have beautiful, fully updated showers and restrooms available." The camp store here is particularly well-stocked for forgotten essentials.
Private, wooded sites: Campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at many area campgrounds. "The sites were nice and level. It was a very quiet weekend for us as our loop was not crowded," notes a visitor to Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. Most campgrounds in this region maintain wooded buffers between sites rather than open field layouts.
Stream and creek access: Water features enhance campsite selection. At Allentown KOA, one camper noted, "Really nice campground. Staff was friendly and helpful. It's very secluded, no highway noise. Our spot backed up right to a creek and it was beautiful." Another visitor mentions, "Loved being right next to the stream. No fish in sight though. Sites were huge!"
What you should know
Bear activity: The Andreas area has significant black bear populations. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," cautions Jennifer D. about Hickory Run State Park. Most campgrounds require food storage in vehicles or trailers when not in use.
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have varied site conditions. "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," advises Amber M. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Similarly, at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, "The sites are not very defined, level or rock free. Makes it fun searching for a good position within the site."
Reservation timing: Peak season fills quickly at most campgrounds. Stonybrook RV Resort fills particularly fast with one visitor noting, "My wife was frantically trying to find a place to stay for Memorial Day weekend. They had one site left that we were lucky enough to grab." Most glamping accommodations near Andreas, Pennsylvania require bookings 2-3 months in advance during summer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers superior play facilities. "This is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," says Nick M. The playground area includes a popular zip line that both children and adults enjoy.
Swimming opportunities: Most families gravitate toward campgrounds with swimming options. "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" reports Annette M. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park. The lake provides a natural swimming experience compared to the chlorinated pools at other resorts.
Kid-friendly hiking: Parents recommend starting with shorter trails. Hickory Run State Park offers age-appropriate options as one visitor notes: "Clean, great camp store, dog friendly loop, great hikes accessible from campground!!" Most families with young children prefer the shorter loop trails under 1.5 miles.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Several RV sites require additional equipment. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, one camper noted: "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!" Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds.
Site spacing concerns: RV sites at some facilities place units very close together. "The RVs were parked so close together that none of us could use our awnings," reports one visitor. RVers seeking more space should consider Stonybrook RV Resort, where a camper mentioned: "The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup."
Access considerations: Some glamping opportunities near Andreas, Pennsylvania have challenging access points. A Stonybrook RV Resort visitor cautioned: "The entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn't easy in a 45' motorhome towing a Jeep."
