Camping spots near Archbald, Pennsylvania range from lakeside destinations to densely wooded mountain retreats. The region sits within the Pocono Mountains and northern Appalachian foothills at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from December through February, while summer humidity can make tent camping challenging without proper ventilation.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers direct lake access with dedicated boat launches for kayaks and canoes. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake," shares Shannon C., highlighting the ease of water activities.
Hiking nearby trails: Hickory Run State Park Campground maintains 44 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. One camper notes, "We found the 2 trails we hiked - Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails - where were rated 'more difficult' were not bad to hike at all. We hiked both with your 2 large dogs."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access, with Tobyhanna State Park Campground providing lakeside sites for anglers. The reservoir contains various fish species and features a walkable path around its perimeter. "We walked around the reservoir on a lovely path and enjoyed the nicely-cared-for amenities," according to Gretchen R.
Swimming options: While not all lakes permit swimming, several campgrounds offer dedicated swimming areas or pools. "The kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," writes Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort, which maintains both lake swimming areas and pool facilities.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Frances Slocum State Park Campground receives consistent praise for cleanliness. "Cleanest campground I have been to. Great in between spot to worlds end state park and rickets glen," states Jennifer O., highlighting both maintenance and strategic location.
Diverse accommodation options: Pickerel Point Campground at Promised Land State Park offers everything from tent sites to cabins. "I spent the night in the Promised Land State Park at Pickerel Point and it was so pretty and quiet. There was a bathroom with flush toilets nearby and the campsites were well spaced apart," reports Carolyn M.
Family-friendly activities: Structured recreation programs appeal to families with children. A Mike H. shares about Keen Lake Resort, "My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Varied terrain and landscapes: The region offers everything from lakeside camping to deep forest settings. "We were on the far side of the lake which is not really within walking distance of the beach, pool and store. We knew this going in and were totally OK with it. I seemed less busy where we were as far as cars and people which is what we were looking for," explains Emily Z. about choosing more secluded options at Keen Lake.
What you should know
Bear activity: Several campgrounds report active bear populations requiring food storage precautions. "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. Camp sites were nice most had plenty of trees for privacy but were still kind of close," warns Erik M. about Tobyhanna State Park.
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate from April through mid-October with specific opening and closing dates. "We camp here several times a year and have never had a bad experience. Camp host is always most helpful and the park is always clean and well maintained," notes William R. about Frances Slocum State Park.
Site selection considerations: At Lackawanna State Park Campground, there are significant differences between camping areas. "Camped here for the first time and was very impressed. The campground and bathrooms were very clean. Lots of hiking trails - although they need better markings," explains Cynthia P.
Weather contingencies: Rain can significantly impact camping comfort at certain sites. "Even though I had a boo boo, they were very forgiving, after I explained that I had a brand new RV and it had an issue with my black water tank," shares Ed S. about the staff response at Clayton Park RV Escape during challenging conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Highland Campgrounds, "Playground is also older but also gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin," according to Jennifer R.
Consider shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless. The staff was incredible. So friendly And helpful," notes Corey M. about Honesdale-Poconos KOA's facilities.
Research organized activities: Some campgrounds coordinate regular activities for children. "They have an overabundance amount of activities scheduled for campers. You are able to camp in tents in the activity field or lakeside," explains Samantha S. about Keen Lake Resort.
Check swimming options: Not all lakes permit swimming, and some campgrounds offer pools instead. "The lake is nice, fishing and boating, a nice pool," summarizes one camper about Frances Slocum State Park's recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites may be limited at state parks. "We stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers," reports Cheryl M. about Lackawanna State Park's newer camping section.
Leveling considerations: Site terrain varies across campgrounds. "Nice level sites easy to back in rv and set up," states John T. about Frances Slocum State Park, indicating minimal leveling requirements.
Electrical capacity: Some campgrounds have older electrical systems with limitations. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about Lackawanna State Park.
Seasonal RV options: For frequent visitors, seasonal sites offer convenience. "People are great very well taken care of. Stay the whole season last year and will be camping there again," mentions Robin V. about the seasonal camping at Keen Lake Resort Campground.
