Rustic camping options surround Archbald, Pennsylvania, a woodland region situated at approximately 1,600 feet elevation in the northern Pocono foothills. The area receives about 45 inches of annual precipitation, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 55-80°F. Most campgrounds remain operational from mid-April through mid-October, with several accommodations offering yurt camping near Archbald providing shelter during occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Lake activities: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, visitors can enjoy multiple water recreation options on a sizeable lake. "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," notes camper Shannon C., who appreciated the easy water access.
Hiking trails: The region offers extensive trail networks through mature forests. At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, visitors can access the Falls Trail featuring 22 waterfalls. "We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked," explains Lee D.
Bouldering experiences: Located about an hour from Archbald, Hickory Run State Park provides unique geological features. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," reports Amber A.
What campers like
Privacy at secluded sites: Some campgrounds offer more isolated sites than others. "We had a full hookup site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade," notes Shirley M. at Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: The bathhouse quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Secluded Acres Campground, "Bathhouses are clean, water pressure is good, and the hot water is actually hot," according to Luis B., who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe native fauna. "Wake up to morning coffee and enjoy seeing the deer in the Campground as well as other wildlife," mentions Carl B. regarding the natural setting at Lake Mocatek Campground. Similarly, Erik M. reports, "We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent."
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Privacy between sites varies greatly between campgrounds. At Tobyhanna State Park Campground, Gretchen R. observed, "My family thought the sites were too close together and that the sites along the water would be better if they were tucked back from the road and closer to the water." Similarly, at Ricketts Glen, one camper noted, "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences unpredictable weather patterns. "We had a great time despite cold wet weather. Our site was probably one of the worst in the place but we were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit," shares Emily Z., noting the importance of site selection at Keen Lake.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds, particularly those offering yurt camping near Archbald, Pennsylvania, fill quickly during peak seasons. Most state parks open reservations 11 months in advance, with weekends booking earliest. At several locations, including Lackawanna State Park, the yurts remain available from April through October, though some heated options exist year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature better children's amenities. At Valley View Farm and Campground, families appreciate the peaceful setting. "The owners are very nice and helpful. Very clean sites and bathrooms. Quiet and peaceful at night and the other campers were very friendly," notes Dawn C., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
Swimming options: Many families prioritize water recreation. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," says Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort, highlighting the value of multiple swimming venues for children.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular family-oriented events. "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!" explains Mike H., discussing the structured entertainment at Keen Lake.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Electric service quality varies between campgrounds. At Ricketts Glen, one camper reported, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained." This contrasts with the reliable full hookups available at Lackawanna State Park's newer Ledges Loop.
Site levelness: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C," shares James S. about Honesdale - Poconos KOA.
Seasonal accessibility: Most RV-accessible campgrounds operate from mid-April through mid-October, with limited year-round options. When seeking yurt camping near Archbald, Pennsylvania during shoulder seasons, check for operational dates, as many facilities close during winter.
