Many travelers seek glamping close to Athens, Pennsylvania during summer months when average daytime temperatures reach 78°F. The region's varied terrain features rolling hills between 800-1,200 feet elevation alongside multiple waterways including the Susquehanna River. Most camping areas receive moderate rainfall even in summer, with July averaging 4 inches of precipitation.
What to Do
Waterfall exploration: 3.7 miles of trails at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground showcase cascading water features. "Great hiking! There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" reports Lexi, who especially appreciated the pet-friendly policy.
Fishing: Catch-and-release only at local ponds requires proper equipment. "Good fishing in pond (cant use live bait or keep fish)" explains Shawn V. about the designated fishing areas.
Swimming: Natural water access at multiple locations throughout summer months. "Beautiful at sunrise, not so at sunset because the sun sets behind the mountain," notes Alexandria about swimming spots at Hills Creek State Park Campground.
Hiking: Well-maintained trails range from flat lakeside paths to more demanding routes. "We did it with a 5 year old and he had no complaints. The nature talks were really fun for the kids and interesting for the adults," describes J K. about the family-friendly hiking options.
What Campers Like
Private docks: Designated lake access points allow direct water entry. "The lakeside spots are gorgeous and the private dock is great when you have kids that love to fish," explains Tracey, highlighting this amenity for families with children.
Clean bathroom facilities: Recently upgraded shower buildings include private stalls. "The buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each. It's the only shower camping this year my 4yr old wasn't afraid of because we had the whole room to ourselves," describes Katye M. about the bathroom setup at Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground.
Wooded tent sites: Shaded camping areas provide natural cooling in summer. "I chose this campground because the photos of the pool/splash pad looked fun. It turns out the tent site we had was the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year," reports Katye M., appreciating the tree coverage.
Seasonal activities: Scheduled events occur primarily on weekends. "It was a rainy weekend and the kids still had a blast. We had the Moms due that paint and sip event for Mother's Day and it was well planned and enjoyed!" shares Jared M. about the organized activities.
What You Should Know
Cell service: Limited connectivity affects most campgrounds in the area. "Not great cell phone service but it was great to disconnect," notes Jared M., considering this a positive feature for families seeking unplugged time.
Reservation timing: Summer weekends book quickly, especially for premium sites. "Get your reservations in early though weekends for lakeside sites are booked super fast!" advises Tracey based on personal experience.
Water quality: Variable by location with some facilities requiring filtration. "Make sure you use a water filter, there was a lot of sediment in the water when we were there," warns Michael H. at Ferenbaugh Campground, showing evidence of four days on a new cartridge.
Wildlife encounters: Bear and raccoon sightings occur regularly in camping areas. "Beware of raccoons. They are brazen thieves here...and every campground they inhabit. Just don't leave your food out," cautions Mary S., emphasizing proper food storage.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Multiple play areas distributed throughout larger parks. "Several playgrounds, heated pool, pet friendly with shots paperwork," lists Shawn V., highlighting amenities specifically designed for children.
Quiet tent sites: Wooded areas provide better sleeping conditions. "The tent sites are located in the back of the campground behind the sports field within the trees," Amy R. describes at Watkins Glen / Corning KOA, noting the separation from RV areas.
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities teach about local wildlife. "The rangers offer educational programs that are free of charge!" Amanda H. shares about the family-oriented learning opportunities.
Swimming options: Both natural and pool facilities available for different preferences. "Playground and shallow swimming area for children with life guards and a sandy beach and new bath house," describes Mary P. at Chenango Valley State Park Campground, highlighting the family-friendly water access.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request shaded spots when making reservations. "We stayed in the large loop, which is a peninsula on Lake Jean. Many of the sites have lake views," explains Lee D., describing the premium RV locations.
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks for uneven surfaces. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling," notes James S. about the site preparation needed.
Hookup availability: Different service levels exist throughout the region. "The sites are good sized, they offer cabins as well. The bathhouses are clean and well lit at night," mentions Deb S., describing the campground amenities.
