Tent campsites near Athens, Pennsylvania range from primitive sites with minimal facilities to more developed campgrounds with additional amenities. Most tent camping options lie within a 30-40 mile radius of Athens, situated across the northern Pennsylvania and southern New York border region. This area features rolling hills, deciduous forests, and numerous waterways including the Susquehanna River and smaller lakes and ponds that provide fishing opportunities for campers.
What to do
Fishing access from campsite: Long Pond Campground offers excellent fishing opportunities directly from its camping areas. One camper noted, "The pond is quite large compared to other area ponds, and there are three accesses for fishing: a regular boat launch with parking lot and dock, a carry-in kayak access near campsite 6, and a handicapped accessible fishing pier near campsite 1."
Paddling on the Susquehanna: Riverside Acres Campground provides direct river access for paddlers. A visitor mentioned, "The river in front of first row sites is 200 m broad. Eagles fish here. You can too. Good beginning or end for a canoe trip."
Wildlife viewing: The area around Belden Hill Campgrounds offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. A camper recommended, "Great at&t service. Fantastic animal preserve zoo nearby which is a must visit. Pretty golf course with full bar and food right across the street."
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Long Pond Campground provides primitive camping with water views. A camper shared, "I was able to score a spot right on the pond next to a dock. People have driven in to fish and kayak so I don't feel isolated and afraid, and I am just a few steps away from sitting on the dock and admiring the scenery."
Spacious campsites: Oh! Pear Orchards offers tent sites with ample room along a creek. According to one reviewer, "Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting, firewood easily accessible, close to state parks and lots of wide, open undeveloped space."
Level sites with shade: Tent campsites throughout the region typically feature flat areas under tree cover. At Long Pond, "The camp sites I saw all seemed to be large and level spots all located beneath the tree canopy. Sites seemed disbursed enough to provide a modest level of privacy."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds in the Athens area have limited seasonal availability. Belden Hill Campgrounds operates from "Apr 1 - Oct 30," while others may close during winter months due to weather conditions.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Some camping areas offer minimal services. At Long Pond Campground, a camper advised, "There is no water or garbage services at this site. There is a port-a-potty near the entrance but otherwise a 'leave no trace' situation."
Security considerations: Remote sites may have accessibility issues. One Long Pond visitor observed, "The other campsites nearby are not located in a distinct campground, but are strung out along the shoreline close to the highways, each with its own driveway right off the highway, which creates a lack of privacy as passersby can quite easily pop right in off the highway."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access sites: Lawrence Recreation Area offers family-friendly camping near water. A visitor reported, "Had a great few days here camped in RV next to lake. Amazing driftwood to be had. Good kayaking. Peaceful. Trees. Nice sites if close."
Assistance with equipment: Some locations provide help with gear transport. Oh! Pear Orchards offers solutions for families with equipment: "The hosts also offer valet service to your site, though we did not need that with the cart. Our family of 4 has camped all of the US and this was one of our favorite spots."
Midweek camping: For quieter family experiences, consider non-peak times. One Lawrence Recreation Area camper suggested, "I'd go back mid week or off season" to avoid crowds during busy weekend periods.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Gardner Hill Campground, RV options exist but are limited. A visitor described it as "No frills but very comfy and nice views. Don't forget to look for the Peace sign."
Hookup availability: RV sites with services are available at select locations. At Belden Hill Campgrounds, one RVer shared their experience: "Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts. No pool but swimming pond which is not real appealing but useable."
Power considerations: Some primitive sites lack electrical access. A Long Pond camper noted, "Campsites are level and long enough for a very small trailer. The trees are so thick we could not feed our solar panel."
