The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Avoca, Pennsylvania sits at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet with cool summer evenings averaging 10-15°F lower than daytime temperatures. Water sources in area campgrounds often contain natural tannins that give lakes a tea-colored appearance but remain safe for recreation. State park campgrounds typically operate from mid-April through mid-October with highest demand during July and August.
What to do
Hiking waterfalls trail systems: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, explore 22 named waterfalls on moderate trails. "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," notes Lee D.
Kayaking on quiet lakes: The tea-colored lakes at Tobyhanna State Park Campground offer peaceful paddling with wildlife viewing opportunities. "The lake is nearby and doesn't get crowded. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake. We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite," reports Marlaina M.
Boulder field exploration: Unique geological formations provide unusual terrain for exploration near area campgrounds. "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," says Amber A.
Nature observation programs: Many state parks offer guided educational activities led by rangers. "Plenty to do in the state park. There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers direct lake access from certain tent areas. "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. 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.
Modern bathroom facilities: Clean, well-maintained shower houses rank high on camper priorities. "The bath houses are okay, showers are button showers and are freezing come prepared," warns Erin M. about Frances Slocum State Park, while at Highland Campgrounds, facilities are "older, but vintage."
Variety of camping loops: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers distinct camping experiences based on loop selection. "We had a full hook-up 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," describes Shirley M.
Creek-side camping options: Small waterways provide natural white noise and recreation. "The tent sites are right on the creek. The grounds, the little store/coffee shop and the facilities were pristine," says Louis P. about Cozy Creek Family Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. "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. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," advises Erik M.
Water quality considerations: Several parks experience seasonal water issues. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," reports Lee D. at Ricketts Glen.
Site selection importance: Pickerel Point Campground at Promised Land State Park has variable site quality. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper," shares Kelly F., while others note "chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!"
Off-season considerations: Some parks offer year-round camping with limited amenities. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," reports Mara S.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused activities: Lackawanna State Park Campground combines water recreation with playground facilities. "There is a beautiful lake for kayaking but not for swimming although there is a big pool. Nice trails for hiking," explains Annette M.
Playground accessibility: Many campgrounds feature play equipment of varying ages and conditions. "The campground has great playgrounds, several well-marked trails, and functional (if dirty and rustic) restrooms and showers," notes Shayna about Hickory Run State Park.
Paved biking paths: For younger cyclists, look for campgrounds with smooth surfaces. "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..." shares Paula R. about Promised Land State Park.
Dog-specific swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated pet swimming zones, though policies vary. "They have a beach for swimming with your dogs," mentions Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort, a valuable feature among dog friendly campgrounds near Avoca.
Tips from RVers
Electric reliability issues: Some older parks face power 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.
Site leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between sites. "Clean, great camp store, dog friendly loop, great hikes accessible from campground!!" reports Christa I., though others note many sites need significant leveling.
Access road conditions: Approach routes to some campgrounds present challenges. "The road in (Vacation lane) is dirt, rough and narrow. There is presently no gate as well so the public can just drive in," cautions April L. about Cozy Creek Family Campground, a situation worth considering when selecting pet friendly camping options near Avoca.
Pull-through availability: Limited in most state parks but available at some private campgrounds. "We stayed one night when it happened to rain all evening. So, we stayed inside our camper. We did take a short walk around both camping loops in lighter rain," shares Amy V.
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