Tent camping near Bangor, Pennsylvania places visitors in the Delaware Water Gap region where elevations range from 294 feet at river level to over 1,500 feet on Kittatinny Mountain. The area experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s even after warm days. Campsites in this area range from river-accessible boat-in locations to forest platforms requiring modest hikes.
What to do
Water activities on the Delaware River: At Alosa Boat In Campsites, campers have access to multiple river pull-offs for multi-day paddling trips. "Primitive site for multi day river trips... Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access," reports Stephanie S.
Mountain hiking on Kittatinny Ridge: The area near Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain offers access to both local views and longer Appalachian Trail sections. According to Nick E., "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail."
Fishing opportunities: Walter's Boat In Campsites attracts local anglers. One visitor noted, "As dusk fell, a small group of local fishermen came walking through the camp to access the river. It turns out the locals know this place well and it is very popular with the anglers."
Swimming in Round Valley Reservoir: The pristine water at Round Valley Recreation Area makes for excellent swimming during summer months. A camper mentioned, "This body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Jenny Jump State Forest offers spacious, private campsites. "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," writes Kelsey K.
Boat-in camping experiences: Bushkill Creek Campsite provides isolation from crowds. As Anna M. notes, "The only site on the PA side of the at the start of the S-bend in Zone 4 - great to have no neighbors, though we could hear some noise across the water from the 6 Peters sites on the other side."
Night sky viewing: Camp Starry Night lives up to its name with excellent stargazing. "The stars and moon were absolutely amazing. We got some great night shots and the moon is so bright it actually looks like the sun in the photos," according to Jen R.
Group camping options: The Rivers Bend Group Campground accommodates large parties with appropriate infrastructure. Christopher W. describes it as having "Multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site."
What you should know
Access challenges: Many campsites require physical effort to reach. At Round Valley Recreation Area, "It's a pretty strenuous hike, but you'll be rewarded for the effort! If you get a site on the water, you can take a boat across to to your site," notes Agbi B.
Limited amenities: Most primitive sites have minimal facilities. Stuart K. cautions about Round Valley: "You won't get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring."
Emergency access points: Despite remote locations, most sites have emergency evacuation routes. At Alosa Campsites, "There is an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park."
Seasonal variations: The camping season typically runs April through October with varying conditions. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially at higher elevations on Kittatinny Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options for beginners: Mohican Outdoor Center provides cabin alternatives for families not ready for tent camping. "The bunkhouse was very clean, had full kitchen facilities, hot showers, and a common area with lots of reading material," reports Richard M.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local fauna. According to Dan X. at Mohican Outdoor Center, there are "plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
Water safety considerations: Round Valley Reservoir has specific swimming regulations. One camper observed, "After hiking so far in to get to this location, you're not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point."
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," writes Kelsey K.
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds in the Bangor area have restrictions for larger vehicles. Seth K. notes about Jenny Jump State Forest, "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise despite natural settings. Jocelyn G. mentions at Jenny Jump State Forest, "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Supply planning: Local stores have limited hours or may be distant. As Kelsey K. cautions, "The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!"
