Several state parks and private campgrounds surround Bath, Pennsylvania, located within the Lehigh Valley at an elevation of 420 feet. The region features a mix of wooded landscapes and open fields, with most camping options found within a 30-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, making camping comfortable from April through October when most facilities operate.
What to Do
Hiking at Hickory Run State Park: Located 25 miles north of Bath, this park offers 44 miles of trails ranging from easy to difficult. "We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls," notes a visitor at Hickory Run State Park Campground. The Boulder Field, a National Natural Landmark, makes for an interesting day trip.
Waterfront activities: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides water-based recreation opportunities. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," says one camper who enjoys the reservoir views at Spruce Run. Fishing is popular at several campgrounds with stocked ponds or creek access.
Wildlife viewing: The Lakota Wolf Preserve near Camp Taylor Campground offers a unique experience. "The camp ground is connected to the wolf preserve so you can hear them howl if you listen," mentions one visitor. Tours leave the campground twice daily on weekends, with discounted rates for campers.
What Campers Like
Private wooded sites: Mountainview Campground offers secluded camping with many primitive sites. "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing," notes a reviewer at Mountainview Campground. The campground features both wooded areas and open fields.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathhouses are frequently mentioned in reviews. "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting," warns a camper at Spruce Run, while others praise facilities at different campgrounds. Amenities vary widely between state parks and private campgrounds near Bath.
Family activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events. "We went on Halloween weekend and they had so much for the kids to do! Friendly staff and clean sites!" reports a visitor at Ringing Rocks Family Campground. Seasonal weekends often feature themed activities for children and adults.
What You Should Know
Site selection matters: Not all sites offer the same experience. "The tent sites are pretty much on top of each other, not much privacy," notes a camper at Quakerwoods. Consider requesting specific site numbers when making reservations to ensure proper size and privacy level.
Weather considerations: The Lehigh Valley area experiences occasional heavy rains. "Don't come if you're in a tent and it has been or will rain. It becomes flooded or turns into a mudpit," warns a visitor at Tohickon Family Campground. Check weather forecasts carefully before tent camping.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours strictly while others don't. "It was very loud and rowdy into the late night. There were campers making lots of noise, arming/disarming their car alarms, slamming doors, cars driving in/out, bright lights flashing, etc. all PASSED 2am!!" reports a disappointed camper at Spruce Run.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds and open spaces. "The campground is very quiet and peaceful. The owners were very friendly. The spot was spacious and comfortable. Cute sheep and goats that wander about during the day!" shares a visitor at Mountainview, noting the child-friendly atmosphere.
Choose campgrounds with organized activities: Colonial Woods Family Resort schedules regular family events. "This place was pretty nice. The bath houses were really clean. The only reason I'm giving this 4 stars is cause the spots were a little tight," mentions a camper about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. Many campgrounds offer weekend activities for children.
Consider glamping options close to Bath, Pennsylvania: For families new to camping, glamping tents provide comfort while maintaining the outdoor experience. Campgrounds like Camp Taylor offer "glamping tents with a double bed and two other fold out couches to beds," providing an easier introduction to camping for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. "Ok so let me start off by saying. If we still had our smaller travel trailer this review would've been at least 4 stars. However this place is not the place for you if you have a fifth wheel," warns a visitor at Colonial Woods Family Resort. Call ahead to verify your RV will fit in the assigned site.
Consider hookup options: Allentown KOA offers full-service sites for RVs. "We had a nice pull-through site and enjoyed our stay. Nice stream running through camp," shares one RVer. Many campgrounds near Bath offer water and electric hookups, but sewer connections are less common at state parks.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right," notes a camper at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. Bring extra leveling blocks, especially when visiting state parks or more rustic campgrounds near Bath.
