Best Campgrounds near Hazleton, PA
Established campgrounds around Hazleton, Pennsylvania provide a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations within the scenic northeastern Pennsylvania region. Hickory Run State Park Campground, located 20 miles east of Hazleton, offers tent, RV, and cabin camping in a forested setting. Tuscarora State Park, situated southwest of the city, features year-round camping with cabin and yurt options. Several campgrounds in the area feature electrical hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables, with most sites being reservable through park reservation systems or private management.
The camping season for most developed campgrounds near Hazleton typically runs from April through October, with Tuscarora State Park remaining open year-round. Sites often fill quickly during summer weekends and holidays, requiring advance reservations. Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service, particularly in more remote areas. The terrain around Hazleton varies from relatively flat campground areas to more challenging mountainous settings. According to one camper's experience at Tuscarora: "Off the beaten path in the middle of 'pennsyl-tucky'. No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain. It is free to camp at one of the spots but you must call the respective ranger station ahead of time."
Mixed-use campgrounds near Hazleton cater to various camping preferences, from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Locust Lake State Park Campground and Mauch Chunk Lake Park both provide boat access and waterfront camping options, enhancing recreational opportunities for visitors. Campground reviews frequently highlight the natural surroundings and relative tranquility of the area. At Lakewood Park Campground, campers appreciate the "beautiful and fun" atmosphere with a "nice lake" that's "perfect for fishing." Family-oriented campgrounds like Jim Thorpe Camping Resort offer additional amenities such as showers, trash service, and on-site markets, making them suitable for longer stays or campers seeking more conveniences during their outdoor experience.