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.

Best Camping Sites Near Hazleton, Pennsylvania (183)

    1. Hickory Run State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Albrightsville, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (272) 808-6192

    $20 - $72 / night

    "Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"

    "So many beautiful trails and lots to do! We loved everything about this park except the actual campsites. The sites were very close together, and there wasn't a lot of privacy, which sucked for us."

    2. Locust Lake State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    Mahanoy City, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $20 - $29 / night

    "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice."

    "Had a site close to the lake. Many sites (including mine) were not level. The sites sizes were a bit small and i would book during peak season. I would definitely return again off season."

    3. Jim Thorpe Camping Resort

    15 Reviews
    Jim Thorpe, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 325-2644

    "Makes it fun searching for a good position within the site, kinda like roughing it in the actual wild... so not really a complaint. Sites are not very private or secluded."

    "The sites were fine and I liked the location. Next to the creek where you can fish trout (don’t forget to buy a license). About 3 miles stroll along the creek to Jim Thorpe."

    4. Tuscarora State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Barnesville, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $44 - $47 / night

    "Good hiking trails were just a short walk away from our campsite. Would definitely go back again."

    "No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc. Each yurt has a huge deck, 2 picnic tables and fire pit."

    5. Mauch Chunk Lake Park

    10 Reviews
    Nesquehoning, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 325-3669

    $20 / night

    "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."

    "Beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals. There’s much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by."

    6. Lakewood Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Barnesville, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 285-8026

    $60 - $94 / night

    "They are in the process of adding lots more sites up away from the lake in the woods plus 2 bath houses. The sites along the lake are great, but be aware most of them are seasonal."

    "You’re not allowed to swim in the lake although you’re allowed to use floats. The area has not much to do unless you would like the state park, which is close by."

    7. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground

    68 Reviews
    Sweet Valley, PA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 477-5675

    $20 - $92 / night

    "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"

    "Many of the sites looked close to the road and not very private but we were in site 63 which was pretty private(though we were lucky neighboring site 62 was empty)."

    8. Moyers Grove Campground

    5 Reviews
    Conyngham, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 379-3375

    "The campsites were clean, adequately spaced and many positioned along side a creek.  The bathhouse (hooray) was great. Recently renovated, they were extremely, clean and dry."

    "There are 3 resident geese who wander around near the creek and lakes.  It was too cool to use the pool while we were visiting but it was clean and well cared-for. "

    9. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center

    2 Reviews
    Weatherly, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 443-8554

    $10 / night

    10. Sandy Valley Campground

    2 Reviews
    Freeland, PA
    8 miles
    +1 (570) 636-0770
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 183 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Hazleton, PA

946 Reviews of 183 Hazleton Campgrounds


  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Two stars for pretty trees

    We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Called the office, they told us what other sites were available and we tried every one. Only one was remotely suitable for a travel trailer and we had to drive the wrong way through the loop to be at the right angle to even try backing it in. No luck. I’m honestly shocked that they label some of these sites as RV friendly because wow. We left and had to find other accommodations. Trying to get a refund and currently navigating their phone system/trying to get a refund. Three phone conversations later and I’ll have to call another number on Monday to get the right person to issue the refund. We’ve never stayed at PA parks before but if they’re all like this, then it makes it really hard to plan when some sites are fine for trailers and some aren’t even close. Just heads up.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Clayton Park RV Escape

    Top Notch

    A well run, well staffed, facilities are excellent. Will return

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Stoevers Dam Park

    Park is closed. We were kicked out.

    LThe park is a beautiful city park. There are 7 small, level, back-in sites with electric, a picnic table and fire pit. We arrived in a Sunday and you have to call for a permit, but the office is only open on M-F during working hours. At 8 pm, a police officer told us the park was closed because of a bear, but that they had not gotten around to putting up signs. Wound up in a Walmart instead.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Stonybrook RV Resort

    This is a great place!

    We spent four nights at Stonybrook RV Resort in Lehighton, PA, for a quiet wedding anniversary getaway— and so glad we did. We paid$150 per night total for a FHU 50 Amp Premium Back-in site (#F20). This campground makes a great home-base while hanging out in the Pocono Mountains. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • This place is in super condition— everything works as it’s supposed to and is clean and maintained 
    • The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup 
    • Our site(F20) is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped 
    • We interacted with 5 members of their staff and all were welcoming and friendly to talk with 
    • There’s a heated pool behind the office/store so it’s not noisy for campers at their sites 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Just one thing— the entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn’t easy in a 45’ motorhome towing a Jeep. This may be nitpicky— and I’m not complaining about it— just letting you know to expect it on arrival. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a great campground(I’ve already recommended it to my Newmar Kountry Klub chapter president as a possible site for a future rally).
  • R
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Wonderful campground!

    Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!! They make sure your stay is exactly what you’d want it to be.. getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back. Overall very impressed!! They even were able To get us in very last minute WITH full hook ups for my trailer!!!!

  • Jessica V.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Great weekend spot

    We went with friends for a weekend. Both families have little kids and it was a great spot with a playground, construction digging area, and a bunch of activities for the kids to do. We went in September so the pool was closed but it looked like a nice size. Full hook ups which was great! Also they have a nice stream that everyone went fishing at. They are building some new sites at the end of the property.

  • Kylie R.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Mountain Vista Campground

    A mix of being able to unplug but also have the ammenities avavilble if wanted/needed

    This campground is very clean, staff and campers are very friendly. It’s a great spot if you have kids because they have many different activities(pool/arcade games/movie nights/ and more.)

  • j
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Cranberry Run Campground

    Don’t Stay here!!

    It’s not a campground. It’s where people stash their rvs, some of whom seem to live here permanently. Caretaker was rude. Sites were all rocky and many on steep inclines. Complete waste of our time. Plus, the site looks nothing like the pictures they post, which is an area you can’t camp at. Don’t stay here.

  • b
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    Gravel lot

    It’s a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me.


Guide to Hazleton

Camping near Hazleton, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly campground or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, including those at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails are very well maintained. If you want to do the Falls Trail (21 beautiful waterfalls), it is quite challenging."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Keen Lake Resort Campground, have great fishing spots. A visitor shared, "Beautiful lake great fishing. Activities all day long for the children."
  • Swimming: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, you can enjoy swimming in the lake. One camper noted, "The beach was clean and overall the place was well kept."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Cell service can be spotty: Many campgrounds, such as Worlds End State Park Campground, have little to no cell service. A camper noted, "Absolutely no cell signal so navigating by car can be tricky."
  • Campsite proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A review for Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Facilities are disgusting and you’re right on top of neighbors."
  • Seasonal availability: Check the camping season for each site. For example, Hickory Run State Park Campground is open from the 2nd Friday in April to the 3rd Sunday in October.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A visitor at Keen Lake Resort Campground said, "Activities all day long for the children."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has a store. One camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort mentioned, "The store has just about anything you would need while visiting."
  • Pack outdoor games: Keep kids entertained with games like frisbee or soccer. A review for French Creek State Park Campground noted, "A great place to camp and enjoy downtime!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort said, "The spots are a little small, at least in the section where we stayed."
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups for convenience. A visitor at Keen Lake Resort Campground mentioned, "We had full hookups."
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds can be busy and noisy. A review for Worthington State Forest Campground stated, "If you are looking for a nice peaceful getaway from the city to quietly enjoy nature....this is not it."

Camping near Hazleton, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find campgrounds near Hazleton, PA?

The Hazleton area offers several camping options within driving distance. Tuscarora State Park Campground near Barnesville is one of the closest options, offering drive-in sites with toilet facilities. For those willing to drive a bit further, Ricketts Glen State Park Campground provides excellent camping with access to the park's famous 22 waterfalls along well-marked trails. Other options include Hickory Run State Park near White Haven, Blue Rocks Family Campground, and Sandy Valley Campground. For overnight parking options closer to town, some travelers utilize designated retail locations for quick stays when passing through the area.

What amenities are available at camping sites around Hazleton?

Camping sites around Hazleton offer varied amenities depending on the type of campground. Mount Pocono Campground provides extensive facilities including a huge swimming pool, toddler pool, and an on-site store stocked with camping essentials. Blue Rocks Family Campground offers wooded sites situated in rolling hills just below the Appalachian Trail. Most established campgrounds in the region provide fire pits, picnic tables, and bathroom facilities. Private campgrounds typically offer more amenities like swimming pools, game areas, and camp stores, while state parks generally provide more basic facilities with the benefit of immediate access to natural attractions and hiking trails.

Are there any state parks with camping options near Hazleton?

Yes, several state parks with camping facilities are within reasonable driving distance of Hazleton. Worlds End State Park Campground offers camping with access to hiking trails, scenic views, a beach area, and Loyalsock Creek. Sites vary in size and are available for reservation. Hickory Run State Park Campground near White Haven is another option with drive-in and walk-in sites, restroom facilities, and is big-rig friendly. Other state park options include Tuscarora State Park near Barnesville and Ricketts Glen State Park, which is famous for its waterfall trails. Most state park campgrounds in Pennsylvania require reservations, especially during peak seasons.