Temple, Pennsylvania camping areas offer tent sites on both public parklands and private farms within a 35-mile radius. The region sits between 300-500 feet in elevation with humid summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most tent camping sites remain open April through October, with several locations closing during winter months due to freezing temperatures.
What to do
Paddle sports access: Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides lakefront sites where campers can launch kayaks and paddle boards directly from their campsite. One visitor noted, "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm... I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."
Disc golf courses: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park features a disc golf course among its recreational options. A camper mentioned the "phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing" available at this location, making it suitable for visitors seeking active outdoor pursuits.
Trail hiking: Evansburg State Park Campground offers numerous well-marked trails along creeks. According to one review, "Since he was 2 years old I've taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails to wandering in the woods looking for 'adventures'." The park has varying terrain but tends to be muddy after rainfall.
What campers like
Natural formations: Boulder Ridge Farm provides camping sites among impressive rock features. A reviewer appreciated the "really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome," highlighting the unique geological formations that differentiate this site from others in the region.
Secluded settings: Rolling Hills Retreats offers a private camping experience just an hour from Philadelphia. A visitor reported, "We are so thankful for the host as he was very accommodating but also gave us privacy... we were able to ground our energy from the earth which is hard to do in a concrete city."
Wildlife encounters: Several tent camping areas near Temple feature diverse wildlife. At Evansburg, a camper shared videos showing his young son interacting with the natural environment: "He's taking to fishing, and wanting to do everything himself, from baiting the hook, to casting the line to throwing rocks at the trout."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Best tent camping near Temple, Pennsylvania has restricted availability. A reviewer at Hibernia County Park noted, "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."
Water availability: Many tent camping sites have limited water access. At Hibernia County Park, "There is one spigot at the bathroom," requiring campers to plan accordingly. Multiple sites lack water hookups, making it essential to bring adequate supplies.
Vehicle access: Some campgrounds require walking to reach tent sites. A visitor to Boulder Ridge Farm mentioned, "2WD is fine but 4WD will make your experience getting to the property a bit more smooth," while Shambala at Mystic Hollow requires carrying gear from parking areas to creekside sites.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly fishing: Hibernia County Park offers dedicated fishing areas for younger visitors. A camper shared, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," which provides an activity specifically designed for kids under 12.
Playground access: Several parks include playground equipment. At Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park, visitors appreciate the "great picnic area with grills" along with playgrounds that keep children entertained between hiking excursions.
First-time camping locations: Sites with basic amenities serve as good introductions to camping. One reviewer at Mauch Chunk Lake Park said, "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Temple provide minimal RV accommodations. At Hibernia County Park, a camper with a 28-foot fifth wheel noted, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank."
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. The same Hibernia reviewer mentioned, "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," suggesting that blocks or levelers would be helpful equipment.
Dump station planning: No dump stations exist at several campgrounds. As one RVer warned, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," making advance planning essential for longer stays.
