Campsites near Bushkill, Pennsylvania sit within the northern Pocono region at elevations between 500-1,200 feet. This area experiences rapid temperature shifts even during summer months, with overnight lows potentially dropping into the 40s during spring and fall camping seasons. Many camping areas near Bushkill require advance permits for backcountry sites, with most established campgrounds operating from mid-April through late October.
What to do
Hike to wolf preserves: Camp Taylor Campground offers direct access to the Lakota Wolf Preserve where you can hear wolves howl at night. "There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to camp," notes Julie F. The preserve offers tours twice daily on weekends.
Explore boulder fields: The unique geological formations at Hickory Run State Park Campground are worth the trip. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," reports Amber A. The boulder field requires a drive on a stone road through wooded areas.
Paddle the Delaware River: Driftstone Campground provides direct river access with boat rentals. "There is a boat ramp that can accommodate small boats and kayaks for rent. Things to do nearby include tubing, kayaking, rafting on the Delaware," explains Kathy G. The campground sits directly on the river with sites along the water.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers repeatedly mention well-maintained bathrooms at Worthington State Forest. "The facilities are modern, basic, and clean," notes Harry H. Some campgrounds offer shower houses with hot water while others have more basic setups.
Privacy between sites: Mountainview Campground offers secluded tent sites away from crowds. "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing," writes Scott A. Many sites are set in wooded areas that create natural barriers.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camping areas near Bushkill provide chances to see native animals. "We heard about some bear incidents here recently but we didn't encounter any or any evidence of them," says Harry H. from Worthington State Forest. The region supports deer, fox, and occasionally black bears, requiring proper food storage.
What you should know
Weather preparation: The mountain location means conditions change rapidly. "The mountain weather changes quickly, so pack layers and rain gear even if the forecast looks clear," explains a visitor to Bushkill. Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common.
Reservation requirements: Camp Taylor Campground has strict arrival policies. "I reserved two nights, but the first night we were not going to be able to arrive until after 9. After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night," reports Kyhlea D. Most campgrounds near Bushkill require reservations weeks in advance for summer weekends.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds strictly enforce quiet hours while others allow more social activity. "Unlike many other campgrounds we've been to, they are very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire," notes Dan B. about Camp Taylor Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with kid activities: Colonial Woods Family Resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "Fishing in the pond insite, swimming in the pool and lots of family weekends throughout the season," mentions IAN P. Many campgrounds host weekend events specifically for children.
Look for water features: Splash pools and swimming areas keep kids entertained during hot days. "The pooL and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times," shares Nicole S. about Colonial Woods. Campgrounds with water access typically charge $3-5 per person for swimming.
Consider site location: Family campers should prioritize proximity to bathrooms. "We are tent campers and went at the end of the season. We had 5 tents one per-site which wasn't ideal, but we were placed in front of the closed pool where we took all 5 sites and made one," explains Karralee B. Request sites closest to facilities when camping with young children.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Ringing Rocks Family Campground has challenging access for larger vehicles. "The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed (almost took my ac out with a huge limb)," warns Brian C. Call ahead to confirm your rig size can be accommodated.
Ask about site terrain: Many campgrounds have uneven or rocky sites. "The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," notes Sarah about Mountainview Campground. Request information about site grading and hookup locations when booking.
Consider seasonal sites: For frequent visitors, seasonal options provide convenience. "Been coming here for years with friends and have made new friends with many of the Seasonals," says Christine E. about Colonial Woods Family Resort. Seasonal site rental typically requires 3-month minimum commitments with rates around $2,000-3,000 per season.
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