Bushkill, Pennsylvania sits at the eastern edge of the Pocono Mountains where elevation ranges from 450 to 1,600 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates throughout the seasons. The area receives approximately 47 inches of annual rainfall, making it considerably wetter than the national average. Most campsites near Bushkill operate from April through October, with several offering extended stays during warmer months.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: At Hickory Run State Park, trails lead to scenic water features. "We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls," notes one reviewer who found the trails rated "more difficult" were still manageable.
Visit a wolf preserve: Camp Taylor Campground offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," explains a visitor who appreciated the direct access to nature education just steps from their site.
Explore boulder formations: The region features unusual geological attractions. "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," shares one Hickory Run visitor.
Kayak local waters: Water recreation options abound within short drives. "Short drive to the Delaware River for tubing," mentions a Mountainview Campground visitor who enjoyed easy access to water activities from their site.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention hygiene standards. "The bathrooms were clean and stocked with stuff you might need," notes an Allentown KOA reviewer who appreciated the attention to detail in the washrooms.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting attracts diverse animal species. "We saw wild turkeys and deer in the morning," reports a camper at Camp Taylor Campground, highlighting the natural encounters possible even from your site.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers value peace at their sites. "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," explains a Camp Taylor visitor who appreciated the regulated atmosphere.
Stargazing conditions: The region offers excellent night sky viewing. "Incredible star gazing!" notes a visitor who found the low light pollution created optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Seasonal weather variations: The area experiences distinct seasons affecting camping conditions. "Even though it was a very hot weekend and our site was in an open area, we had a nice breeze and shade from the wooded area behind our site," explains a Hickory Run State Park visitor who found comfort despite summer heat.
Bear awareness: Wildlife management is important in this region. "Be aware that this area has a high bear population and all campers are required to keep food items in their vehicles or trailers when not at the site," advises a Hickory Run reviewer, highlighting important safety protocols.
Site selection considerations: Not all sites offer the same experience. "If you're tent camping the bathrooms are FAR and I highly doubt no one has ever peed outside at night instead of navigating through the night to them," notes a Ringing Rocks Family Campground visitor, suggesting campers consider bathroom proximity when selecting sites.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road sounds. "You can hear 78, especially at night once the campground settles down," mentions a Spruce Run Recreation Area camper who noticed ambient traffic noise at certain times.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule family-friendly events. "They had nice arts and crafts for the kids to do for dad," shares a visitor to Colonial Woods Family Resort who appreciated the Father's Day weekend programming.
Check playground facilities: Recreation options vary between campgrounds. "A nice playground with tons of kids running all over," notes a camper at Delaware River Family Campground who found the social environment ideal for children.
Consider water recreation options: Swimming facilities add value for families. "The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in," explains a Camp Taylor visitor who found the natural water feature perfect for warm weather camping with children.
Reserve sites near playgrounds: Strategic site selection enhances family camping. "There was a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," notes a Hickory Run visitor who appreciated the convenient recreation area.
Tips from RVers
Assess site access: Some campgrounds present navigation challenges. "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)," cautions a Colonial Woods visitor with a fifth wheel, suggesting smaller rigs may have easier access.
Check hookup locations: Site layout affects RV camping convenience. "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," notes a Mountainview Campground visitor who found the electrical options accommodating for various RV needs.
Consider glamping close to Bushkill, Pennsylvania: For those without RVs seeking comfort, luxury tent options exist. "Wonderful Family owned farm at the foot of Kittatinny mountain along the AT. Very easy drive to hiking in Delaware Water Gap," shares a camper who enjoyed an upscale outdoor experience.
Look for pull-through availability: Easier arrival and departure appeals to many RVers. "We had a nice pull-through site and enjoyed our stay. Nice stream running through camp," mentions an Allentown KOA visitor who appreciated the convenience of not unhooking for a short stay.
Legend
