Carbondale's northeastern Pennsylvania location in the Lackawanna Valley sits at approximately 1,060 feet elevation with surrounding hills reaching up to 2,000 feet. The camping season typically extends from late April through October, with most campgrounds closed during winter months except for select locations that offer year-round access. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Lake activities at Keen Lake Resort Campground: The 90-acre lake offers multiple water recreation options. Visitors can rent paddle boats, row boats, and kayaks directly from the campground. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome," shares Shannon C. from Keen Lake Resort Campground.
Trail exploration at Lackawanna State Park: The park features a network of hiking trails including a lakeside path particularly enjoyed by visitors. "The trails are fun for relaxing hikes, we especially like the one right along the lake," explains Michael from Lackawanna State Park Campground. Many trails are moderate difficulty and connect to various recreation areas throughout the park.
Winter recreation options: Unlike most campgrounds in the region, some parks offer winter camping and activities. "We would love to come back in the winter when they have an ice rink with a warming house," notes Michael about Lackawanna State Park. For year-round campers, Promised Land State Park offers winter camping. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," reports Mara S.
What campers like
Waterfront site selection: Lakeside camping options remain popular, particularly those with direct water access. "My favorite site does [allow pets], plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" notes Nancy L. from Pickerel Point Campground. Site selection timing matters, particularly for premium spots.
Family-run operations: Several campgrounds feature family ownership that contributes to the experience. "This family run Campground is beautiful and clean. The RV sites are spaced out nicely," observes Charlotte D. about Keen Lake Resort. The personal touch extends to maintenance and activities.
Privacy levels vary: Campground layouts differ significantly in terms of site spacing and seclusion. At Ponderosa Pines Campground, one camper mentioned it's "Well kept and peaceful. They have some entertainment, but nothing rowdy." For those seeking more separation, Lackawanna State Park offers "signts that are very wooded. Some are a little close to each other, but others offer plenty of space."
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper precautions at certain campgrounds. Erik M. from Tobyhanna State Park Campground warns, "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. Camp sites were nice most had plenty of trees for privacy but were still kind of close." Bears are particularly active during summer months.
Coin-operated showers: Several campgrounds utilize pay showers rather than including them with site fees. At Keen Lake Resort, visitors note "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground" but point out "The showers are coin operated."
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Promised Land State Park, a camper reported "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon." This affects planning for those needing to stay connected.
Site surface conditions: Ground conditions at campsites vary between campgrounds and may present challenges. At Pickerel Point, one camper noted "chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!" This contrasts with other campgrounds offering more natural surfaces.
Tips for camping with families
Activity programs: Structured recreation options vary significantly between campgrounds. At Cherry Ridge Campsites and Lodging, visitors appreciate the "Multi site facility with many activities. Campfires permitted, fishing, row boat rental, bath house, dance hall." The campground also offers weekend meals: "Country kitchen has breakfast and lunch on Saturday, breakfast only on Sunday."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Shady Rest Campground, visitors note "There is also a playground and the rates are hard to beat." These areas provide central locations for families to gather.
Kid-friendly programming: Organized activities specifically designed for children are available at select locations. At Keen Lake, a visitor observed "There is a lot for younger kids to do and the grounds are pet friendly which was a huge plus for us. My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Terrain can create difficulties for larger rigs at some campgrounds. James P. from Shady Rest Campground warns, "Very hilly campground. Sites aren't level." Bringing additional leveling equipment is recommended.
Hookup reliability: Electrical systems at older campgrounds may present challenges. At Lackawanna State Park, one RVer noted "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained." Surge protectors are highly recommended.
Site dimensions: Space configurations vary between campgrounds and may limit larger vehicles. "The sites seemed a little narrow when we first pulled in, but it was plenty," reports Shannon C. about Keen Lake. For easier access, Clayton Park RV Escape gets high marks from RVers: "A well run, well staffed, facilities are excellent," according to Robert H.
