Equestrian camping near Albrightsville, Pennsylvania offers several options beyond Hemlock Hill. The Pocono Mountains region sits at elevations between 1,300-1,800 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees below surrounding areas. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially during spring and fall.
What to Do
Lake activities: Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area provides access to kayaking and swimming. "Short walk to bathrooms, showers and lake. Though had to drive to park and beaches," notes Dawn R. who stayed at site 323.
Hiking trails: Pickerel Point Campground offers several trail options. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," reports Alaina Z., who found the natural surroundings perfect for day hiking.
Fishing spots: Multiple lakes and streams support various fish species. "This park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," explains Mara S., noting Pickerel Point Campground remains "open year round" with modified services during colder months.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and wetlands support diverse animal populations. "Beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless," mentions Alaina Z. at Pickerel Point, highlighting unexpected wildlife encounters that campers appreciate.
What Campers Like
Lakefront sites: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers premium waterfront locations. "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," shares Shannon C., who found the experience worth returning for.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom quality. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground," notes Emily Z. at Keen Lake Resort, though she adds "*The showers are coin operated."
Spacious campsites: Stokes State Forest provides room to spread out. "Campsite was very spacious and had a platform where we were able to fit two tents. There was plenty of space on the site for more tents," describes E.M.V., appreciating the generous spacing between sites.
Private areas: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. "Far side of the lake which is not really within walking distance of the beach, pool and store... less busy where we were as far as cars and people which is what we were looking for," explains Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort's quieter sections.
What You Should Know
Seasonal variations: Weather impacts services. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," mentions Mara S. about winter camping at Pickerel Point Campground.
Site conditions: Terrain varies widely between campgrounds. "Chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!" warns Alaina Z. about Pickerel Point, while noting sites have "nice sizable fire pits, but they are very tall."
Cell service issues: Connectivity can be spotty. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," reports Mara S. at Pickerel Point, a common challenge in mountainous areas.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "Peak season requires minimum 5 day reservation, I believe," notes Mandy F. about Tuscarora State Park's yurt options.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Lackawanna State Park Campground provides recreation options. "Nice play area for kids, water craft rentals, nice lake. Plenty of picnic areas for day trips," reports cheryl M., who stayed in the newer full-hookup sites.
Biking opportunities: Paved areas offer safe cycling. "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..." shares Paula R. about Pickerel Point, highlighting how infrastructure benefits younger campers.
Educational programs: Some parks offer learning activities. "They have an environmental education center with programs," notes Janet R. about Lackawanna State Park, providing structured activities for children.
Beach access: Swimming areas with designated beaches enhance family experiences. "There is a beach nearby that was an excellent place to gaze at the stars," shares Carolyn M. about Pickerel Point, describing how natural features serve multiple recreational purposes.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Spruce Run Recreation Area offers mixed options. "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV," suggests Ruette W., highlighting the tradeoff between views and utilities.
Electrical capacity: Check power limitations before arrival. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about Lackawanna State Park, indicating infrastructure concerns.
Site selection strategy: Consider specific needs when booking. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Leveling challenges: Terrain can create setup difficulties. "The site has one potential drawback for some, no electric hookup, however most of the loop we were in and the other pet friendly loop was also electric capable," explains Michael about Lackawanna State Park, noting how site features vary even within the same campground.
