The Pocono Mountains region around Covington, Pennsylvania sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. The area receives around 45 inches of annual precipitation, making forest growth dense and waterways plentiful. Yurt camping in this region typically remains open from April through late October, with many sites requiring advance booking during peak summer months.
What to do
Lake activities at Tobyhanna State Park: Campers can enjoy the 170-acre lake with multiple recreational options. "You can swim in the lake in the summer or do a 5-mile hike around the lake along well-marked walk paths. There are at least two parking lots (no parking fees). Both are easily accessible from State Route 423," explains reviewer J.K. at Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Waterfall exploration: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen offers access to 22 named waterfalls. "We hiked to the waterfall, it is beautiful," notes Sarah L. about Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, adding that "this area is so beautiful. A ton to explore and a huge frisbee golf course." The trails range from easy to difficult with proper footwear recommended.
Wildlife viewing: Camp Taylor provides educational opportunities with the Lakota Wolf Preserve. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private... You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," shares Julie F.
Boulder field exploration: Hickory Run State Park features a unique 16.5-acre boulder field formed during the last ice age. "The boulder field was the highlight of our camping trip. The campground has great playgrounds, several well-marked trails, and functional restrooms and showers," says Shayna, who recommends this geological wonder for families.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer secluded camping experiences. "This is honestly the best campground we have ever been to!! We loved it so much we went back again the next week even though it's two hours away. Such wonderful rustic sites that are absolutely secluded!!" reports Julie about Secluded Acres Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground," notes Emily Z. at Otter Lake Camp Resort, adding that "the staff were so accommodating and everyone was super nice."
Lakefront camping: Several campgrounds offer prime waterfront sites. "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. 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.
Four-season recreation: Winter activities are available at some parks. "We would love to come back in the winter when they have an ice rink with a warming house," mentions Michael about Lackawanna State Park Campground, noting the park's "woodsy friendly comfortable" atmosphere.
What you should know
Bear precautions: Bear activity is common in the Pocono region. "Just stayed 2 nights with my 7 yrs. old daughter we had a blast... We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," warns Erik M.
Water quality concerns: Some parks occasionally experience water system issues. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," reports Lee D. Check park websites for current water conditions.
Site privacy varies: While some campgrounds offer secluded sites, others have more open layouts. "I had a decent time camping here, they deliver wood right to your campsite. The site itself isn't bad, a lot of woods to tuck into if you camp rite. The tent pad and fire pit area is right next to the road so it almost feels like your campsite is open to passerbys," explains Addam C.
Yurt accommodations: Several parks around Covington feature yurt camping options. Some yurts include electricity and basic furnishings, while others offer more amenities. Availability is typically limited, with most requiring reservations months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "This is a great place to camp if you're a rookie camper. The sites are clean, bathrooms are pristine and there are a ton of activities. We loved the community assistance," recommends Monica K. at Mount Pocono Campground.
Swimming options: Many parks offer both lake swimming and pools. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," shares Emily Z., noting that "the grounds are pet friendly which was a huge plus for us."
Seasonal programs: Check for scheduled activities during your stay. "My family has been going there for years and finally decided that this was our final place and made it our seasonal camping place 3 years ago. My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" explains Mike H.
Multi-generational options: Yurt camping near Covington provides comfort for families with varied camping experience. Sites typically include beds, electricity, and sometimes cooking facilities, making them suitable for camping with grandparents or small children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research specific site dimensions and terrain before booking. "We picked this site because you can kayak and it's close to the tree top adventures. Typical campground with bathrooms and showers. The best part is the lake for water activities and the surrounding things you can do," advises Maggie A.
Seasonal considerations: Some RVers recommend off-peak visits. "We camped here for a weekend, and probably one of my least favorite sites so far. Hiking trails are good, the lake is nice, but there is no privacy at the campsites; they're all very small and packed tight," notes David, suggesting spring or fall visits may offer less crowded conditions.
Hookup reliability: Electrical systems can vary between parks. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," reports David about one campground, highlighting the importance of checking amperage availability when booking RV sites near Covington.
