Dog-Friendly Camping near Covington, PA

Tobyhanna State Park Campground sits in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountain region at an elevation of approximately 1,900 feet. The area experiences cool mountain temperatures, with summer highs averaging 75-80°F and nights dropping to 50-60°F. This climate variation makes the region suitable for camping from late spring through early fall, with consistent rainfall requiring waterproof gear year-round.

What to do

Swimming at the lake beach: Tobyhanna State Park features a swimming area at the lake with nearby changing facilities. "The lake is very nice a little copper kind of like iced tea color but was very nice. They have a few hiking trails we didn't get to do, also have a horse shoe pit volleyball ball area and a little play area in the camping area," notes Erik M. from Tobyhanna State Park Campground.

Kayaking and boating: Many campgrounds offer lake access for water activities. "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," shares Maggie A. about Tobyhanna State Park.

Hiking trails: The region offers numerous wooded trails with varying difficulty levels. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," explains Alaina Z. at Pickerel Point Campground. For more challenge, "Recommend Little Falls Trail. We also explored Conservation Island. Many more trails to explore and not enough time," advises Kelly F.

What campers like

Lakefront camping options: Many sites offer direct water access or views. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," shares Kelly F. about Deerfield Campground.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area hosts diverse wildlife including eagles and bears. "Scenic and spacious. Large camping areas that can fit two cars onsite and include picnic tables, some even with water and electric hookups. The bathrooms are large and well kept. The lake is nearby and doesn't get crowded. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake. We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite," reports Marlaina M.

Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathhouse offers warm showers, 2 dishwashing sinks, and a coin-operated washer and dryer. The facilities are kept very clean," notes Angel A. about Lower Lake Campground Northwoods Area.

What you should know

Bear activity in the region: Bears are common throughout the Poconos. "Just stayed 2 nights with my 7 yrs. old daughter we had a blast. Everyone was very nice camp host and DCNR were very helpful. 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.

Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds have limited seasons. "Site was clean and easy to locate. Depending on your site choice, there are campsites that are WAY too close together for my preference, then some that were adequately spaced and foliage offered some privacy," explains Nick P. at Lower Lake Campground Rhododendron Area.

Water quality variation: Some campgrounds may have seasonal water issues. "This is a quiet campground with some full time people. Only issue was the water was brown but that is most likely because we are very early in the season," reports Kevin K. about Hemlock Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Activities for children: Several campgrounds offer dedicated recreation options. "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," mentions Maggie A.

Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change quickly. "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. The museum and crafts were closed due to Covid so that was a bummer but we found other things to do. Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc... We will definitely be back," shares Paula R.

Pet-friendly sections: For families camping with dogs, select campgrounds offer designated pet areas. "This family run Campground is beautiful and clean. The RV sites are spaced out nicely. There are plenty of things to do; paddle boats, row boats, swimming pool, snack bar/campstore, activities, etc. Very beautiful area," describes Charlotte D. about Keen Lake Resort Campground.

Tips from RVers

Site selection importance: RV site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. "The tent sites are spacious each with own picnic table and fire pit. Toilet and shower buildings are clean. Very friendly owners on site selling firewood and all other necessities in the little onsite shop," explains Claus B. about Hemlock Campground.

Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer full or partial hookups. "Big sites with 30 amp service available for RVs and trailers. Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with an adjustable grate. The pull-through sites don't offer much in the way of privacy, but that's the trade off for convenience," notes Angel A.

Off-season considerations: Some facilities remain open with limited services. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing. The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," shares Mara S. about Pickerel Point Campground.