R
Russell A.
Scout
Scout100 Mile View Camping
What a great place. So unique! Love the view, and a great experience! There are no hook ups, so be prepared but if you are looking for the dispersed camping experience you have found it. What a gem!
Camping near Cresco, PA
16 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Cresco, Pennsylvania features a range of developed campgrounds with options for tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping accommodations. Within a 30-mile radius, established facilities like Mount Pocono Campground, Otter Lake Camp Resort, and Tobyhanna State Park Campground provide varying levels of amenities. Most campgrounds in this forested area offer electric hookups, water access, and fire rings, though facility quality varies by location and management type.
Camping season in the Poconos typically runs from mid-April through October, with some facilities like Delaware Water Gap/Pocono Mountain KOA remaining open year-round. Temperatures in the region can drop significantly at night even during summer months. Water quality issues occasionally surface at campgrounds early in the season when systems are reactivated. Many campgrounds require advance reservations during peak summer months and holiday weekends, and sites with full hookups tend to fill quickly. Cell service can be limited at more remote camping areas within state forests and parks. A visitor to Hemlock Campground noted, "Only issue was the water was brown but that is most likely because we are very early in the season."
The Poconos camping experience combines wooded settings with lake and river access. Waterfront sites at places like Otter Lake Camp Resort receive particularly high ratings, with one camper describing it as having "a beautiful and peaceful lake with boat rentals available." Several campgrounds maintain recreation facilities including swimming pools, game rooms, and organized activities. Bathhouse cleanliness varies significantly across properties, with Mount Pocono Campground receiving specific praise for "the cleanest campground bathhouse" according to one reviewer. While tent sites tend to be smaller at most locations, typically 15'x35' according to reviews, the shaded, forested environment makes up for limited space. Visitors consistently mention the peaceful wooded settings and family-friendly atmospheres as highlights of camping in this region of Pennsylvania.
Best Campgrounds near Cresco (220)
1. Tobyhanna State Park Campground
"We were looking for a lakeside campground with a spacious campsite that could comfortably fit two large tents and two vehicles."
"Breathtaking views from nearby trails and nearby Big Pocono State Park. The park staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about nearby trails and best places to get the most out of the views!"
4 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $43 / night
2. Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park
"Pros: beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
"Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."
2 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $44 / night
3. Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"The tent camping area was right along the river, some sites with direct access, some you'd have to walk a little more to the larger access areas."
"Full bathrooms are located behind campsite #15 (clean flushing bathrooms, with motion-sensed lighting, showers, dishwashing sink), but easily accessible from campsites nearby."
4. Mountain Vista Campground
"Love the Campground except our site is near a fairly busy road which takes away from that beautiful tranquility. They have camouflaged it as best they could. Friendly staff. Lots to do."
"Close to Bushkill Falls which we hiked. 👍"
5. Otter Lake Camp Resort
"We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven!"
"There is a steam and some wet areas behind the row of sites we were in. I would probably avoid this section in the summer as the bugs will be bad."
6. Hickory Run State Park Campground
"Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"
"Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. "
61 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $72 / night
7. Camp Taylor Campground
"Positives: sites are decent sized with fire pits and picnic tables. easy access to hiking, convenient to a beautiful vineyard, peaceful region, and the most amazing wolf preserve is right next to you. "
"They were knowledgeable about the surrounding towns, their campground, and basically everything nature related. This was our very first night camping in an RV (we were renters at the time)."
Check Availabilityfrom $33 - $42 / night
8. Mount Pocono Campground
"Pocono Campground in the Poconos, Pennsylvania is a very active and fun vacation vacation destination! There are lots of amenities for every family member and the staff is friendly and welcoming."
"Great hiking trail right from the site. Be prepared for walking up and downhill - quite the unexpected workout. Many seasonal sites with friendly people."
Check Availabilityfrom $54 / night
9. Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA
"We wish there was easier access to bike and hike trails so we didn't have to drive to a location but overall a comfortable and positive experience."
"We were very into socially distancing, and said so when we made our reservation. We were assigned a perfect site for this."
Check Availabilityfrom $45 - $250 / night
10. Cranberry Run Campground
"A shady spot with a creek nearby and good cell service. They have a pool. The surrounding area/town is really nice."
"With my sister in-law leading this adventure I buckled up and made the 500+ mile drive as prepared asi thought i could be."
Check Availabilityfrom $44 - $72 / night
Drive Time
- 35 min from Scranton, PA
- 59 min from Allentown, PA
- 1 hr 22 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
- 1 hr 38 min from Reading, PA
Recent Camping Photos near Cresco, PA
613 Photos of 220 Cresco Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Mount Pocono Campground
Snow Hill Roadside Campsites — Delaware State Forest
Hemlock Campground & Cottages
Thousand Trails Scotrun
Otter Lake Camp Resort
Tobyhanna State Park CampgroundD
Cranberry Run Campground
Mountain Vista Campground
Thunder Swamp Trailheadb
Edgemere Roadside Campsites — Delaware State Forest
Deerfield Campground — Promised Land State Park
Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park
Recent Reviews near Cresco, PA
1145 Reviews of 220 Cresco Campgrounds
Nancy W.
LegendHickory Run State Park Campground
Peaceful State Park Camping in the Fall
This is a large campground with a wide array of campsites so be careful attention when you book online, especially if you have a pet because some sites are not pet-friendly. Some are 50-amp full hook-up and some are primitive with no hook-ups.
There is a nice nature center with interesting interpretive exhibits and lots of informational brochures including ones about the hiking trails, bears, scat and tracks of local animals, and fishing. Our site was at the edge of the campground and backed up to Route 534 which resulted in a bit of road noise at our site. Other than the road noise the campground was pretty quiet and was not very crowded when we camped there in October.
Not all sites are level and we happened to book one that was not and we had to live with a slant for our stay. The roads in the park are gravel/dirt and since it rained the day we arrived the roads were a muddy mess which made the roads slippery and there were lots of potholes. Unfortunately, some campers were disrespectful and left bags of trash in the fire pit and scattered around their site which was totally unnecessary because there were dumpsters plenty of dumpsters in the campground. Since we camped at Hickory Run late in the season, there were no camp hosts and the trash never got picked up.
The campground is open from mid-April to mid-December; however, the shower facilities and dump station are not available after the third week of October so plan accordingly. We really like the hiking trails which are of varying degrees of difficulty and lengths. The Hawk Falls is a nice easy walk (1.4 miles round-trip) to a waterfall but is extremely popular so don’t think you will be admiring the falls alone. The parking lot at this trail head fills up fast so you better get there early if you want to get a spot.
You can enter the park from two different directions. If you have a big-rig, it is best to approach from the east side. We made the mistake of coming in from the west side as we dropped down from I-80 and came down 534 and the road was really windy with no shoulder. Luckily, there was very little traffic so we could go 10 mph and safely navigate the roads.
Be aware alcohol is not allowed in PA state parks. This park does allow hunting in certain sections of the park. The no-hunting areas are clearly marked with white no hunting signs on trees and you can also pick up a brochure from the office that designates hunting and no-hunting sections.
Tony F.
Guide100 Mile View Camping
The best views
This is a hidden gem, as close to dispersed camping you can get with dirt, gravel roads, large stone fire pits, a amazing views with the added benefit of a five gallon jug of non potable water and very clean port-a-potties. The owner regularly patrols the site and makes sure everything is okay.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
- WWill W.Guide
Lackawanna State Park Campground
Car camping
Stayed October 14 without reservations because website showed lots of availability. Office was closed (M-F 8-4) so submitted honor system envelope with cash and stayed at Site 041 on Carpenter loop. Shower building was a short walk and was spacious enough. Water temp didn’t quite reach hot but was warm enough.
Electric kept on tripping breaker.
Roger V.
TravelerBake Oven Knob
solid parking place for vans and RVs. road is dirt gravel but not terrible. nice hike nearby
- jjeanne A.Guide
Council Cup Campground
Better than nothing
Small campground with rude owner. Everything I asked about was putting her out. It was cheap though at $36 for water and electric with a military discount.
Daniel C.ScoutHillside Campgrounds
Stay away... Unless you like 70 y/o men acting like high schoolers
This clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
Thomas B.
RangerNeversink River Resort
Cool Riverside Campground
I'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
Guide to Cresco
Camping sites near Cresco, Pennsylvania offer multiple options within Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains, which has an average elevation of 1,800 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the region sit among oak, maple, and hemlock forests that provide natural shade during summer when temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during daytime hours. Water temperatures at lake beaches remain quite cool even in July, rarely exceeding 68-70°F.
What to do
Kayaking on calm waters: At Pickerel Point Campground, visitors can launch kayaks directly from their campsites. "I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," notes camper Nancy L. The crystal-clear lake water makes for excellent paddling conditions.
Hiking mountain trails: The trails at Tobyhanna State Park Campground offer scenic walks around the lake. "You can swim in the lake in the summer or do a 5-mile hike around the lake along well-marked walk paths," explains reviewer J K. The average hiking time for the lake loop is about 1.5-2 hours for most hikers.
Swimming in natural settings: Swimming options range from lake beaches to pools. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," reports Debbie W. about her experience at Pickerel Point.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Some camping areas offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," explains Dina S. about her stay at Camp Taylor Campground.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural settings at Camp Taylor Campground. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time," says Julie F. Most sites include fire rings, picnic tables, and at least partial shade.
Family-friendly amenities: Otter Lake Camp Resort receives high marks for its recreational options. "Beautiful Lake with fishing & boating, pools indoor and outdoor, great playgrounds, great biking even a trail around the like, lots of activities planned," writes Nicole S. The resort offers organized activities like softball, archery, and ceramics.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse cleanliness varies between campgrounds, with some receiving exceptional reviews. "This campground is huge, lots of sites to choose from. There is a big lake you can fish from, kayak, bring your own boat and even swim from when it's warm out," notes Tiffany S. about Otter Lake Camp Resort.
Accessibility to hiking trails: Proximity to hiking opportunities ranks highly with campers. "We hiked to Mt. Tammany from the campsite for the best view in NJ (9 miles round trip)," shares Dina S. Many campgrounds connect directly to trail networks or are within short driving distance of major trails.
What you should know
Site terrain varies widely: Campsites in the region have different ground surfaces. At Worthington State Forest Campground, "The spots are huge, and mostly private. When we go camping we don't want to be right up against our neighbors and at worthington we pretty much had our own little island," reports Fransheska A.
Seasonal water issues: Early in the camping season, some facilities have water system challenges. "Careful on the roads to the campsite, they're a bit on the bumpy side. Defo smaller roads than your usual ones," notes Christine N. about Worthington State Forest Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are present in the region, requiring food storage precautions. "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," advises Erik M. from his experience at Tobyhanna State Park.
Varying levels of privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," shares Kelly F. about Pickerel Point Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near recreation areas if traveling with children. "It's a great spot if you have kids because they have many different activities(pool/arcade games/movie nights/ and more)," recommends Kylie R. at Mountain Vista Campground.
Swimming options: Facilities with swimming areas provide important recreation for children. "Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc," shares Paula R. about her family's experience at Pickerel Point.
Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events for younger campers. "We've tried to camp at least one weekend a month from spring through fall and try different places, but we always come back to Mountain Vista! The staff is friendly and helpful and they have a ton of great activities from kids carnival, craft beer tastings, farmers market, bingo," explains J K.
Spacious sites for play: Sites with room for children to play safely make family camping more enjoyable. "The tent sites are all very close to the lake, especially the tent sites. The facilities are modern, basic, and clean," notes Harry H. about Worthington State Forest Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness considerations: Many campgrounds in the Poconos have uneven terrain. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, "We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade," explains Shirley M.
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are limited at some locations. "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," notes Kelly F. about her RV site at Pickerel Point.
Winter access options: Some campgrounds remain open year-round for RVers. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," shares Mara S. about Pickerel Point Campground.
Road access challenges: RVers should note access road conditions. "If you're looking for a place to crash with your camper for the weekend this is the spot for you. The driveway is a little hairy- steep with crushed stone on top of pavement. Which led to some tire slippage on the way up with our setup," cautions Corey P. about Cranberry Run Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Cresco, PA?
What camping is available near Cresco, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cresco, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 220 campgrounds and RV parks near Cresco, PA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Cresco, PA?
Which is the most popular campground near Cresco, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cresco, PA is Tobyhanna State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 27 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cresco, PA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cresco, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Cresco, PA.
What parks are near Cresco, PA?
What parks are near Cresco, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 parks near Cresco, PA that allow camping, notably Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Upper Delaware National Scenic and Recreation River.
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