Cresco's Pocono Mountain region sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation, creating cooler summer temperatures compared to surrounding lowlands. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade at most campsites, with terrain ranging from flat lakeside spots to more rugged wooded settings. Most campgrounds near Cresco remain open from April through October, with limited winter camping options available.
What to do
Lakeside activities at Promised Land State Park: Pickerel Point Campground offers direct water access from many sites. "I spent the night in the Promised Land State Park at Pickerel Point and it was so pretty and quiet. There was a bathroom with flush toilets nearby and the campsites were well spaced apart. Mine overlooked the water and had a gorgeous sunset. There was a beach nearby that was an excellent place to gaze at the stars," shares Carolyn M.
Wolf sanctuary tours: Camp Taylor Campground hosts the Lakota Wolf Preserve with on-site tours. "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," notes Julie F. The preserve offers discounted tour rates for campers.
Winter recreation: Several areas offer year-round camping for cold-weather activities. "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," explains Mara S. about winter camping at Pickerel Point.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Otter Lake Camp Resort provides well-separated camping areas. "All sites are wooded, clean and spacious. We have been coming here for 11 years! If anyone knows of a similar place in the southwest please let me know," reports Barbara M., highlighting the natural setting many campers prefer.
Indoor and outdoor pool access: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options regardless of weather. "Otter Lake has every amenity imaginable super clean swimming beach beautiful lake with boat rentals available. Tons of activities for kids and adults. Indoor pool with 2 hot tubs even a dry sauna," notes Erik M.
Clean facilities throughout seasons: Mountain Vista Campground maintains high cleanliness standards. "The staff, facilities and amenities were fantastic," mentions one reviewer. Another adds, "Set on a hillside, the campground has three levels. The tent sites all have water & electric, and have a picnic table and fire ring. The sites are fully shaded. Facilities were neat & clean."
What you should know
Cell service varies by location: Coverage can be spotty in mountain areas. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," reports Mara S. at Pickerel Point Campground. At other locations like Mount Pocono Campground, service tends to be stronger.
Bear activity requires precautions: Wildlife encounters are common in this region. "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," warns Erik M. Several campgrounds have specific food storage requirements.
Weekend reservations needed: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially in summer. "We just went there again this past summer, and the lake and near by hikes are perfect for everyone in the family," notes a regular visitor to Tobyhanna State Park, highlighting the popularity that drives high occupancy.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with kid-specific activities: Hickory Run State Park offers family-friendly features. "There was a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," notes a reviewer. The park also has a fully stocked camp store with toys and supplies.
Choose sites away from roads: When camping with kids, request interior locations. "Sites are very well shaded but some can be tight. Great activities for all ages. Had an amazing first visit and will be going back!" shares Jojo P. about Otter Lake Camp Resort.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevations mean cooler evenings, even in summer. "We drive from Arizona to camp here for 6 weeks each year. It is truly a resort with organized activities like softball, archery and ceramics for kiddos," mentions Barbara M., highlighting the need for layered clothing.
Tips for RVers
Verify site dimensions before booking: Some campgrounds have limited large rig access. At Dingmans Campground, "Gravel parking, spacious camp sites, nice fire-pit" are available, but not all can accommodate larger RVs.
Full hookup availability varies seasonally: Winter camping typically offers limited services. "Open year round" sites at Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA provide services through colder months, while state parks often shut down water connections.
Leveling can be challenging: The mountainous terrain means some sites require significant leveling. "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 one Cranberry Run visitor.
Scout
