The camping sites near Dallas, Pennsylvania range in elevation from 800 to 2,300 feet with varied terrain throughout the Pocono Mountain region and Endless Mountains. Temperature swings can be significant even in summer months, with evening temperatures dropping 15-25 degrees below daytime highs. Most primitive camping areas in nearby state forests require visitors to pack out all trash as facilities are limited.
What to do
Waterfall hiking in Ricketts Glen: The Falls Trail system features varying degrees of difficulty with rock scrambling required in some sections. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers access to numerous falls. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained," notes Anne P.
Boulder field exploration: The boulder field at Hickory Run State Park Campground provides a unique geological feature to explore. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," reports Mike M. The fields contain small depressions where visitors can explore.
Paddling opportunities: Several lakes in the region offer calm waters for kayaking and canoeing. "A nice lake where you can rent boats or tie up your own right on the lake near the campground. Just the right size lake for kayaking," shares Cynthia P. about Frances Slocum State Park.
What campers like
Mountain biking trails: The networks of trails through state forests provide technical riding options. "Place has some of the best mountain bike trails in northeast pa," mentions Daniel F. about Moon Lake Recreation Area Campground. These trails connect to larger trail systems throughout Pinchot State Forest.
Tent sites along water: Creekside camping allows for the soothing sounds of running water. "The tent sites are right on the creek. The grounds, the little store/coffee shop and the facilities were pristine," writes Louis P. about Cozy Creek Family Campground, noting the proximity to water.
Primitive hiking access: Walk-in tent sites provide more seclusion than drive-up options. "We stayed in primitive tent sites which you had to hike into. They were very private," reports Samantha M. about Red Rock Mountain Campground. These secluded sites typically require carrying gear 100-300 feet from parking areas.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region with many areas having no service. "No cell service, which is refreshing. The sound of the creek nearby is really soothing," notes Katy R. about Worlds End State Park Campground. Download maps and information before arrival.
Wildlife precautions: The region has an active black bear population requiring proper food storage. "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 Tobyhanna State Park.
Shower conditions: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds with some offering limited or no shower access. "Showers looked reasonable but I did not use them," explains one camper. Button-operated showers at Frances Slocum State Park drew comments: "Bath houses are okay, showers are button showers and are freezing come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "There is a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," writes a reviewer about Hickory Run State Park. Most playgrounds are centralized rather than distributed throughout camping loops.
Swimming options: Lakes and pools provide swimming opportunities during summer months. Lackawanna State Park Campground features both lake access and a pool facility. "Nice hiking trails! The park has great hiking spots, a local pool, and a lake that you can rent boats or kayak on!!" exclaims Lexi.
Educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities for children. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R. about Lackawanna State Park, highlighting the structured learning opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Many campgrounds have variable site sizing that affects privacy. "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," notes a reviewer about Tobyhanna State Park's pet-friendly section. Electric sites are typically more exposed than primitive areas.
Full hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites require advance booking. Highland Campgrounds offers complete services. "Nice place to camp," reports Dale R., with the campground providing water, electric and sewer connections throughout the main camping area.
Pull-through access: Some larger campgrounds accommodate easier parking for bigger rigs. "Nice level sites easy to back in rv and set up," shares John T. about Frances Slocum State Park, noting the accessibility for recreational vehicles without difficult maneuvering.
