Tent campsites near Dalton, Pennsylvania cluster within the Endless Mountains region at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,600 feet. Most sites sit within hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple and birch trees, creating natural canopies over campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Hiking near Manny Gordon Recreation Area: The nearby trails range from easy 1-mile loops to challenging 8-mile routes with moderate elevation gain. A camper noted, "Very open, plenty of space. most campgrounds have previously stocked wood from other people, makes setting up very convenient. lots of ticks tho so get your spray."
Paddleboarding at Mauch Chunk Lake Park: The 330-acre lake offers calm waters perfect for beginner paddleboarders with rentals available for $15/hour. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars," according to a reviewer.
Rafting excursions from Whitewater Challengers: Guided whitewater adventures operate on the Lehigh River from April through October with dam-release weekends offering the most exciting Class II-III rapids. As one visitor mentioned, "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing. The campground is definitely great for Girl Scout or school groups."
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Most tent camping areas provide at least 30 feet between sites with natural undergrowth creating privacy barriers. "I've stayed here a couple times with groups. I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do," shared a Mauch Chunk Lake Park visitor.
Creekside camping: Several campgrounds feature sites positioned along small waterways, offering natural white noise and fishing opportunities. At Oh! Pear Orchards, a camper noted, "This is a special place! Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting, firewood easily accessible."
Weekend entertainment options: Some campgrounds organize scheduled activities like outdoor movies and live music during summer weekends. At Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center, "Stayed here for Riverfest and it was great. Bands throughout the night with beer and food. Nice showers."
What you should know
Summer weekend crowding: Many of the public camping areas fill to capacity between Memorial Day and Labor Day, especially those with water access. A Belden Hill Campgrounds visitor observed, "Great campground, majority is seasonal. The views for the pull through weekender sites are to die for. New owners are making some great updates."
Site terrain considerations: Many tent sites have uneven ground with natural obstacles that require careful tent placement. "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," reports a camper about terrain at some locations.
Limited cell service: Cellular coverage is spotty throughout the region, particularly at campgrounds in valleys or heavily wooded areas. Belden Hill provides "Full hook ups and wifi but wifi wasn't working too well. Good enough for web surfing on phone but no streaming on TV. Great at&t service."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with amenities: Families with young children benefit from sites with bathroom facilities and organized activities. One visitor noted, "One of the best places we have stayed. The campground was spacious and while it was likely full, it still felt secluded. Beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals."
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Even summer nights can drop into the 50s in this region, requiring layered clothing and appropriate sleeping bags. A visitor to Scrub Mountain Retreat mentioned the importance of proper gear during their stay.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds maintain strict quiet hours while others allow music and gatherings late into evening. "We visited in the summer on a weekend when it was full. The campsites are too close to each other and we were surrounded by very loud campers. It was not just 1 group; there were multiple parties making a lot of noise until after midnight."
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most campgrounds near Dalton offer minimal RV amenities, with many providing only water and electric hookups. At Hillside Campgrounds, "The dance club could be better, but overall, it's a great place to go hang out for a weekend. Wifi and internet coverage is decent."
Seasonal camping popularity: Many RV sites in the region are occupied by seasonal campers who maintain long-term residency. "Got in late, the new owners found a spot for me #81. Very nice couple, mostly older campers in year round RV's. Very quiet, good showers, very clean," shared a visitor.
Access road considerations: Several campgrounds have narrow approach roads with steep grades that challenge larger rigs. One RVer commented, "Easy access off I-88 friendly owner, friendly seasonal people. Pull thru full hookup, level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts."
