Damascus, Pennsylvania is nestled in the Upper Delaware River Valley at approximately 750 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making it ideal for riverside camping from May through September. Several campgrounds in the region offer designated tent sites as well as cabin and yurt camping options with varying levels of amenities and river access.
What to do
River activities: 10-15 miles of paddling: The Delaware River provides excellent kayaking routes with multiple access points. At Slumberland at the River's Edge, visitors appreciate the waterfront location. "We enjoyed swimming, tubing, and even fishing. The breathtaking views and tranquil ambiance made us feel truly connected with nature," notes camper Mayra O.
Fishing: All skill levels welcome: The Beaverkill River offers productive fishing spots near Roscoe Campsites. A visitor shared, "Right on the Beaverkill River, it's quiet, clean, gorgeous, brand new cabins and concrete pads. Fisherman's heaven." Catch-and-release policies apply at most locations.
Family recreation: Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds coordinate seasonal programs. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, a camper mentioned, "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" Swimming pools, mini-golf, and movie nights provide entertainment options during summer months.
What campers like
Lakeside camping options: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers waterfront sites with convenient boat access. One camper reported, "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Damascus area maintain high standards for bathroom facilities. A visitor to Honesdale-Poconos KOA commented, "KOAs are known for being clean and this was no exception. The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless."
Digital detox opportunity: Limited cell service creates a natural technology break. A Slumberland at the River's Edge camper observed, "The lack of phone service was a blessing in disguise, allowing us to disconnect from technology and truly immerse ourselves in nature."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly. At Kittatinny Campground, one camper advised, "Don't cheap out. Get the tubing package as well." However, another noted proximity issues: "The campsites are so close together it was like being packed into a sardine can."
Weekend vs. weekday experience: Crowd levels fluctuate dramatically. A camper at Russell Brook Campsites shared, "Very peaceful. Felt like we had the place to ourselves." Similarly, at Roscoe Campsites, a visitor noted, "Nice place. Only ever been during mid week and the place is empty which is nice."
Primitive vs. developed sites: Tent sites may lack amenities found at RV sites. A camper at Roscoe Campsites observed, "We are tent campers...can't speak to the accommodations for RV/5th-Wheelers or the rentable cabins." Some primitive sites offer larger spaces with better privacy than developed areas.