Promised Land State Park encompasses 3,000 acres in the Pocono Mountains with multiple camping options for equestrian enthusiasts. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet above sea level, creating cool evenings even during summer months. Campers can access multiple trail networks directly from camping areas, with both Lower Lake and Upper Lake providing recreation opportunities.
What to do
Kayaking on Keen Lake: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers boating opportunities on a substantial private lake. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake," reports Shannon C., who stayed for five nights.
Hiking around Promised Land: Pickerel Point Campground features marked trails with varying difficulty levels. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," notes Alaina Z., who stayed in site 157. The nearby Little Falls Trail provides another option for easy day hiking from camp.
Fishing opportunities: Lakefront camping sites at Promised Land State Park allow direct fishing access. "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch," shares Shannon C. about fishing at Keen Lake. Other nearby lakes and ponds offer similar fishing opportunities with Pennsylvania fishing licenses required.
What campers like
Lake views: Many campers appreciate waterfront sites at Pickerel Point Campground. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper," writes Kelly F. Sites on Pickerel Point offer particularly scenic vistas across the lake.
Clean facilities: The maintained bathroom facilities receive consistent positive mentions. "Bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers," notes Kelly F. about Pickerel Point facilities. The more recently renovated areas feature modern amenities with regular maintenance.
Serene environment: Despite proximity to developed areas, the parks maintain a peaceful atmosphere. "Not crowded this time of year, serene, and perfect weather," reports Angie G. about the Beechwood Area at Lower Lake Campground, who collected their own firewood during their stay.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities operate on limited schedules. "This park is open year round. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers," explains Mara S. about winter camping at Pickerel Point, also noting limited cell reception with Verizon.
Site selection matters: Campsite characteristics vary significantly across the parks. "Get a site on the lake. You won't have a ton of privacy but you'll have space for your stuff," advises Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort Campground. At Pickerel Point, "chunky bluestone gravel on the sites, so bring a sleeping pad!" warns Alaina Z.
Alternative equestrian options: Beyond Hemlock Hill, riders may consider Stokes State Forest across the border in New Jersey, approximately 40 miles from Damascus. The park offers extensive trail networks with varied terrain and separate camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Families appreciate the organized recreation options. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," shares Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort. During peak season, check with campground offices for scheduled events and children's programs.
Site proximity: Consider location within larger campgrounds. "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," suggests Emily Z. about Lackawanna State Park Campground, located approximately 20 miles from Damascus.
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy spotting local fauna. One camper at Stokes State Forest mentions, "We stayed on a beautiful mossy bank, next to a river and a lake... areas with waterfalls and great views were easily accessible." These natural features provide educational opportunities for young campers.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. "We were on the far side of the lake which is not really within walking distance of the beach, pool and store. We knew this going in and were totally OK with it," explains Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort, noting they simply drove to amenities.
Hookup reliability: Some older campgrounds may have electrical limitations. At Lackawanna State Park, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," cautions David.
RV-friendly horse camping: For equestrian campers with larger rigs, Hemlock Hill Equestrian Area in Promised Land State Park offers designated spaces for horse trailers with appropriate separation from standard camping areas. "I stayed at the Beechwood location at the Promised Land state park... The RV pads were spaced out perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," reports Maze M.
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