Tent camping opportunities around Danville, Pennsylvania extend across several valleys and mountain regions with elevations between 500-2,000 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows often reaching 20°F. Stream and creek access varies seasonally, with many primitive sites requiring campers to check road conditions before arrival, particularly in spring when seasonal roads can become muddy.
What to do
Kayaking at Mauch Chunk Lake: The clear waters of Mauch Chunk Lake provide excellent paddling opportunities just 45 miles from Danville. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm... I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes Lisa S. from Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Creek exploration: Many campsites in the state forests offer creek access for swimming during summer months. At Ravensburg, "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," according to laura from Ravensburg State Park Campground.
Scenic hiking: The region offers hiking options from easy to challenging. "The 1000 step trail is fun!" notes Andrew G. about Reeds Gap State Park Campground, which features an easy trail following Honey Creek and offers a geocaching opportunity near the park entrance.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers value the privacy found at smaller campgrounds. At Reeds Gap, visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. "Reeds Gap State Park is everything anyone who really just wants to relax needs. It's only tents and it's dog and family friendly!" shares Kelly C.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "Clean nice sites. Bathhouses were a little far away. Quiet camping and hiking," reports John Z. about Reeds Gap State Park Campground.
River views and sounds: Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center offers both camping and water recreation. "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing," notes Katie S., though she cautions that it's not the most peaceful option as there was "music played late into the night."
First-come sites: Some campgrounds don't require reservations, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips. "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office," shares Cheryl K. about Reeds Gap.
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Some state forest and park access roads can be confusing. For Ravensburg State Park Campground, Sarah C. advises: "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance."
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited or no connectivity. At Reeds Gap, Danielle C. suggests you "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here!"
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds have sites positioned near roads. "The campsites are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally," notes Andrew G. about Ravensburg, while another camper suggests "try to get a spot further away from the road if possible."
Permit systems: Most state forest primitive sites require self-registration. Cheryl K. explains that at Reeds Gap, payment works by "honor system at the park office."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers family-friendly amenities. "The campground was spacious and while it was likely full, it still felt secluded. Beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals," shares Katie S., while Danny M. adds, "Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals."
Flat tent spaces: For easier setup with children, look for level sites. Mackenzie B. notes Mauch Chunk Lake Park "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."
Group camping options: Some parks accommodate family gatherings. Laura from Ravensburg notes, "It's good for large groups (you can get sites in a row) or just you."
Tent pad selection: When camping with larger family tents, consider site layout. Traci F. from Ravensburg State Park Campground explains: "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most state forest campgrounds near Danville lack RV amenities. The tent-focused camping areas in Tiadaghton State Forest and Bald Eagle State Forest provide pit toilets without electric or water hookups at individual sites.
Water access points: While hookups are limited, some campgrounds provide communal water sources. At Ravensburg State Park Campground, Traci F. notes, "There is no electric but there are spots to get water even placed throughout."
Size limitations: Smaller RVs fare better at the region's campgrounds. At Mauch Chunk, Amber M. advises, "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," conditions that would also make larger RV leveling challenging.
Weekend crowding: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Danielle F. warns about Mauch Chunk: "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."
