Tent camping near Dushore, Pennsylvania centers around the Endless Mountains region, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences all four seasons distinctly, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Winter camping remains available at select locations but requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Riverside Acres Campground, the Susquehanna River provides excellent angling. "Eagles fish here. You can too. Good beginning or end for a canoe trip," notes reviewer Bruce H., highlighting the 200-meter-wide river frontage that's accessible directly from campsites.
Hiking access: Multiple state parks within 30 minutes of campsites offer trail networks with varying difficulty levels. Oh! Pear Orchards provides a strategic base for outdoor exploration with "campsites located against the creek. Within a half-hour of the campsites are the Merli-Sarnoski Park and the Lackawanna and Salt Springs State Parks--which offer hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities," according to Ashley F.
White water adventures: For more adventurous campers, the region offers seasonal rafting opportunities. "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing," shares Katie S., noting the combination of camping and water activities available at certain locations during warmer months.
What campers like
Privacy and natural settings: The primitive camping options in Loyalsock State Forest offer seclusion that many visitors specifically seek. The lack of development creates a more immersive natural experience, with sites strategically placed to maximize privacy between campers.
Water features: Stream and riverside locations rank highly among camper reviews. Heather T. describes Hillside Campgrounds as "a special place! Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting." The sound of running water enhances the camping experience at creek-side locations.
Fire pit quality: Several campgrounds in the Dushore area feature notably well-designed fire rings. "The best fire pits" appears in multiple reviews, suggesting this practical amenity receives particular attention at certain locations. Dedicated grilling areas at select sites accommodate both cooking and evening campfires.
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Several campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center notes they're open only "during rafting season," requiring advance planning for visitors, especially in shoulder seasons.
Limited connectivity: While some locations offer basic connectivity, most primitive sites have no cell service. Joe M. notes that at one campground, "Wifi and internet coverage is decent," but this represents an exception rather than the norm for most camping options near Dushore.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking during peak season (May-September). The state forest sites have adopted a reservation system for all sites, eliminating the previous first-come, first-served options that were available in past years.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds host events that create livelier atmospheres. Katie S. advises, "if you are looking for a peaceful campground look elsewhere. There was a movie shown at night, as well as music played late into the night." Noise policies vary significantly between locations.
Tips for camping with families
Supply preparation: With limited facilities at most sites, families need comprehensive supply planning. Pack ample drinking water (1 gallon per person per day minimum), as most Loyalsock State Forest sites have no potable water sources.
Navigation challenges: Some camping areas near Dushore have limited signage. Avery R. from Gardner Hill Campground notes, "I happened upon this campground by following the blue tent sign on the highway," suggesting that first-time visitors should download offline maps before arrival.
Cart availability: For walk-in sites, transportation assistance may be available. Heather T. mentions, "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site," reducing the logistical challenges for families with younger children or substantial gear.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most RV-accessible sites near Dushore have no sewer hookups, with limited water and electric connections. RVers must prepare for primitive camping conditions at most locations, including planning for waste management.
Event scheduling: Some campgrounds coordinate special weekend activities. Emma T. reports, "Stayed here for Riverfest and it was great. Bands throughout the night with beer and food," suggesting RVers check event calendars when planning visits to potentially align with or avoid scheduled gatherings.
Hookup availability: RV campers seeking full hookups have limited options within immediate proximity to Dushore. The sites that do offer connections typically don't provide 50-amp service, requiring adapters for larger rigs with higher power requirements.
