Northeastern Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains region surrounds Eagles Mere, with elevations ranging from 1,600-2,200 feet creating distinct microclimates. The area experiences cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands, typically 5-10 degrees lower during peak camping season. Several campgrounds near Eagles Mere offer yurt accommodations with wooden platforms that keep campers dry during the region's frequent summer rainfall.
What to do
Waterfall hiking at Ricketts Glen State Park: Explore 22 named waterfalls along the Falls Trail system, a 7.2-mile loop rated as difficult due to steep and slippery sections. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained!" notes Ricketts Glen State Park Campground visitor Anne P.
Fishing at Hills Creek: The 137-acre lake offers year-round fishing opportunities for bass, perch, and trout. "We had our 2 dogs with and they loved it! Great site lakeside. Very dark at night which is great," shares Shirley M. about Hills Creek State Park Campground.
Visit the fire tower: Take a short hike to the historic fire tower for panoramic views of the Pennsylvania wilderness. "Be sure to take a trip to the fire tower and to the falls. There are many different walks with different difficulty which is nice no matter what who you are with," recommends Meag F. about Ricketts Glen State Park.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with mature tree cover and reasonable separation. "The sites are very close to one another. We lucked out in Bermuda Triangle as there was a little more space and we were further away from some of the noise," reports Derek W. about Knoebels Campground.
Yurt camping comfort: Yurts provide a comfortable glamping option near Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania with amenities that tent campers typically don't have. "The modern cabins are available for a week at a time in the summer. We paid for the week but knew we could only stay for 5 nights. We were impressed with the 2 bedroom cabin," says Barbara S. about Hills Creek State Park.
Clean facilities: Visitors frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathhouse was clean but not adequate for 73 sites. The campground was about ¾ full and there was often a wait in the bathroom," notes Lee D. about Ricketts Glen, highlighting both strengths and potential issues during peak times.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from spotty to nonexistent in many campgrounds. "Very little cell reception and only wifi if you pay for it. We had to put our phones and devices down and just relax," explains Tracey about Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground.
Water quality concerns: Water systems at some parks may have seasonal issues. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," reports Lee D. about Ricketts Glen.
Campsite privacy varies: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites than others. "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)," mentions T K. about their experience at Ricketts Glen State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping events: Several campgrounds host special Halloween weekends with decorations and activities. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," shares Gayle B. about Pioneer Campground.
Private bathroom options: Look for campgrounds with individual bathroom units. "I do have to say I love the bath houses here. They are each their own individual rooms split into shower/changing room. I like the privacy and it made it much easier when my daughter was small," explains Gayle B. about Lake Glory Campground.
Kid-friendly water features: Many parks offer swimming areas specifically designed for children. "It turns out the tent site we had was the most wooded and cozy site we have camped in all year. The restrooms were fantastic too, the buildings held two complete rooms with a toilet sink and shower in each," notes Katye M. about Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Uneven campsites: Many RV sites in the area require leveling equipment. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C," explains James S. about Ricketts Glen State Park.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for lakeside sites. "The sites are a bit larger than average and are pretty level, but make sure to bring leveling blocks. The sites themselves are well kept and have a big fire pit and picnic table," recommends Gregory L. about Pioneer Campground.
Dump station considerations: During busy checkout periods, lines can form at dump stations. "The owner John was going around pumping people out Sunday morning when the line to the dump station was long," notes Gregory L., highlighting the helpful service at Pioneer Campground.
