Tent camping near Entriken, Pennsylvania offers access to the Appalachian highlands with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Fall brings vibrant foliage from late September through mid-October, particularly visible from higher elevation campsites.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Clover Creek offers quality fishing within walking distance of Long Acres campground. According to one camper, "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality. Close access to state game lands and nearby hiking trails and fishing spots!"
Night sky photography: STAR LEE FARM provides optimal conditions for astrophotography with minimal light pollution. A visitor reports, "Place was very pretty and secluded... There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures, lots of hiking and if you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property."
Trail exploration: Reeds Gap State Park offers hiking trails along Honey Creek with native and stocked trout. "There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids," shares one camper. The park maintains easy-access trails suitable for beginners and families.
What campers like
Quiet environment: Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground provides exceptional isolation even during summer months. "I arrived on a Wednesday evening. I had my pick of campsites, because I was the only person there!" notes one visitor about this tent-only destination.
Tech disconnect: Reeds Gap State Park forces digital detox with its lack of connectivity. As one camper advises: "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites. We got a nice one tucked back in the trees."
Unique boat-in access: Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground offers the region's only boat-accessible tent sites. "This campground is accessed by boat only. But it has a maintenance road and is patrolled by college kids with summer jobs. Follow the rules and you will have a wonderful time," reports a regular visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Water access varies significantly across the best tent camping near Entriken, Pennsylvania. At Penn Roosevelt, "The water was off, but I was prepared to wilderness camp later in my trip so, that was no big deal," notes a camper who visited during shoulder season.
Bathroom distance considerations: Some campgrounds feature centralized facilities that may require planning. At Reeds Gap, "Bathhouses were a little far away. Quite camping and hiking," mentions one visitor who still rated the experience highly despite this limitation.
Limited supplies nearby: Most sites require bringing all necessities. As one Penn Roosevelt camper advises: "It's a bit primitive having only bathrooms and water in several spots in the campground. It's a beautiful natural area and some sites are very private. Make sure you bring everything you need as there isn't a store nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap provides dedicated play structures adjacent to camping areas. "This campground is beautiful! It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" explains one family camper.
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate family pets with varying restrictions. One visitor to Reeds Gap notes, "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!"
Site selection strategy: When camping with children, location matters. "Get a site on the outside towards the water. They are spaced out and peaceful. Has restrooms (no shower), picnic table, and fire pit at each site. Short walk to creek and beautiful pond," recommends a Penn Roosevelt State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access limitations: Larger vehicles face significant access challenges at Penn Roosevelt. One camper warns: "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Wake zone considerations: Boaters camping at Nancy's should be prepared for water traffic. "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance and are in a wake zone," explains a regular visitor.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds experience periodic disruptions. At Nancy's Boat To Shore, "Some weekend get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down," advises a camper who still enjoyed their stay despite occasional noise.
