Tent campsites near Factoryville, Pennsylvania sit within the Endless Mountains region at elevations ranging from 500 to 2,300 feet. The area contains numerous small streams and tributaries that feed into the Susquehanna River basin. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during day and drop to 55-65°F at night, with higher humidity levels from June through August.
What to do
Paddle boarding on Mauch Chunk Lake: The clear waters at Mauch Chunk Lake Park provide ideal conditions for paddling. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes camper Lisa S.
Whitewater rafting: The Lehigh River offers Class I-III rapids depending on water releases. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center combines camping with rafting trips. "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing," reports Katie S., who adds that the campground features evening entertainment with "a movie shown at night, as well as music played late into the night."
Eagle watching: The broad Susquehanna River provides habitat for bald eagles and other wildlife. At Riverside Acres Campground, camper Bruce H. observed that "the river in front of first row sites is 200 m broad. Eagles fish here. You can too. Good beginning or end for a canoe trip."
What campers like
Fire pits at Manny Gordon Recreation Area: The established fire pits at this Pinchot State Forest location come with existing firewood. "Very open, plenty of space. Most campgrounds have previously stocked wood from other people, makes setting up very convenient," writes Gavin S., though he cautions to "get your spray" as there are "lots of ticks."
Spacious sites at Belden Hill: The campground offers generously sized sites with room for activities. Tim W. notes sites are "level, spacious. Room for pop up canopy and games. Great views of the mts." He describes the campground as having a "very laid back, relaxing vibe."
Off-grid creek-side camping: Walk-in tent sites at Oh! Pear Orchards require some effort but reward campers with proximity to moving water. Heather T. explains, "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, though we did not need that with the cart."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant seasonal changes. Several campgrounds close during winter months, including Belden Hill which operates only "Apr 1 - Oct 30." After storms, conditions can be challenging - Tim W. reported, "we were there after a lot of rain from the hurricane, site was wet but useable."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some locations offer full facilities while others have minimal amenities. At Hillside Campgrounds, no showers or toilets are available according to their amenity list. In contrast, Riverside Acres provides basic facilities where "the bath house facility is an effective combination of old and new, and hot water is plentiful."
Reservation policies differ: Some locations don't accept advance bookings or have inconsistent reservation systems. One camper reported contacting Riverside Acres "6 weeks prior to our intended stay," then calling "to confirm 2 weeks out as instructed" only to find the owner "had no recollection she spoke with us."
Tips for camping with families
Noise levels at campgrounds: Family groups should consider noise tolerance when selecting locations. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Danielle F. reported, "we were surrounded by very loud campers. It was not just 1 group; there were multiple parties making a lot of noise until after midnight. There are supposed to be quiet hours, but they were not enforced."
First-time camper friendly spots: Some locations work particularly well for inexperienced campers. Emma T. shares about Mauch Chunk: "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake."
Nearby attractions for kids: Several campgrounds offer onsite or nearby activities. Jennifer K. notes that near Belden Hill Campgrounds there's a "fantastic animal preserve zoo nearby which is a must visit. Pretty golf course with full bar and food right across the street."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric, water and sewer connections vary significantly between campgrounds. At Belden Hill, reviewers note "good working utilities on nice sites," while Oh! Pear Orchards and Hillside Campgrounds don't offer electric hookups according to their amenity listings.
Internet connectivity: Cell service and WiFi availability differ throughout the region. Jennifer K. reports that Belden Hill provides "full hook ups and wifi but wifi wasn't working too well. Good enough for web surfing on phone but no streaming on TV. Great at&t service."
Level sites for larger rigs: Finding level ground for RVs can be challenging in this mountainous region. Tim W. notes staying at Riverside Acres "in 38ft motorhome" with "pull thru full hookup, level" sites, while Michelle S. mentions Belden Hill has "pull through weekender sites" with views "to die for."
