Northeastern Pennsylvania camping options range from mountain settings to creek-adjacent spots, with elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet throughout the region. Fleetville sits at the edge of the Endless Mountains region where summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity. Most campgrounds in the area maintain open seasons from April through October, closing during winter months due to freezing temperatures.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers access to 22 named waterfalls in a single trail system. "The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked," notes Lee D.
Boat rentals: Non-motorized craft available at Frances Slocum State Park for exploring the 165-acre lake. "A nice lake where you can rent boats or tie up your own right on the lake near the campground. Just the right size lake for kayaking," explains Cynthia P. The lake prohibits gasoline motors, creating a quiet environment for paddling.
Ice skating: Winter recreation available at Lackawanna State Park during colder months when other activities are limited. During winter, the park maintains an ice rink with warming house for visitors. The park closes most camping facilities in October but maintains winter recreation options throughout the off-season.
What campers like
Shaded camping sites: Lackawanna State Park Campground provides wooded sites with natural cooling. "Our site and the others we saw were nicely shaded. Look forward to visiting again in the sun for a longer period," shares Amy V. The mature tree canopy helps moderate summer temperatures and creates visual separation between sites.
Waterfront tent sites: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Fleetville offer creek or lakeside options. "The tent sites are right on the creek. The grounds, the little store/coffee shop and the facilities were pristine," states Louis P. about Cozy Creek Family Campground. These waterfront sites provide natural temperature control and water access.
Varied accommodation options: From basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups. "Real Quiet in Early Spring. Campground has cabins and yurts, pull in sites for RV's and strictly walk in tent sites. There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool," notes David G. about his experience at Lackawanna State Park. Most dog friendly camping options near Fleetville include multiple accommodation types.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Food storage protocols strictly enforced at many area campgrounds. "Be aware that this area has a high bear population and all campers are required to keep food items in their vehicles or trailers when not at the site," explains Shirley M. at Hickory Run State Park Campground. Rangers may issue citations for improper food storage.
Seasonal water issues: Some parks experience water quality concerns during certain periods. "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. Always check with park offices before arrival about current water conditions.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. "The road in (Vacation lane) is dirt, rough and narrow. There is presently no gate as well so the public can just drive in," notes April L. about her stay at Cozy Creek. Four-wheel drive vehicles not typically required but caution advised during wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Highland Campgrounds offers vintage play equipment. "Great prices and deals. Office is clean and a combined country store with fresh produce in the outdoor fridge and bug spray and essentials in the office area. Rec room and bathrooms are older, but vintage. Playground is also older but also gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin," describes Jennifer R.
Educational programming: Environmental education centers operate at several parks during peak season. "This is an amazing state park that has something for everyone. There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R. Programs typically run weekends during summer months and require no advance registration.
Pool facilities: Swimming alternatives to natural water bodies with lifeguards often present. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," says Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort Campground. Pool hours typically run 10am-6pm during summer months with brief afternoon breaks for maintenance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose locations based on planned activities and mobility needs. "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," advises Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort. Many campgrounds cover extensive acreage, making site selection important for accessibility.
Hookup reliability: Older electrical systems may have limitations at some parks. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," notes David about Lackawanna State Park. Bring adapters and surge protectors when visiting older established campgrounds.
Site leveling requirements: Frances Slocum State Park Campground sites may require adjustments. "The site we stayed on was a swamp! It was terrible, I called the park office and they assured me the site was fine for tents it was NOT. Plenty of other great sites but several butt up against standing water which is nasty," reports Erin M. Leveling blocks recommended for most area campgrounds.
Ranger
