Tent camping near Blakeslee, Pennsylvania centers around the Pocono Mountains region, with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 2,300 feet providing varied camping microclimates. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 55-65°F at night, creating comfortable camping conditions. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that frequently drop below freezing, with potential for significant snowfall from December through March.
What to do
Whitewater rafting: 10 minutes from campsites. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center offers organized rafting trips on the Lehigh River. One camper noted, "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing. The campground is definitely great for Girl Scout or school groups."
Paddleboarding on calm lakes: Access from shoreline sites. Mauch Chunk Lake provides clear, clean water ideal for paddleboards. A regular visitor shared, "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."
Hiking the Appalachian Trail sections: Multiple access points. The AT near Lehigh Gap offers varied terrain with established campsites along the route. According to a hiker, "Sitting up on the mountain in this area is a very peaceful experience as you can hear the wind blowing through the trees while watching the ferns sway back and forth."
What campers like
Pine forest seclusion: Natural sound dampening. AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap features a pine needle floor that creates natural padding for tents. A backpacker described it as "a nice quiet and secluded spot" with "a bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."
Riverside accessibility: Convenient for water activities. Riverview Park Campground provides direct access to the Lehigh River with sites positioned along the shoreline. A reviewer mentioned, "This is the perfect place for camping if you are adventuring out on the Lehigh River and want to get an early start or stay the night. The sites are each tent only and located right along the river."
Spacious group sites: Room for multiple tents. Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite accommodates larger parties with spread-out tent pads. One camper observed, "A very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group."
What you should know
Water access varies dramatically: Plan accordingly. Many backcountry sites require bringing all water. At George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter, a camper noted, "There is also a spring nearby for filling up water," while at ridge sites, hikers must "make sure to fill up before coming up the mountain."
Fire rings often pre-established: May require maintenance. Most primitive sites feature stone fire rings built by previous campers. At the AT Overlook Campground, "Previous campers have also been kind enough to build up a sizable stone fire ring and construct a stone chair for enjoying the fire and view."
Weekday vs. weekend experience: Significant differences in crowd levels. Mauch Chunk Lake Park sees heavy weekend use. A camper shared, "If you go during the week, it's quite calm," while another warned about weekends: "We visited in the summer on a weekend when it was full. The campsites are too close to each other and we were surrounded by very loud campers."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Look for flat terrain and amenities. Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers good introduction sites for new campers. A reviewer recommended, "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby."
Activities for kids: Structured recreation areas. Many campgrounds offer designated play zones. As one family noted at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, "The campgrounds were nice and there was a lot to do. Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals."
Site selection considerations: Avoid rocky or rooted areas with children. When tent camping with kids, inspect site conditions. A camper at Mauch Chunk warned, "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Research before arrival. While many campgrounds accommodate tents primarily, Manny Gordon Recreation Area Campground offers electric hookups for RVs, though water and sewer connections may be limited.
Site leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks. The varied terrain throughout Pocono Mountains campgrounds requires proper leveling equipment for comfortable RV setup.
Event camping options: Seasonal gatherings available. Some campgrounds host special events with camping included. At Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center, a visitor shared, "Stayed here for Riverfest and it was great. Bands throughout the night with beer and food. Nice showers."
