Primitive camping options surround the Fountain Hill area of Pennsylvania, with locations along the Appalachian Trail offering both solitude and accessibility. Located within 20 miles of Fountain Hill, these campsites range from ridge-top settings with valley views to lakeside spots at established parks. The region's moderate temperatures from April through October make tent camping near Fountain Hill, Pennsylvania particularly appealing during summer months when evening temperatures typically stay above 50°F.
What to do
Water activities on Round Valley Reservoir: At Round Valley State Park Campground in nearby Lebanon, NJ, the 2,350-acre reservoir offers swimming, kayaking, and fishing. According to camper James R., "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean." The reservoir is stocked with trout and provides paddling opportunities in a pristine setting.
Hiking the Lehigh Gap trails: The trail system near Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground offers varying difficulty levels for day hikes. One camper noted it's "the closest primitive campsite to the Lehigh Gap trailhead on the Appalachian trail" with "small creeks along the trail coming up the hill" where hikers can fill water bottles.
Disc golf and fishing: Green Lane Park features a "phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing" according to Benjamin C. The park's multiple recreational areas make it a versatile destination for campers looking to supplement their tent camping with organized outdoor activities.
What campers like
Ridgeline camping with panoramic views: Tent sites at AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap receive high praise for their natural setting. Asher K. describes the area as "surrounded by a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail," adding that "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."
Stone amenities at primitive sites: Many AT campsites feature camper-built stone amenities. At AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap, "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," reports Asher K., who also encountered "a flock of wild turkeys" during their stay.
Lake access from campsites: At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Lisa S. appreciates that "you can get sites right on the water that are nice size" and "can launch my paddle board from my site and the water is so clean and clear." The lake offers direct water access, making it convenient for water sports enthusiasts.
What you should know
Trail difficulty to primitive sites: Many campsites require significant hiking effort. At Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite, campers find "a very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents." However, Asher K. warns the site "is a little removed from the trail so make sure to keep an eye out for it."
Water sources are limited: Most primitive sites lack potable water. When camping at AT Overlook Campground, "be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge." Plan to carry all necessary water or bring filtration for creek water.
Weather protection considerations: Some sites offer better weather protection than others. The pine forest at AT Group Campsite "provides a nice cover to make this a well-protected site in case of bad weather," while ridge sites are more exposed to wind and storms.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds for amenities: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers family-friendly facilities including "clean bathrooms" and "access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby," making it what Mackenzie B. calls "a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before." Its flat tent spaces and nearby town amenities make it ideal for families new to camping.
Look for lake beaches for swimming: Parks with dedicated swimming areas provide safer water access for children. Katie S. mentions Mauch Chunk Lake has a "beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals" with "much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by."
Consider site privacy factors: When camping with children, site spacing matters. At Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park, Tiffany B. notes the "campground is as basic as they get. Sites are close to each other with absolutely no privacy," though "bathrooms are nice and clean with plenty of them around the park."
Tips from RVers
Primitive options require alternative transportation: For RVers wanting to access backcountry sites, boat access may be easiest. At Round Valley Recreation Area, Vincent R. recommends "paddling today" as many sites are only accessible by "boat-in" or lengthy hikes. James R. confirms "you can either boat in or hike in. The hike is a 3 mile minimum 6 max."
RV-friendly campgrounds are limited: Most primitive camping near Fountain Hill suits tent campers rather than RVs. Stuart K. advises that at Round Valley, "if you're looking to camp here, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear."
