Tuscarora State Park Campground offers primitive camping for those seeking solitude in the Pennsylvania mountains. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds near Freeland operate from April through October, with a few locations providing year-round access in designated areas.
What to do
Explore unique boulder formations: Hickory Run State Park Campground features the unusual Boulder Field that draws many visitors. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," notes Amber A.
Visit historical Jim Thorpe: The town near Jim Thorpe Camping Resort offers cultural attractions just minutes from camp. "You are 5 minutes from the wonderful town of Jim Thrope. Can't say the campground offers too much other than the basic campground experience. Though if coupled that with the opportunity to experience Jim Thrope, it sets the Jim Thrope Camping Resort apart," writes Dave R.
Waterfall hiking: The region features numerous cascades accessible via trails. "We found the 2 trails we hiked - Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails - where were rated 'more difficult' were not bad to hike at all. We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls," shares Shirley M.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: Lakewood Park Campground provides lake access with designated fishing areas. "The lake is was nice and had a small dock perfect for fishing. The site was clean and easy to pull into," reports Scott H.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around campgrounds host diverse animal species. "We saw deer daily. There are 3 resident geese who wander around near the creek and lakes," states Becca U. from Moyer's Grove Campground.
Off-season tranquility: Locust Lake State Park Campground offers quieter camping outside peak summer months. "Its been 15 years since I've been there, but it was just as I remembered. Sites were a little small and rocky / rooty, but we made it work. Definitely go in the fall to soak up all the colors!" advises Joe F.
What you should know
Bear activity: Food storage protocols are strictly enforced in the region. "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," warns Shirley M.
Variable bathroom facilities: Campground restrooms range from rustic to modern. "Bath houses in this loop are non-flush/pit toilets. However, the other camping loops had shower houses and flush toilet restrooms," notes one camper about Hickory Run.
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be inconsistent throughout the region. "Be advised that there was no cell service or internet for AT&T users. (Verizon did have some service)," mentions Becca U. at Moyer's Grove Campground.
Water quality considerations: Some parks periodically test water supplies. "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.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Frances Slocum State Park Campground offers water recreation for all ages. "The park has great hiking spots, a local pool, and a lake that you can rent boats or kayak on!" recommends Lexi.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds include play areas for children. "There was a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," observes Shirley M. about Hickory Run.
Flexible accommodations: Some parks provide alternatives to traditional tent camping. "Yurts have 2 sets of bunk beds with one set having full size mattress on bottom. Yurts have heat and fans. Full size refrigerator, stove and microwave," details Mandy F. about Tuscarora State Park.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer interactive learning experiences. "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park," shares Shayna about Hickory Run.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground provides electrical connections at select sites. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C," shares James S.
Site spacing and accessibility: Campground layouts vary significantly across the region. "The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade," explains a camper about their pet-friendly camping experience near Freeland, Pennsylvania.
Water hose requirements: Some sites have distant water sources. "Make sure you have a LONG water hose. We actually had to buy a 50 foot hose in the camp store to accommodate the distance to the spigot," advises Becca U.
Dump station access: Clean-out facilities may be limited. "There are no hookups at all in the park... Dump station had easy access and bathrooms, weren't great but wasn't the worst I've seen either," notes Jackie F. about Frances Slocum State Park.
Scout
