Tent camping options near Hartleton, Pennsylvania offer diverse backcountry experiences throughout the dense forests of central Pennsylvania. State forest camping opportunities range from primitive sites with minimal amenities to more established campgrounds with basic facilities. Most locations sit at elevations between 1,200-1,800 feet, contributing to cooler overnight temperatures even during summer months and frequent morning fog conditions in valley areas.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Ravensburg State Park Campground, hiking trails follow the water with swimming opportunities. "We've camped here couple times, and we just keep coming back. There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," notes camper Laura.
Digital detox: Reeds Gap State Park Campground provides a genuine disconnect from technology. A camper shares, "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites. We got a nice one tucked back in the trees."
Scenic overlook viewing: Near Hartleton, Shikellamy State Park offers stunning vistas rather than overnight facilities. "Had a great time walking the trails and enjoying a picnic at the cliff-side pavilion," reports visitor Beth L., making it a worthwhile day trip from your camping base.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the natural buffers at Hickernell Roadside Campsites in Bald Eagle State Forest. Ravensburg also gets high marks for site separation: "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times."
Clean facilities: Many campers note the well-maintained bathrooms. At Reeds Gap, one visitor specifically mentioned the "super clean, eco-shower. Yep that's right, the shower! Timed water, lights (solar?)etc. are spot on for me!"
Self-registration convenience: East Run Road Site and other roadside campsites in Tiadaghton State Forest use simple registration systems. At Ravensburg, a camper noted: "Pay by honor system at the park office. Campground was quiet and lovely. Only 14 sites."
What you should know
Limited facilities at forest sites: Most roadside campsites in state forests have fire rings and tent pads but lack water sources or bathroom facilities. State park campgrounds offer more amenities.
Seasonal closures: Most tent camping near Hartleton operates seasonally. A visitor to Cove Road Site found sites closed in early spring due to wet conditions.
Directional challenges: Several campers mention navigation issues. One Ravensburg visitor advised: "Use lat and long coordinates for directions or you will be in the wrong spot" while another warned: "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Reeds Gap features facilities specifically for children. As one camper notes, "It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that runs through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!"
Site selection for tent size: Families with larger tents should consider site dimensions. At Ravensburg, one visitor advised: "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
Water noise consideration: Walters Road Site and other creek-side locations may present sleep challenges for light sleepers. A Ravensburg camper warned: "If you camp on the sites by the river, be prepared for lots of noise from the rapids. It had been raining quite heavily all day, so this may have impacted the volume levels."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most camping options near Hartleton are tent-focused with limited RV accessibility. Reeds Gap specifically advertises as tent-only camping with no accommodations for large vehicles.
Road access concerns: Steep mountain roads can challenge RV drivers. One camper at Ravensburg observed: "You will be driving down into the valley, which can feel very steep at times."
Seasonal road conditions: Spring and fall camping trips may encounter muddy or temporarily closed forest roads. Check with forest district offices before traveling with larger vehicles.
