Dispersed camping options dot the landscape around Hawley, Pennsylvania, a region characterized by the rolling Pocono Mountains with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. Summers typically see temperatures between 70-85°F with cooling evening temperatures in the 50s, while spring and fall camping experiences frequent rainfall. Lakeside camping opportunities predominate in this region known for its glacial lakes and dense woodlands.
What to do
Fishing access: Delaware River offers excellent angling opportunities near Soaring Eagle Campground. "Nice campground right on the Delaware river great for fisherman, hikers also great for tubing down the Delaware or canoeing," notes one visitor.
Outdoor recreation: Multi-lake exploration provides varied water activities within a short drive. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake."
Hiking trails: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist on paths ranging from beginner to intermediate difficulty. "Nice trails leading out our door," mentions a camper about the wooded areas at Thousand Trails Timothy North, adding that despite the campground's condition, the natural surroundings provided enjoyable exploration.
What campers like
Spacious riverside sites: Campers appreciate the generously sized waterfront camping areas. "The sites are larger than most campgrounds and well spaced out. I have been there on busy holiday weekends where it was full but still peaceful and private," noted a visitor at Soaring Eagle Campground.
Lake swimming options: Multiple water access points for cooling off during summer months. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," stated one camper about Keen Lake Resort, highlighting the dual swimming options available.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive consistent praise. One reviewer at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area remarked, "Bathrooms were clean and water was hot in the shower," demonstrating the park's commitment to maintenance.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring camping often encounters significant rainfall. A camper at Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area reported they "went tent camping for 3 nights... Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before."
Grocery access limitations: Many campgrounds sit distant from major shopping. "Groceries and Home Depot close buy if you need to restock," notes a visitor to Tri-State RV Park, one of the few campgrounds mentioning nearby provisioning options.
Cell service variability: Connectivity depends heavily on location and carrier. "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity," reported a camper at Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South.
Reservation requirements: Holiday weekends book far in advance. "It was May and an extremely cool, rainy weekend, so we didn't get to do much in the area, but I would definitely recommend it," shared a visitor regarding availability at Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Look for campgrounds with structured programs. One reviewer at Keen Lake Resort Campground noted, "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Kid-friendly water safety: Choose locations with designated swimming areas. A camper mentioned Keen Lake Resort has "a beach for swimming with your dogs," indicating separate areas for different activities.
Playground access: On-site play structures provide entertainment between outdoor adventures. At Mountain Top RV Park, "They have a small playground that would be better suited for older children, and there's also a nice lounge room with games, a pool table, a TV and puzzles/board games."
Rainy day options: Indoor recreation spaces offer weather alternatives. "The rec room was cool," noted a camper at Keen Lake Resort, highlighting indoor options for inclement weather situations common in the Poconos.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Prioritize level sites away from main roads. At Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area, a visitor noted, "Short walk to bathrooms, showers and lake. Though had to drive to park and beaches."
Water pressure awareness: Bring regulators for campgrounds with high PSI. A camper at Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South warned, "Best water pressure I have seen on the east coast, unregulated it's over 80 psi."
Internet connectivity solutions: Position for satellite reception where possible. "Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity," shared an RVer staying at Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South, highlighting the challenge of maintaining connections in wooded areas.
