Honesdale, Pennsylvania sits at 950 feet elevation in the Upper Delaware River Valley, known for its rolling hills and deciduous forests. The area features a humid continental climate with distinct seasons, making late spring through early fall the prime camping season. Campgrounds near Honesdale offer access to numerous waterways including the Delaware River and several spring-fed lakes.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: Keen Lake Resort Campground features a 90-acre spring-fed lake where visitors can rent boats directly on property. "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. It was awesome," notes a camper.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Mocatek Campground provides shore fishing access and allows RC boats on their lake. According to one visitor: "Wake up to morning coffee and enjoy seeing the deer in the Campground as well as other wildlife... rent a rowboat for some fishing on the lake. Fishing from shore and RC boats are also permitted."
Hiking trails: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers multiple trail options for all skill levels. "We like the one right along the lake," shares one visitor. Another reports: "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Honesdale - Poconos KOA maintains their washrooms regularly. "The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless. The staff was incredible. So friendly and helpful," explains a visitor. Their family bathrooms provide additional privacy for guests with children.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Valley View Farm and Campground creates a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages. As one camper reports: "The owners are very nice and helpful. Very clean sites and bathrooms. Quiet and peaceful at night and the other campers were very friendly."
Spacious campsites: Secluded Acres Campground lives up to its name with well-separated sites. "This is honestly the best campground we have ever been to!! We loved it so much we went back again the next week even though it's two hours away. Such wonderful rustic sites that are absolutely secluded!!"
What you should know
Bear activity: Tobyhanna State Park has regular wildlife sightings. "Just stayed 2 nights with my 7 yrs. old daughter we had a blast. Everyone was very nice camp host and DCNR were very helpful. We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent."
Limited amenities: Some primitive camping areas have fewer facilities. At Secluded Acres Campground, "The site itself isn't bad, a lot of woods to tuck into if you camp rite. The tent pad and fire pit area is right next to the road so it almost feels like your campsite is open to passerbys."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from mid-April through mid-October due to Pennsylvania's winter conditions. At Keen Lake, campers report excellent summer programming: "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Honesdale Poconos KOA offers structured entertainment for children. "Activities for the kids like movies (it was Moana), a pool, mini golf and a bounce area. We had a fantastic first camping experience for the kids (and dogs)," shares one family.
Swimming options: Ponderosa Pines Campground provides water recreation in a peaceful setting. "Well kept and peaceful. They have some entertainment, but nothing rowdy," notes a visitor. Several campgrounds offer both lake swimming and pool facilities.
Pet-friendly sites: Keen Lake Resort accommodates families traveling with pets. "They have a beach for swimming with your dogs," mentions one camper, while another notes, "The security is great and patrol to make sure quiet hours are quiet to be courteous to other campers that want quiet time."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, experienced RVers recommend specific locations. "Get a site on the lake. You won't have a ton of privacy but you'll have space for your stuff. If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool."
Hookup considerations: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers various utility options. "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers," reports one RVer. Another mentions, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Supply availability: For glamping near Honesdale, Pennsylvania, the on-site stores provide essentials. "The store has a huge selection of necessities, so no need to worry about forgetting things," notes one visitor to Keen Lake, reducing the need for trips into town during your upscale outdoor stay.
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