Ricketts Glen State Park Campground delivers traditional, straightforward camping with spacious sites and basic amenities within minutes of the park's famous waterfall trail system. The campground sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation in Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains region, where summer temperatures typically range 70-85°F during daytime hours. Multiple camping loops accommodate different preferences, with some sites offering more seclusion than others depending on seasonal occupancy.
What to do
Waterfall hiking options: The Falls Trail system at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground showcases 22 named waterfalls with several difficulty options. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained," notes Anne P. Hikers should wear proper footwear with good traction, especially when trails are wet.
Kayaking and fishing: Lake Jean offers multiple access points for kayaking and fishing, with the campground providing convenient water entry locations. "Lake Jean is also right there for boating and recreation," explains Meag F., who recommends exploring "interesting rock formations most likely due to weathering" visible from the water. Campers should check Pennsylvania fishing regulations before arrival.
Boulder field exploration: Hickory Run State Park Campground features an unusual geological formation worth visiting. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected," writes Amber A. The field contains thousands of large boulders across several acres, requiring careful footing but offering unique photo opportunities.
What campers like
Waterfall accessibility: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen receives high marks for its maintained paths and dramatic cascades. "Trails & waterfalls can't be beating. Definitely the best," says Brian H. Experienced hikers recommend starting early morning to avoid crowds and allowing 3-4 hours to complete the main loop at a comfortable pace.
Secluded tent sites: Red Rock Mountain Campground offers primitive camping options with more privacy than standard sites. "We camped at Red Rock as couples. We stayed in primitive tent sites which you had to hike into. They were very private," shares Samantha M. These sites require carrying gear a short distance but reward with greater seclusion.
Late season camping: Lackawanna State Park Campground provides year-round options for glamping near Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania. "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," reports Shirley M. Fall camping offers colorful foliage with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
What you should know
Site spacing variations: Campgrounds in the region have inconsistent site spacing. "The campground is a bit crowded during peak season without much privacy," says Vika Z. about Ricketts Glen. Sites near facilities often have more foot traffic, so request locations farther from bathhouses if privacy matters.
Bear precautions required: The entire region has active black bear populations requiring proper food storage. "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," advises Erik M. from his experience at Tobyhanna State Park Campground. Rangers actively enforce food storage regulations with potential fines for non-compliance.
Water conditions vary: Water access and quality fluctuates seasonally across campgrounds. One Ricketts Glen visitor reported that "the water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered." Always check current water status before arrival and bring backup supplies during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween camping events: Pioneer Campground offers family-friendly seasonal activities. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," recommends Gayle B., who returns for Halloween events. These themed weekends typically run late September through October with advance reservations required.
Playgrounds and recreation fields: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. Hickory Run visitor Jennifer D. notes, "Nice and clean and lots of trails. Not much of a playground. All in all a pretty Park." Consider bringing portable games and activities for younger children at campgrounds with limited play equipment.
Amusement park camping: Knoebels Campground combines camping with direct amusement park access. "Connected to the park, a great way to visit! If you're an early to bed kinda person it'll be tough, the roller coasters are right there!" explains Joe B. The park offers free admission with pay-per-ride options, making it budget-friendly for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full-hookup glamping opportunities near Hunlock Creek are limited at state parks. James S. from Ricketts Glen notes, "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." Arrive with fresh water tanks filled during peak summer months.
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the mountainous terrain require proper leveling equipment. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right," shares Angie G. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. Pack extra leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs.
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds in the region close for winter. Hickory Run operates "2nd Fri April to 3rd Sun October" with similar schedules at other parks. Year-round glamping near Hunlock Creek, Pennsylvania requires careful planning, with only select private campgrounds remaining open through winter months.
