Camping options near Jermyn, Pennsylvania sit in the northeastern Pocono foothills, typically at elevations between 1,200-1,600 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows often reaching 20-30°F. Most campsites near Jermyn have access to lakes or waterways with shoreline camping available at several locations during the primary camping season.
What to do
Water recreation opportunities: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers multiple water activities including paddle boats, rowboats, and a swimming pool. "This family run Campground is beautiful and clean... There are plenty of things to do; paddle boats, row boats, swimming pool, snack bar/ campstore, activities, etc," notes Charlotte D. The 90-acre lake provides ample space for water sports.
Hiking trails: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers 44 miles of trails ranging from easy to difficult. "Many hiking trails (44 miles of trails). They are rated from easy to difficult. 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," shares Shirley M. The park also features a unique boulder field accessible via a scenic drive.
Fishing: Tobyhanna State Park Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities in its reservoir. "The lake is very nice a little copper kind of like iced tea color but was very nice," reports Erik M. Fishing is allowed from both shore and boats, with typical catches including panfish and bass.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Pickerel Point Campground at Promised Land State Park receives high marks for its lakeside campsites. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," reports Kelly F. Many sites have direct lake access for kayaking and swimming.
Clean facilities: Clayton Park RV Escape maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "A well run, well staffed, facilities are excellent. Will return," states Robert H. Many reviewers specifically mention the campground's attention to cleanliness and maintenance standards across all facilities.
Quiet atmosphere: Valley View Farm and Campground offers a peaceful camping experience away from crowds. "Quiet and peaceful at night and the other campers were very friendly. There is not one negative thing I can say," shares Dawn C. The campground's location north of Jermyn provides a more secluded experience than parks closer to major roads.
What you should know
Bear activity: Multiple campgrounds in the region report bear sightings and have specific food storage requirements. "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," reports Erik M. from Tobyhanna State Park. Always secure food items in vehicles when not at your campsite.
Coin-operated showers: Some campgrounds charge for shower use. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, "The showers are coin operated," notes Emily Z. Bring quarters if staying at campgrounds with this system.
Seasonal variations: Most campsites near Jermyn operate from mid-April through mid-October, with limited winter options. Frances Slocum State Park Campground receives praise for its off-season amenities: "This campground is beautiful and has great cell service (Verizon)," mentions Erin M., though she warns, "Bath houses are okay, showers are button showers and are freezing come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Cherry Ridge Campsites and Lodging offers various activities for children. "Multi site facility with many activities. Campfires permitted, fishing, row boat rental, bath house, dance hall," notes Beverly J. The campground also serves meals on weekends: "Country kitchen has breakfast and lunch on Saturday, breakfast only on Sunday."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for younger children. At Hickory Run State Park, "There is a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," shares Shirley M.
Swimming options: Most campgrounds with lakes offer swimming areas, but some restrict swimming and instead provide pools. At Frances Slocum State Park, one camper notes: "The park is nice and very clean. There is plenty to do with a pool, hiking trails, fishing, and a nice lake with boat rental."
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality: Honesdale - Poconos KOA offers reliable hookups for RVs of all sizes. "The KOA campgrounds are always extremely well maintained with all the amenities we want. Love the KOA patio sites, worth the few extra dollars," recommends Rebecca S. The campground has year-round availability, unusual for this region.
Site selection: When booking at Keen Lake, "Get a site on the lake. You won't have a ton of privacy but you'll have space for your stuff," advises Emily Z. She also suggests, "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side w/ the beach and pool."
Electrical concerns: Some older campgrounds have electrical limitations. At Lackawanna State Park, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David from his experience.
