The terrain surrounding Jermyn, Pennsylvania features forests and rolling hills in the northeastern part of the state, where elevation ranges from 1,400 to 1,700 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with mild summers averaging 75-80°F and winters dropping to 20-30°F. Camping opportunities in this area often provide access to both woodland environments and water features including streams, rivers, and small lakes.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, visitors can enjoy trails that connect to nearby natural features. A visitor mentioned, "There's much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by." The park is approximately 60 miles from Jermyn with connections to additional outdoor recreation.
Paddling opportunities: The waterways around Jermyn offer excellent canoeing and kayaking. Near Namanock Island, a camper reported, "Did a solo trip, paid 20 for day and overnight parking at Milford beach. Paddle about 4 miles to the site 12, the first site on the right side of nomanock island." The paddling routes offer wildlife viewing with "tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!"
Fishing access: Local streams and lakes provide fishing opportunities throughout the camping season. One camper at Namanock Island noted, "The fishing here is decent, but it's a shallow part of the river so in the summer months the fish seek deeper waters." Most accessible fishing spots require no special permits beyond a standard Pennsylvania fishing license.
What campers like
Natural isolation: Many campers appreciate the remote feel of sites near Jermyn. At Hillside Campgrounds, a visitor noted the property offers "a great place to go hang out for a weekend" with "decent" wifi and internet coverage, which provides connectivity while still feeling removed from urban areas.
Water features: The best tent camping near Jermyn, Pennsylvania often includes stream or river access. One camper at Namanock Island shared that "camping on an island is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else" and that "Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness."
Spaciousness: Many tent sites in the region provide ample room. At Manny Gordon Recreation Area, a visitor noted sites are "very open, plenty of space" and that "most campgrounds have previously stocked wood from other people, makes setting up very convenient."
What you should know
Bug preparation: Insects can be prevalent in this forested region. A camper at Namanock Island warned about it being a "very buggy spot, LOTS of centipedes and other creatures at night, so bring a chair instead of sitting on the bench or log." At Manny Gordon Recreation Area, a visitor recommended you bring "tick spray" due to the natural forest setting.
Fire regulations: While most sites allow fires in designated rings, some have specific policies. At Second District Brew Farm, firewood is provided, but campers should always check current fire restrictions, especially during dry summer months when temporary bans may be enforced.
Bathroom facilities: Toilet options vary significantly among tent camping sites near Jermyn. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, a visitor reported "bathrooms were decently clean" while primitive sites like those at Namanock Island offer only "a privy style toilet a short distance in the woods behind your site."
Site booking: During peak season (May-September), securing tent sites requires advance planning. A Mauch Chunk camper advised, "We visited in the summer on a weekend when it was full. The campsites are too close to each other and we were surrounded by very loud campers."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Family-friendly tent camping near Jermyn often includes swimming options. A visitor to Mauch Chunk Lake Park shared, "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming. The campsites were adequate size." Another camper added, "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm."
First-time camping location: For families new to camping, certain sites provide an easier introduction. At Hankins, a reviewer described it as "A very suitable place to camp and entertain with everyone." Similarly, a Mauch Chunk Lake visitor noted, "GREAT first trip! The campgrounds were nice and there was a lot to do. Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals."
Noise consideration: Some campgrounds experience significant weekend noise. A visitor to Mauch Chunk Lake Park warned, "There were multiple parties making a lot of noise until after midnight. There are supposed to be quiet hours, but they were not enforced."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent camping areas near Jermyn have few designated RV spots with hookups. While some properties like Mauch Chunk Lake Park offer electric hookups, water hookups, and facilities that accommodate RVs, most sites in the immediate Jermyn area focus primarily on tent camping with minimal RV infrastructure.
Access challenges: RV campers should check road conditions before arrival. Many roads leading to camping areas near Jermyn feature steep grades and unpaved sections that may challenge larger vehicles, particularly after rainfall.
