Camping spots near Jessup, Pennsylvania generally operate from mid-April through mid-October, with most developed campgrounds located within a 30-40 minute drive. The Pocono Plateau region sits at elevations ranging from 1,300-2,300 feet, contributing to cooler evening temperatures even during summer months. Cell service varies widely throughout northeastern Pennsylvania's camping areas, with stronger coverage at some campgrounds and limited connectivity at others.
What to do
Swimming options: At Lackawanna State Park Campground, campers have access to both a lake for swimming and "a very large pool." According to David G., "There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool. We went in early spring midweek, it was very quiet and exactly the get away we wanted."
Fishing opportunities: Many lakes in the region are stocked with fish, requiring proper licenses for anglers over 16. At Frances Slocum State Park Campground, the lake provides good fishing, though Jackie F. warns to be careful: "Around the lake people leave their fishing bait and tackle on the ground so please be careful with your pups! Also, DO NOT take your pups to the water. There is a weird bacteria or algae currently growing in the lake, it's completely visible."
Birdwatching and wildlife: Keen Lake Resort offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities from waterside campsites. Marlaina M. from Tobyhanna State Park Campground reports: "We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite." Bear sightings are common in the region, with Erik M. noting, "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."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Lakeside camping ranks among the most popular features for campers. Shannon C. from Keen Lake Resort Campground noted, "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. 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."
Campground amenities: Many private campgrounds offer amenity-rich environments. Emily Z. observed that at Keen Lake Resort, "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground. The showers are coin operated. The staff were so accommodating and everyone was super nice. There is a lot for younger kids to do and the grounds are pet friendly."
Hiking trail access: Extensive trail systems cater to various hiking abilities. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, Shirley M. reported, "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. We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Pocono Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically by season and elevation. Lou R. from Keen Lake Resort warned, "Worst part though was when i did go and camp out for a week near the small pond part it rained and our campsite turned into a complete mud pit." Pack waterproof gear and footwear regardless of season.
Pet policies: Rules for pets vary significantly between campgrounds. Most state parks allow pets only in designated loops. Jackie F. notes at Frances Slocum State Park, "All sites only have electric and only certain allow pets." Private campgrounds often have more pet-friendly policies.
Campsite selection: Study campground maps before booking as site quality varies widely. Emilie D. from Tobyhanna State Park advised, "These sites are RIGHT AGAINST THE ROAD. Other state parks tend to make their sites deep, whereas these are wide. They don't seem to enforce quiet time after 9, which would be fine if each campsite wasn't right up on the neighbor."
Bug prevention: The region's lakes and forests create ideal environments for insects. Shannon C. reported, "The bugs were better than I would have anticipated next to the lake, although some days the flies were a bit annoying." Bring appropriate repellents, especially during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Planned activities: Secluded Acres Campground offers organized activities for various age groups. Mike H. from Keen Lake Resort noted, "My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Beach and swimming access: Dedicated swimming areas provide safe recreation for children. According to Harry L., "We were there over 4th of July so the pool was pretty full during the weekend so we decided to utilize the lake for those days and enjoyed the pool during the week once some of the weekenders left."
Playground availability: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. Shirley M. observed at Hickory Run State Park, "There was a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children." Jennifer R. at Highland Campgrounds noted, "Playground is also older but also gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin."
Digital detox opportunities: Limited connectivity can benefit family time. Emily Z. at Keen Lake Resort advised, "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool. The store has a huge selection of necessities, so no need to worry about forgetting things."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVers, choosing the right site makes a significant difference. At Highland Campgrounds, sites vary in size and privacy. Jennifer R. noted, "Whether it's nature and back roads, or wanting to have a dip in the pool and lay in the sun, this campground is the best of both worlds."
Hookup reliability: Electrical systems at older campgrounds may have limitations. David from Lackawanna State Park warned, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Navigation: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. Beverly J. from Cherry Ridge Campsites noted, "Remote, not the place for one night. People friendly and helpful. We were in a back into site."
Full-hookup availability: For extended stays, full-hookup sites are available at several campgrounds. Harry L. at Keen Lake Resort reported, "When we got to our site the sewer pipe was buried and we didn't know where it was, they sent someone out to our site within minutes. After finding it they determined the top flange was crushed but I could still get my drain in there."
