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Best Campgrounds near Jim Thorpe, PA

1,141 Reviews

Campgrounds near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania provide lodging options ranging from developed facilities to primitive sites. The Mauch Chunk Lake Park located directly in Jim Thorpe offers lakeside camping with tent and RV sites, while Jim Thorpe Camping Resort accommodates tents, RVs, and cabins with additional glamping options. Hickory Run State Park Campground, approximately 15 miles northeast, features similar accommodation types within a state park setting. Most established campgrounds in the region maintain seasonal operations, typically opening from April through October, with few offering year-round accessibility.

Access to camping facilities varies by location, with most developed campgrounds featuring paved or well-maintained gravel roads accessible to standard vehicles. Tent sites at some locations may present challenges with exposed tree roots and uneven terrain. Several campgrounds provide full hookups for RVs, including electric, water, and sewer connections. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer weekends and fall foliage season when the area experiences peak visitation. Amenities differ between facilities, with most offering restrooms, showers, and potable water, though primitive camping options with limited services exist. According to one visitor, "The campsites were adequate size. The campground is very close to lots of outdoor attractions and fun in the Jim Thorpe and Blue Mountain area."

Waterfront camping opportunities rank among the most popular options, with Mauch Chunk Lake Park providing direct lake access for swimming and boating. Multiple reviewers note the family-friendly atmosphere at most developed campgrounds in the area, with amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, and scheduled activities. A common theme in visitor feedback involves site spacing and noise levels, particularly during busy weekends. Several campgrounds receive positive mentions for their proximity to recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, fishing spots, and bicycle routes. The nearby D&L Trail provides direct access from some campgrounds to expanded outdoor recreation. While some facilities maintain a rustic atmosphere, others offer more resort-like amenities. Travelers seeking greater privacy should consider weekday visits or early season reservations when campgrounds typically experience lower occupancy rates.

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Best Camping Sites Near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania (201)

    1. Hickory Run State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Albrightsville, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (272) 808-6192

    $20 - $72 / night

    "The newly built park office and entrance rivals some national parks. Staff is helpful and professional and the campsites are always very well maintained."

    "Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"

    2. Jim Thorpe Camping Resort

    15 Reviews
    Jim Thorpe, PA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 325-2644

    "The sites were fine and I liked the location. Next to the creek where you can fish trout (don’t forget to buy a license). About 3 miles stroll along the creek to Jim Thorpe."

    "Love the area of Jim Thorpe."

    3. Mauch Chunk Lake Park

    10 Reviews
    Nesquehoning, PA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 325-3669

    $20 / night

    "Beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals. There’s much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by."

    "You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."

    4. Locust Lake State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Mahanoy City, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $20 - $29 / night

    "Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling! Check out the Jim Thorpe fall fest and Hershey Park."

    "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice."

    5. Allentown KOA

    15 Reviews
    Germansville, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 298-2160

    "This campground is nestled in rhe mountains of Pennsylvania. This campgound is family oriented, it has a pool, a store, a game room. They also do things for different holidays."

    "We chose this campground mainly because it was close to home and we could camp and not miss my daughter's soccer practice/game.  We were pleasantly surprised by the campground. "

    6. Stonybrook RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Andreas, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 386-4088

    "There’s lots of space to walk your dog on leash but no dog park.   We had an issue with our surge protector and the manager had an electrician out to us quickly who helped us solve a problem.  "

    "Same with their patio set up around the store. Hands down I would stay here again! This may be our new go to for quick little getaways!"

    7. Pocono Point

    5 Reviews
    Parryville, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 994-3439

    $45 - $550 / night

    "Good location and easy to get to from the PA turnpike NE extension 476. Also a good location to get to all the state parks nearby like Beltzville and Lehigh Gorge."

    "Cute campground with RV and creekside tent sites near Lehigh Gap. The staff here was incredibly friendly and helpful and they have a well cared for site."

    8. Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort

    3 Reviews
    Parryville, PA
    5 miles
    +1 (610) 377-5313

    "Wanted to find a close by place for for a night of Tent camping and stumbled across this winter time ski resort/ spring summer camping and adventure grounds."

    9. Tuscarora State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Barnesville, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 467-2404

    $44 - $47 / night

    "Good hiking trails were just a short walk away from our campsite. Would definitely go back again."

    "No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc. Each yurt has a huge deck, 2 picnic tables and fire pit."

    10. Blue Rocks Family Campground

    25 Reviews
    Lenhartsville, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 756-6366

    "According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."

    "Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."

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Recent Camping Photos near Jim Thorpe, PA

675 Photos of 201 Jim Thorpe Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Jim Thorpe, PA

1141 Reviews of 201 Jim Thorpe Campgrounds

  • R
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Wonderful campground!

    Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!! They make sure your stay is exactly what you’d want it to be.. getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back. Overall very impressed!! They even were able To get us in very last minute WITH full hook ups for my trailer!!!!

  • Jessica V.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Great weekend spot

    We went with friends for a weekend. Both families have little kids and it was a great spot with a playground, construction digging area, and a bunch of activities for the kids to do. We went in September so the pool was closed but it looked like a nice size. Full hook ups which was great! Also they have a nice stream that everyone went fishing at. They are building some new sites at the end of the property.

  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Kylie R.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Mountain Vista Campground

    A mix of being able to unplug but also have the ammenities avavilble if wanted/needed

    This campground is very clean, staff and campers are very friendly. It’s a great spot if you have kids because they have many different activities(pool/arcade games/movie nights/ and more.)

  • j
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Cranberry Run Campground

    Don’t Stay here!!

    It’s not a campground. It’s where people stash their rvs, some of whom seem to live here permanently. Caretaker was rude. Sites were all rocky and many on steep inclines. Complete waste of our time. Plus, the site looks nothing like the pictures they post, which is an area you can’t camp at. Don’t stay here.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • b
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    Gravel lot

    It’s a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me.

Guide to Jim Thorpe

Camping near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers rave about the hiking opportunities, especially at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails are very well maintained. If you want to do the Falls Trail (21 beautiful waterfalls), it is quite challenging."
  • Fishing and Swimming: Enjoy fishing or swimming at Hickory Run State Park Campground. A camper noted, "The campsite was perfectly sized for us - tent campers and close but not too close to the clean restrooms."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Worlds End State Park Campground appreciate the natural surroundings, with one saying, "Great hiking and vistas. Beautiful river and great fishing."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at French Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "New bathrooms which were clean, but we went in November, so showering in there would have been rough."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park. One review highlighted, "I can’t believe how quiet it is here. Our site is wooded and very private."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. A camper at Keen Lake Resort Campground said, "Activities all day long for the children. Great general store that has everything in it."

What you should know:

  • Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in some areas. A camper at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground noted, "There is absolutely no cell service, however, and we had to go all the way down the mountain to get texts or make calls."
  • Campsite Proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Facilities are disgusting and you’re right on top of neighbors."
  • Seasonal Access: Check the campground seasons before planning your trip. For example, Hickory Run State Park Campground is open from the 2nd Friday in April to the 3rd Sunday in October.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Blue Rocks Family Campground, which has a playground and organized activities. A camper said, "The playground was great. Lots of activities."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A family at Keen Lake Resort Campground enjoyed the general store, stating, "The nachos and ice cream are the best."
  • Pack for Comfort: Ensure you have comfortable sleeping arrangements. A camper at Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park mentioned, "Our site was well shaded for most of the day."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Hickory Run State Park Campground noted, "The layout sometimes had it where the sites next to yours had their fire ring behind your camper."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Keen Lake Resort Campground appreciated, "We had full hookups."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A camper at Worthington State Forest Campground expressed frustration, saying, "Where is the oversight in this place? There is no park ranger on site."

Camping near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Jim Thorpe, PA?

Mauch Chunk Lake Park is consistently rated as one of the best campgrounds in the area, offering spacious sites that feel secluded even when full. The park features a beautiful lake beach with canoe and kayak rentals, clean water for paddleboarding, and waterfront sites. For a different experience, Lizard Creek Campground provides a nice pool, playground for kids, and creek-side sites. Both campgrounds are conveniently located near the town of Jim Thorpe, giving you easy access to local attractions, hiking trails, white water rafting, restaurants, and seasonal festivals.

Are there RV camping options in Jim Thorpe?

Jim Thorpe Camping Resort offers RV sites with hookups just 3 miles from downtown. The resort features clean bathrooms and showers, and its creekside location provides fishing opportunities (license required). Some sites are more secluded than others, as this is primarily a seasonal campground. For another option, KOA Campground New Tripoli is close to Jim Thorpe with RV-friendly amenities, a dog park, and a river flowing through the property. This KOA is conveniently located near recreational activities and Appalachian Trail access points.

Is there any state park camping available near Jim Thorpe?

Hickory Run State Park Campground offers excellent camping opportunities near Jim Thorpe. The park features hiking trails, fishing spots, and mountain biking opportunities. While the campsites and roads can be a bit tight, the park boasts a newly built visitor center and professional staff. Another great option is Locust Lake State Park Campground, which is particularly beautiful during fall. This state park provides trail access and is conveniently located for visiting Jim Thorpe's fall festival. Both parks are within reasonable driving distance from Jim Thorpe.

What amenities can I expect at Camp Dietrich on Bear Creek near Jim Thorpe?

Based on available information about campgrounds in the Jim Thorpe area, specific details about Camp Dietrich on Bear Creek are limited. However, most established campgrounds near Jim Thorpe typically offer basic amenities such as potable water, restroom facilities, and fire rings. For confirmed amenities, it's best to contact Camp Dietrich directly before your visit. For alternative options with well-documented amenities, consider Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort near Lehighton or Tuscarora State Park Campground, both offering various access options and facilities within reasonable distance to Jim Thorpe.

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