Looking to find an RV campground or tent campsite near Jim Thorpe that allows dogs? Finding a place to camp with your dog in Pennsylvania has never been easier. Each pet-friendly campsite offers quick access to one or more of Jim Thorpe's most popular destinations.
Are you daring enough to hike the Shades of Death Trail? This is just one of the hiking trails available to visitors at Hickory Run State Park. Not to worry though, the trail is not nearly as ominous as its name. Hickory Run was established as a state park in 1945 following a long and storied history of devastation and restoration. The first settlements in the area occurred following the American Revolution, when landowners began building mills on the local creeks. By the mid-1800s, the area was clearcut, then experienced several incidents of fire and flooding. In 1935 the area was purchased by the National Park Service (NPS) for use as a recreation area, and many of the roads, campgrounds and trails were developed. Ten years later, the NPS transferred the land to the state of Pennsylvania for use as a state park. Just 30 miles south of Scranton, Hickory Run State Park is a 16,000-acre natural area in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains. The area features numerous trout streams, boulder fields, wetlands and restored forests. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, from birds to black bears. The park’s large campground features more than 300 tent, trailer and RV sites, as well as a few walk-in sites and camping cottages. Some campsites are ADA accessible. Park facilities include restrooms with showers, drinking water, two playgrounds, amphitheater, fishing pier, dog-walking area, and a camp store. There’s also recycling and dump stations. The Shades of Death and Beach trails are accessible right from the campground. Campsite rates range from $15–$40/night; cabins and cottages range from $38–$105/night. There is no shortage of outdoor play to be enjoyed on your visit to Hickory Run. On warm days, cool off with a dip in Sand Spring Lake, or go wading below Hawk Falls; cast a line for brook and brown trout in Hickory Run or Mud Run; or test your precision at the park’s disc golf course. There are also several geocaches hidden in the park if you’re up for a little treasure hunting. If you’re packing hiking boots, you have 44 miles of trails to wander. Choose from short, family-friendly nature and wildlife-watching trails, to the more strenuous Boulder Field Trail, which traverses a 16.5-acre field of sandstone boulders that predate several of North America’s ice ages. In winter, many of the park’s trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
In the heart of the Eastern Pennsylvania wilderness, there’s an exciting escape for RVers, campers, and hikers of all ages. Blue Rocks Family Campground occupies over 100 acres of beautiful forest divided by mountain streams and is surrounded by miles of hiking trails that offer incredible views of the Pennsylvania countryside. Topped off with our breathtaking Blue Rocks boulder field that gives our camp its name, Blue Rocks Family Campground is truly the definition of an amazing outdoor Pennsylvania experience. We can’t wait to see ya!
Boasting 22 named waterfalls amid old-growth forest and deeply-incised canyons, Rickett’s Glen State Park encompasses more than 13,000 acres around a high bluff known as the Allegheny Front. On top of the bluff, several lakes—Lake Jean being the largest—are the source of the many creeks that tumble down the canyons and create the spectacular falls. The area was mostly logged out in the early 1900s by the landowner, R. Bruce Ricketts, before he decided to preserve the woodlands in the falls’ three glens. Following efforts to turn the area into a national park in the 1930s failed, he began selling the land to the state of Pennsylvania, who turned the area into a state park in 1944. The park is now a year-round destination for camping, hiking, fishing, bird-watching, paddling, skiing and ice climbing. Just an hour’s drive west of Scranton, the campground at Rickett’s Glen offers 120 drive-in campsites in two areas near the shore of Lake Jean. Sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 40 feet; some sites are ADA accessible, and a few group camps are available. Hookups are not available, but there is a dump station outside the camping area. Facilities in the campgrounds include restrooms with showers, drinking water, an amphitheater, a trail to the lake’s beach, and a designated dog area. The Big Loop campground also has five deluxe cottages available to rent. In a separate area, there are 10 cabins available, as well as a boat ramp (rentals available) and snack bar. Campsite rates range from $15–$20/night; cabins and cottages range from $60–$115/night. The most popular activity at Rickett’s Glen is to hike through the three waterfall glens. This can be done via several looping trails ranging from 3.4 miles to 7.2 miles. Two trailheads are located above the falls, from the lakes area, and one is located below the falls, from PA Route 118. Other summer activities in the park include paddling and fishing on Lake Jean, or just soaking up the sun at the beach. An onsite naturalist offers guided walks, nature activities and interpretive programs. There are also limited hunting opportunities. If visiting during the winter season, many of the trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Ice fishing is popular, as is ice climbing on the waterfalls. Check the park’s website for off-season services, accessibility, and ice climbing requirements.
$15 - $150 / night
In Pennsylvania, the once industrious geography of North Coventry and Warwick now serves as home to 7,730 acres of protected wilderness known as French Creek State Park. Right in the heart of the Schuylkill Highlands, the park’s boundaries make up the largest mass of forested space between anywhere in Washington D.C. and New York City. The diverse land consisting of forests, wetlands, marshes, and sleepy bluffs throughout have become a top destination for the people of southeast Pennsylvania to hike, fish, camp, and bike. At a point long ago, before the industrial revolution, the land was once dominated by ancient forests of American chestnut. Sadly, in 1771 foresters started to clear these trees, in order to create charcoal for the furnace at nearby Hopewell Furnace. However, the forests were still allowed to regrow, with routine clearing scheduled every 25 years thereafter. The furnace was in operation for 112 years until 1883, and its impact on the regional environment was undeniable. The once wooded hillsides, towering trees, and babbling brooks that once existed now appeared as a barren wasteland in many areas. The ecological outlook was looking dim, that is until President Roosevelt started the CCC in 1993 as a response to economic turmoil created by the Great Depression. During the same time, Governor Gifford Pinchot invited the CCC to assist in reclaiming this special land, and they subsequently worked to clear the forests and streams of brush. To commemorate the work, they began the restoration of the historic Hopewell Furnace as well as the creation of many of the facilities still in use today at the park. Among these facilities are several tent camping areas, two group camps, picnic shelters, two small dams and lakes, and even the extensive network of roads and trails that snake throughout the park. Today, the second growth has brought with it a rebirth of life and wonder to the region. This massive expansion of protected land is now home to a multitude of rare animals and plants, not commonly found in the region. For example, French Creek State Park is an Important Bird Area as designated by the National Audubon Society, and an Important Mammal Area as designated by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Pine Swamp is a State Park Natural Area. The park is now known for its diverse fishing, large abundance of wild game for hunt, and it’s plethora of outdoor recreation activities available within. Visitors to the park have a few options for overnight accommodations. The campground itself is well suited for both large and small groups, as well as individuals. In total, 201 modern sites accommodate thousands of visitors annually. The campground also boast a range of amenities, including a centrally located shower and toilet facility. Additionally, there are ten cozy cabins with heat and electricity. Finally, there are two historic group camping CCC Cabins available. The facilities include dining halls, central washhouses, and cabins for campers and staff.
$23 / night
$20 / night
$33 - $42 / night
Traveler
Camped here a few times, for a few days. Each time is always a blast. So beautiful, and clean. Not much fish to catch but overall the experience is always worth it.
Legend
Small (13-site) Bucks County Pennsylvania campground. The entrance and loop road, along with the campsites are all gravel. Some sites appeared to be more defined than others. Each site had a picnic table, fire ring, and garbage can. No hookups.
The restrooms were dated and passable; I did not use the shower.
The lake is separate from the campground and there did not appear to be defined access from the campground to the lake, although there was a sort of path from site 13 that I followed as far as I could. While I could see the lake from this path, there did not seem to be any way to get into the lake (and there was a lot of algae and water lilies). We checked out the lake the next day. There is a (dirt) boat ramp but there was a red flag warning, and the lake had a lot of algae bloom.
This campground did not appear to be a very popular one; on the Thursday before Memorial Day, only two sites were occupied, and I only saw a few reservation tags for the upcoming holiday weekend. It felt a bit neglected, but it was very quiet. If you are looking for a small, uncrowded campground with no amenities, this would be a good choice, but we were just passing through.
Traveler
I’m a family of 5 and my friends family of three all stayed in one site. We went in October at the peak of the leaves changing colors. It’s was beautiful. A 6 point buck walked right through our site literally. The kids enjoyed it a lot. Amenities were very clean. Even the portapot we used was very clean. Will visit again. No service/no electronics. A good way to just unplug and enjoy Gods creation
Ranger
The campground is on a peninsula surrounded by a lake. The larger loop (non electric) sites are more spacious, level and shady. The smaller loop with RV hook ups are more barren. Sites are neat, tidy, and well stocked. Flush toilets. The showers are free but pressure was way too high and water not warm enough. Many families and young campers but CG was quiet at night. There is access to major trails including Ricketts Glen Falls. I did not have cell service with T Mobile.
ScoutI visited Ricketts Glen State Park last year, and it was an incredible experience! The natural beauty of the park is breathtaking, especially with the waterfalls along the Falls Trail– a must-do hike for anyone visiting. The trail is challenging but so worth it; the views are unmatched. I stayed in one of the campsites, which offered a nice level of privacy and had clean facilities, including showers and well-maintained restrooms. Lake Jean was also a highlight, with opportunities for kayaking and swimming, perfect for cooling off after a day of hiking. I'd recommend visiting during the week to avoid the crowds. Truly a perfect spot for anyone looking to escape into nature!
Guide
First time camper, and I'm glad this is the site I started at. Bathrooms are very clean. They have showers as well, but I didn't get to use one. Very quiet, and you get to see a bit of wildlife scattered around. They do not sell would at the sites, so you'd have to go out of your way to get them. Bring cash cause some locals don't accept cc/dc. Also, if you're tent camping, make sure you pick a place that's not too rocky. My site was A 24 and it was mostly rocks. Otherwise, I will be coming back very room!
Guide
Good Campground to visit the amusement park. Electrical hookup was a bit far from the camper, so bring an extension cord. Good atmosphere will be back, the kids had a blast.
Scout
Worst campsite ever. The owner is constantly in you business. Got accused of speeding all the time. With no proof of speed, idling is speeding... They also do not allow work/repairs on camper or vehicle. Including just checking your oil. Or adding Def fluid which my truck requires to pull my camper. Nothing for the family to do. Laundry room closed due to poor maintenance. Was told if I complain any more I would be kicked out, without a refund. Don't worry I will never go there again. Avoid at all cost.
Legend
If you find yourself careening around the picturesque country roads here in Bucks County you will discover Quakerwoods Campground (named of course after the previous tri-cornered hat-donning Quaker residents who settled this vast rich farmland a few hundred years ago) nestled in the verdant, rolling hills of a plush countryside punctuated by massive rolled bays of hay in the surrounding fields, covered wooden bridges and the occasional quaint New England well-preserved charming towns that you will encounter. So, if you have camping on your mind, finding a place like Quakerwoods Campground is quite the find, as it will place you squarely in the heart of one of the most picturesque natural landscapes here in the Keystone State.
As for the campground, which is just off Exit 44 of PA Turnpike or Exit 60 & 60A off of I78, you’ll encounter a destination offering up 170 mostly back-in slots with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) for RVs ranging between $55-$49 in the midst of a fairly decent wooded surrounding, although less so on the interior of the campground and moreso on its perimeter. There’s about 18 tent sites ranging between $40-$45 that feature 15 amp electric and running water. All RV and tent sites are relatively flat and include a standard-issued picnic table and in-ground fold-up fire ring. Don’t have an RV, 5th Wheeler or Tent? Not a problem, as the good folks here at Quakerwoods will rent you one of their 4-6 person campers for $120/ night.
The amenities here at Quakerwoods Campground are plenty, inclusive of: 4 Pristine restroom& shower facilities, Wi-Fi service, Free wagon rides(every Saturday), Camp store, Fishing pond, Adult& kid swimming pools, Walking paths, Fishing pond, Game room, Family bingo, Mini golf, Baseball field, Horseshoe pits, Kids Playgrounds, RC track, Front& Back pavilions, Sand Volleyball court, Cornhole, Basketball court, Designated dump stations, water stations, Bonfires, 2 Shuffleboard courts, Ice for sale, Propane refueling station, Laundry-O-Mat, Themed weekends and Pet friendly.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) As a tent camper, I was impressed by how Quakerwoods segregates mi tent pitchin’ bredren from the rest of the folks who bring their homes with them on wheels, placing tent sites across the other side of a small creek on the southwestern periphery near the fishing pond; (2) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or from the confines of your onboard mini-fridge, while there’s not a ton of restaurants around these parts, there are a few and they are pretty amazing, including favorites Brick Tavern Inn and The West End, McCoole’s @ The Historic Red Lion Inn and Sage Alley Brewery; (3) In the event that you need to replenish any of your supplies, rest assured as in nearby Quakertown, there’s a Giant & Aldi’s grocery store as well as a local Target, Walmart, TJMaxx, Kohl’s and Link Beverages to stock up on the 21+ liquid refreshment; and (4) Should you be towing your canoe or kayak with you and are eager to get the beak of your waterbird wet, then head on over due east of Quakertown Campground to Nockamixon SP where there’s a sizeable, yet skinny lake just begging for you to navigate it and get some good, hard oaring in.
Happy Camping!
Ranger
Checkin was quick and no fuss. Friendly staff, grounds look well taken care of. The pond is a very nice amenity. Convenient FHU off interstate 81. Reasonably priced.
Guide
For $80 bucks I expected more. The place is run down and almost feels abandoned. The ring in the pool suggests the water level has been low for a long time. The H sites are somewhat swampy. It may have been quite the place back in its time, but it is in sole serious need of TLC. If it had been $20 instead of $80 I’d give it 2 stars.
Guide
5 miles from I-81, quiet and clean! Wait for breakfast at the restaurant
Ranger
The lake is gorgeous and there are nice hiking trails, but sites are very small and close together. Let’s are allowed in less than half of the campground, which means all the dogs are in a smaller area and barking at each other more than other places. The no-pet area was practically empty when we were there midweek but the pets-allowed area was much more crowded than we would have liked.
Also rules and signage are wildly confusing, lots of things contradict each other. Cell service exists but not great for remote work.
Legend
This park is great for families, they had events scheduled throughout the summer, and a separate toddler pool. It’s very close to the Rail Gap Pocono Creek Nature Reserve, with some nice trails along Pocono Creek. We stayed here for a week and everyone we met was super friendly, and we would visit again.
Traveler
Campground it a little outdated. The back seasonal area has some sketchy looking campers that look abandoned. The locals using the pavilion stayed up making noise way past the 10 pm quiet time. The owners are still relatively new and making visible improvements and were very nice. The layout of the sites was odd and mostly not marked off very well and looked like a free for all in some areas.
GuideWe stayed in loop C that allows pets. Very spacious sites. The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area.
Scout
Facilities are disgusting and you’re right on top of neighbors. The lake is great so I would just do a day trip. If you want quiet and relaxation don’t come here to camp.
Scout
The park is lovely, but the camping facilities are subpar, primitive and lack any kind of privacy. I bike toured there. The only potable water was from a near-broken water fountain at the public rest rooms and no electrical connection to recharge electronics. There was also a fair amount of road noise at night. Bathhouse OK, but just basic. Tent spots are just lined up against one another facing a service road.
Traveler
We recently went camping with a tent there. Not tent friendly first night we slept on rocks second night we got moved to a spot which actually had some grass. Everything has weird hours. The cafe is only open on weekends and the store is only open from like 10:00 to 4:00 p.m. and that's it. The pool hours are good they're from 11:00 to 7:00. The bath houses are fine. It's just that there's nothing to do in the morning time nothing at all the lake that you want to call it or river it was all green like there's better campsites out there but this one isn't that bad If you're just staying for a night or two but just do not use a tent.
ScoutWe booked this campground because it was waterfront camping. Upon arriving to the site, we saw that it was not in fact waterfront camping. When we talked to the office, they just told us to take the other side, which also was not waterfront like advertised. Luckily, before we decided to check that side out, the owners son told her that someone else was coming to that section, “which they were also confused as to why the camping wasn’t waterfront”. The water that was accessible was a small launch area where other people in the campground hung out at most of the time. The map of the campground they gave us was completely different than the one online. The sites weren’t marked either.
Scout
Why does it cost about the same as renting a cabin out as compared to bringing your own camper make no damn sense .
Guide
This might be my 3rd or 4th trip there. They advertise WiFi but the WiFi never works. No cable hookups. And cell service is at a minimum. Every time we go there, it’s a new excuse about the WiFi. Funny thing is, they take the time to show you your password lol.
Traveler
Went tent camping for 3 nights, easy to get to, bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other. Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before.
GuideThis is one of the best camping experiences we've had. This state park has so much to offer and the campground is very nice. The campsites are really good, most of them fairly private and level. There are some pull through sites for big rigs but those don't have trees and are not private. We had a site with power for our small trailer and it was fantastic. The bathrooms were kept very clean and they had 4 showers so we never had to wait. There is absolutely no cell service, however, and we had to go all the way down the mountain to get texts or make calls. The trails are very well maintained. If you want to do the Falls Trail ( 21 beautiful waterfalls), it is quite challenging. We were glad to have trecking poles and hiking boots. It took us over 4 hours to do the entire hike. There is a nice beach for swimming, the lake felt clean and wasn't too cold in July. Lake Jean is nice to kayak and there are quite a few tent sites you can launch your watercraft from, as well as 2 public launch sites. I was worried about the weather because it was 98 degrees in NJ but as the park is up in elevation, we did not get over the mid 80's the whole time we were there and the mornings were quite cool. I definitely recommend this park. It does get very busy on weekends so if you can stay during the week it's much nicer.
LegendWe stayed at Lakewood Park Campground in Barnesville, PA, for a few days for R&R. And we got it!
THINGS I LIKED:
This place has the best of an old-fashioned campground with a great layout. But it offers modern amenities and utilities in a natural setting.
Family owned and operated by folks who take great pride in offering a really nice place to stay.
About 30-minutes to Jim Thorpe, PA, or Lehigh Valley Zoo.
The place is filled with mature shade trees which offer some protection from the sun and a beautiful setting. But they take great care to remove problem trees and branches from the sites and roads.
Fun activities during our stay included bingo and a food truck.
Our site(#74) was plenty big enough for our 45’ motorhome and Jeep plus lots of room to spread out.
The park is relatively new. Everything is clean and in great working order. All kinds of maintenance was going on throughout each day, and it shows.
I contacted the campground by email after 11pm to inquire about availability to arrive a day early. I sent an email rather than a phone call as I had no expectation of a response until at least the next day. They replied within minutes, adjusted my reservation, sent a revised confirmation email, and didn’t ask for payment until I arrived for check-in. Wow, that’s top-notch service!
THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:
WOULD WE COME BACK?
Scout
Guide
I’ve been here twice now and it is a beautiful campsite. Individual campsites are separate from cabin and group sites.
Tent campsites have benches and a fire pit. Group campsites have large stove. The cabins seem clean and well maintained. All the sites are set up nearby the office where people are all day should you ever need anything. The workers are super friendly and regularly make rounds of the grounds.
Bathrooms are spread out so it’s never a far walk from your site. They are super clean with a shower and two stalls. There is a water fountain outside of them. One of the bathrooms has a playground next to it for people with kids. Hiking trails are also spread out among the campsites as well.
I solo camp and have always felt safe at these campgrounds. Not to mention the hiking and scenery are absolutely breathtaking.
The non camper public area has benches and a parking lot for visitors of campers or people doing day hikes.
Discover the perfect spots for pets-allowed camping near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, where you and your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Jim Thorpe, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Jim Thorpe, PA is Hickory Run State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 60 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 152 dog-friendly camping locations near Jim Thorpe, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
