Primitive camping spots surround Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania along the Appalachian Trail corridor, with tent sites concentrated near Lehigh Gap on the northeastern edge of Carbon County. The region's elevation ranges from 400 feet near the Lehigh River to over 1,500 feet on the ridgelines where backcountry campsites offer maximum seclusion. Most primitive sites require carrying in all water supplies, especially during summer when seasonal springs often dry up.
What to do
River activities: The Lehigh River provides excellent paddling and rafting opportunities for campers. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, visitors appreciate that "the water is so clean and clear" for paddle boarding, with sites available "right on the water that are nice size." For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Lehigh Gorge offers whitewater rafting trips.
Hiking trails: Access segments of the Appalachian Trail from primitive camping areas near Lehigh Gap. The AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap serves as an excellent base for exploring the ridge with "a magical field of ferns" surrounding the campsite and "views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail."
Water recreation: Swimming and boating opportunities abound at local lakes. One camper at Mauch Chunk mentioned, "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake."
What campers like
Privacy in primitive sites: The backcountry camping areas provide seclusion not found at developed campgrounds. At AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap, campers value that "you can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky."
Convenient river access: Campers appreciate sites with direct water access. Riverview Park Campground offers "tent only sites located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit," making it "the perfect place for camping if you are adventuring out on the Lehigh River and want to get an early start."
Group camping spaces: Several locations accommodate larger parties. The AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap features "a bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area" with "many large flat areas that are perfect for tents."
What you should know
Water planning: Most primitive sites require water planning. At many ridge sites, there is "nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge," so campers must "bring in your water" before ascending.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are common in the region. One camper at AT Overlook Campground reported being "on edge since there are several signs warning of high bear activity" and encountering "a flock of wild turkeys who thoroughly scared me when they flew off."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking. At Riverview Park, campers need to "reserve a site in advance since they will charge you an additional $10 if you show up without planning."
Weekend noise levels: Developed campgrounds can become noisy on weekends. A visitor to Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite noted their site "appears to be well-used" but was "less muddy than some of the other options so would work well when it has rained recently."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Some campgrounds cater well to camping novices. Mauch Chunk Lake Park "is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby."
Activity variety: Campgrounds with multiple recreational options keep children engaged. At Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center, families find evening entertainment like "a movie shown at night, as well as music played late into the night," though one camper notes, "if you are looking for a peaceful campground look elsewhere."
Comfort considerations: Expect varied terrain conditions for tent placement. At some Mauch Chunk Lake sites, campers report "many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters" despite having "plenty of space away from neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive sites near Jim Thorpe cannot accommodate RVs. Larger vehicles should stick to established campgrounds like Mauch Chunk Lake Park, which offers electric hookups and water but is not considered "big-rig friendly" according to site descriptions.
Event camping: Some RV sites serve as bases for special events. During Lehigh Riverfest, Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center provides a festival atmosphere with "Bands throughout the night with beer and food. Nice showers."
