Kempton sits within the scenic Appalachian foothills of Berks County, where elevations range from 400-1,000 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 80°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. Local camping options vary from primitive tent sites to fully-equipped yurts, with many facilities open from April through October when rainfall averages 3-4 inches monthly.
What to do
Boulder exploration: Hickory Run State Park Campground features a unique geological formation spanning 16 acres. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," writes Amber A.
Paddleboarding: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers direct lake access from some campsites. A camper explains: "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. 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."
Frisbee golf: Several parks in the region feature courses through wooded areas. French Creek State Park offers a challenging course where trees add difficulty. The park also provides "frisbee golf, boat rentals, fishing, and a pool overlooking the lake," according to reviews.
Hiking: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region. "The Pinnacle Trail so you have access to great hikes and amazing views," notes Lorie O. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. At Hickory Run, you'll find "44 miles of trails rated from easy to difficult," with Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails being popular options.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Blue Rocks Family Campground provides secluded spaces for tent campers. "This is a great spot for camping both alone and with friends. I am a tent camper, and it's great to be able to camp without getting stuck near an RV with its hookups running," notes Lorie O.
Natural water features: Streams run through several campgrounds in the area. At Allentown KOA, "Our spot backed up right to a creek and it was beautiful," according to Matt R. Another camper mentions that at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, "There is a creek where you can go fishing."
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain their amenities well. At Stonybrook RV Resort, a camper notes, "The laundry area and shower rooms are beautiful and clean." Another reviewer at French Creek State Park observed, "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes."
Wildlife viewing: Various parks offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We saw beautiful fawns drinking in stream," reports Becky M. at Allentown KOA. The Kempton area has significant bird populations, with hawk migrations visible during spring and fall seasons.
What you should know
Campsite selection: Many campgrounds have varied site types and terrain. At French Creek State Park, "Loop A has very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C."
Wildlife awareness: Hickory Run State Park Campground has wildlife considerations. "Be aware that this area has a high bear population and all campers are required to keep food items in their vehicles or trailers when not at the site," a ranger review notes.
Connectivity: Cell service varies significantly across the region. At Tuscarora State Park, there is "No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain," according to Zoltan P. This makes it ideal for disconnecting but requires planning ahead.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. "We have been having a crazy amount of rain here in Pennsylvania so due to weather related issues we haven't been able to get out there until now," a camper reports about spring camping conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Jim Thorpe Camping Resort offers multiple kid-friendly amenities. "Very family friendly and the staff are so nice. Very nice grounds and a lot to do for families," says Jared M. Another reviewer mentions "a pool, playground, arcade, camp store, bike and golf cart rentals."
Swimming areas: Several parks feature lake beaches with designated swimming zones. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, a camper notes "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming." French Creek State Park offers "a pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake."
Activity planning: Weekends often feature structured family events at certain campgrounds. At Mountain Springs Camping Resort, a visitor observed that "all the planned activities were geared towards adults, not kids," so check activity calendars when booking if this is important for your family.
Site spacing: For families needing room to spread out, look for appropriate sites. "Our site was a little rocky so be prepared with a good mat/mattress if tent camping," advises Maggie H. about Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Stonybrook RV Resort provides level spaces. "The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup. Our site is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped," reports Matt S.
Entrance challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access points. One RVer notes about Stonybrook, "The entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn't easy in a 45' motorhome towing a Jeep."
Hookup availability: For yurt camping near Kempton, Pennsylvania, Tuscarora State Park offers full amenities. "Yurts have heat and fans. Full size refrigerator, stove and microwave. No water but directly across from facilities with basin sinks outside for cleaning dishes, etc," explains Mandy F.
Seasonal considerations: Year-round options exist for yurt camping in Kempton, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. "This is a state park with so many wonderful activities. There really is something for everyone here. We LOVE camping here as the campsites are not right on top of one another," shares a reviewer about French Creek State Park's year-round availability.
