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Tent Camping near Kutztown, PA

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Tent campsites near Kutztown, Pennsylvania range from established campgrounds to more primitive backcountry options along the Appalachian Trail. Lehigh Gap offers several tent-specific camping areas with Riverview Park Campground providing accessible tent sites along the Lehigh River. The AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap features walk-in tent sites surrounded by ferns on the mountain ridgeline, while Green Lane Park's Deep Creek Campground offers more developed facilities.

    The tent sites in this region vary significantly in surface conditions and amenities. Appalachian Trail primitive tent camping areas typically feature stone fire rings but no potable water, requiring hikers to fill up before ascending the mountain or at nearby springs. Most tent campgrounds enforce quiet hours, though enforcement varies by location. Tent pads at ridge sites are generally flat with pine needle bedding providing natural cushioning, while riverside sites may become muddy after rainfall. Most primitive tent areas have established fire rings, but campers should verify current fire restrictions before their trip. Vault toilets are available at designated campgrounds like Riverview Park, but primitive AT tent sites lack bathroom facilities.

    The terrain surrounding Kutztown tent camping areas offers distinct advantages for tent campers seeking views and solitude. Sites at AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap provide exceptional valley views directly from tent doorways, with flat, dry surfaces for comfortable setup. Many tent-only sites along the ridge feature natural windbreaks from surrounding pine forests. Geographic isolation creates quieter camping experiences away from road noise, particularly at higher elevation sites. Several tent areas offer creek access, though water should be treated before consumption. "The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers," noted one camper about the George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter area, though they recommended tent campers continue to more suitable sites nearby rather than attempting to pitch near the shelter.

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    Best Tent Campgrounds near Kutztown (31)

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      1. Rolling Hills Retreats

      5.0(1)7mi from Kutztown1 siteTents, Glamping

      "Her boyfriend and I wanted to plan an outdoor camping trip but we’re completely over having no privacy, worrying about my reactive dog, feeling like we had to follow ridiculous rules when going camping"

      from $160 - $380 / night

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      2. Shambala at Mystic Hollow

      5.0(1)12mi from Kutztown15 sitesTents

      "Shambala at Mystic Hollow offers great creekside campsites for anyone looking to pitch a tent and enjoy some time by the water.  Check them out and share your experience on the Dyrt!"

      from $40 / night

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      3. Mauch Chunk Lake Park

      4.0(10)22mi from KutztownTents, Cabins, Glamping

      "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone."

      "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."

      from $20 / night

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      4. Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

      3.4(8)21mi from KutztownTents, Glamping

      "Clean restrooms, lots of open space!"

      "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails"

      from $20 - $30 / night

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      5. AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap

      4.0(2)19mi from KutztownTents

      "The only downside was my sleeping pad sprung a leak, so it wasn't the best night's sleep. But the site itself was great and I would camp there again."

      "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."

      6. AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap

      4.5(2)20mi from KutztownTents

      "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."

      7. AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap

      5.0(1)20mi from KutztownTents

      "This site is really 2 separate sites that are a short ways apart along the trail. They are both excellent spots to set up a tent if you plan on camping up on the ridge."

      8. George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter

      5.0(1)20mi from KutztownTents, Cabins, Glamping

      "A single-level open-sided AT shelter near the Lehigh Gap trailhead. The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers."

      Check Availability

      9. Riverview Park Campground

      4.0(1)20mi from KutztownTents

      "The sites are each tent only and located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit. They also have a bathroom facility up alongside the road."

      from $15 - $30 / night

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      10. Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite (group)

      4.0(1)20mi from KutztownTents

      "This site appears to be well-used and has several established areas for sitting and setting up a fire."

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    Recent Tent Camping Photos near Kutztown, PA

    58 Photos of 31 Kutztown Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers

    Tent Camping Reviews near Kutztown, PA

    1043 Reviews of 31 Kutztown Campgrounds

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 24, 2025

      Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

      History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

      Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

      Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

      Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

      Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

      Happy Camping!

    • Mike P.The Dyrt Pro User
      Aug. 21, 2026

      Thornhurst Tract Roadside Campsites — Pinchot State Forest

      A peaceful getaway.

      Only 3 sites along this stretch of road, and they're spaced nicely. Lots of tree cover for a nice shady camping spot. Tons of wild life, expect the bear to wander through camp. By far one of my favorite camping spots!

      No electric, no water, no dump site, no shower, Vault toilets in walking distance.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt Pro User
      Apr. 1, 2026

      Quakerwoods Campground

      Quaint Country Camping in Classic Bucks County

      Tucked into the rolling farmland and lush hillsides of Bucks County just off Exit 44 of the PA Turnpike and Exits 60/60A from I-78, Quakerwoods Campground delivers a postcard-perfect countryside setting with wide-open skies, neighboring hay fields, rustic barns and charming small towns that feel pulled straight from a New England travel guide. With roughly 170 RV sites, a small collection of tent sites and several rental campers, the campground strikes a balance between peaceful rural escape and full-featured family campground energy.

      HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Gorgeous pastoral setting with surrounding farmland, rolling hills and a distinctly peaceful countryside atmosphere;(2) Excellent full-hookup RV infrastructure with mostly back-in sites offering 30/50 amp electric, water and sewer, along with flat pads, picnic tables and in-ground fire rings;(3) Exceptionally strong amenity package including adult and kids swimming pools, mini golf, baseball field, RC track, shuffleboard, fishing pond, game room, playgrounds, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, cornhole, themed weekends, bingo and Saturday wagon rides;(4) Clean and plentiful facilities including four well-kept restroom and shower buildings, laundry, camp store, dump stations, water stations, propane refills and ice sales; and(5) Outstanding access to regional attractions including Nockamixon State Park for kayaking and canoeing, plus great nearby dining at Brick Tavern Inn, McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn and Sage Alley Brewery.

      LOWLIGHTS:(1) Interior sections of the campground offer less tree cover and privacy compared to the wooded perimeter sites;(2) Tent camping is limited in number and clustered separately, which may feel slightly isolated to some campers;(3) Restaurant options are not immediately adjacent, requiring a short drive for dining;(4) Weekend popularity and themed events can increase noise and traffic levels; and(5) RV rates trend toward the higher end during peak season.

      Happy Camping!

    • Ra F.
      Aug. 28, 2024

      Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

      OK, but camping gets a low rating.

      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.

    • Laure D.The Dyrt Pro User
      Sep. 19, 2020

      Locust Lake State Park Campground

      Serenity on the lakes

      Pretty campground with lots of lake views. We arrived just before dark which was good because the sites were not level front to back. Most sites had a slope but there were some level sites. You can kayak, canoe, paddle board, and fish on the lake. There are 2 boat launches. The store wasn’t much to speak of. Bath houses were clean. We walked around the lake on a paved level path. They advertise no alcohol. This is near the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine tour which we loved. It’s near the Yingling Brewery tour.

    • B
      Jul. 29, 2018

      Tohickon Valley County Park

      One stop shop for adventure!

      This place is amazing! everything you could want, from tent and RV camping to cabin rentals. They also have a pool and playground. some of my favorite parts of this park are a good 100’ rack wall perfect for climbing, great fishing, trails for miles that even connects to the AT, and when scheduled they open the dam up stream for som world class whitewater rafting.

      As for some things that aren’t listed. this is no alcohol permitted in the park due to it being a state park, however that all depends on how open you are about it and the Park rangers. Cell phone service is limited last time I was up there in 2012 only people with Verizon Wireless had any reception. Also there is no WiFi. No hookups or camp store.

    • Napunani
      Jun. 25, 2022

      French Creek State Park Campground

      Campsites Jammed Closely Together

      PROS 

      Reserved 328 days prior to arriving

      $13.50 senior discount 

      Immediately greeted by Loop C camp host who was extremely friendly and helpful 

      Site C3 parking pad level asphalt 

      Metal frame wooden picnic table that was moveable 

      One hook lantern pole 

      Metal fire pit which was cleaned out upon our arrival 

      Some vegetation between sites provided a bit of privacy from neighbors sites 

      Park is 21 miles from Valley Forge National Historical Park. Catch National Park Service 90 minute trolley tour at the Visitor Center. 

      Shady Maple Smorgasbord...authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking…largest buffet in the USA…16 miles from French Creek SP 

      CONS

      $6.50 reservation fee for making my own on-line reservation 

      Horrible signage along PA-345. Never saw very small sign when we where intensely searching 

      Such a large overall park, but camping loop sites are jammed together

      Pitiful low water pressure  in Loop C

      Site sewer connection is high; needs to be knocked down to ground level 

      Short length of site caused creative tow vehicle parking 

      Loop C women’s toilet/shower building a big nasty mess Saturday 

      Trash dumpsters are on the main road near the campground check-in station (not walkable) 

      Noisy campground; 9pm quiet hour not enforced

      Lots of barking dogs 

      No wood sales in park 

      No WiFi 

      1 bar Verizon

    • Coll G.
      Aug. 3, 2026

      Camp Taylor Campground

      Privacy & quiet hours are king

      We’ve been to Camp Taylor twice now for tent camping: September 2021 and May 2023. We stayed at the rustic tent sites both times, and there was room for 2 cars and 2 tents. Depending on how you want your setup, there are some that are more secluded and others that are close together and would be great for group camping.

      The staff are all lovely and take the time to explain the rules both in-person at check-in and on the forms they provide at the time of booking. They are not hiding how seriously they take rules like quiet hours, and it will keep campers like me coming back. If you are respectful of the folks around you and especially during the posted quiet hours, you will have no problems.

      The office and shop keep supply of snacks, firewood, and gifts. There are flush toilets mapped in spots of the tent sites (SUCH a pleasant surprise! I was expecting a porta-potty or vault toilet), and hot showers are available at the same complex as the office.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt Pro User
      Apr. 1, 2026

      Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park

      Amenity-Packed Campground in PA Dutch Country

      Set just off I-76 in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, Pinch Pond Family Campground& RV Park is a large, all-in-one, family-focused campground with a layout that feels more like a small neighborhood than a traditional woods-only campsite. While its proximity to the highway makes access easy, the property itself is gated, organized into distinct camping zones and packed with amenities that clearly cater to longer stays and families looking for built-in entertainment.

      HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Full-service resort-style amenities including pool, playground, arcade, laundry, propane refills, dump stations, sports field, picnic tables and in-ground fire rings throughout the property;(2) Wide variety of lodging options including RV sites with 30/50 amp hookups, water, sewer and cable, primitive tent sites, and multiple on-site cottages for non-campers;(3) Gated entrance and very welcoming, helpful staff at check-in with a well-stocked camp store offering snacks, ice cream, sundries and souvenirs;(4) Strong family appeal with fishing pond, barn, open play areas and space for kids to roam safely; and(5) Excellent location for regional attractions including Hershey Park, Chocolate World, Amish countryside tours and the nearby wolf sanctuary with guided educational tours.

      LOWLIGHTS:(1) Immediate proximity to I-76 means persistent highway noise day and night with no real sound buffer;(2) Access is oddly indirect despite being next to the turnpike, requiring a several-mile loop through countryside roads to reach the entrance;(3) Overall layout is wide open with limited natural privacy between many RV sites;(4) Nearby shooting range produces frequent target practice noise, especially noticeable during early morning hours; and(5) Pricing for primitive tent sites feels disproportionately high compared to full-hookup RV rates.

      Happy Camping!

    Guide to Kutztown

    Tent camping options near Kutztown, Pennsylvania range from primitive Appalachian Trail (AT) sites to established campgrounds along rivers and lakes. Most campgrounds in this region sit between 400-800 feet elevation with limestone-based soil that drains well after rainfall. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August. Many primitive campsites require water filtering equipment as potable water access can be limited.

    What to do

    Paddle boarding and kayaking: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers clean, clear water perfect for paddlers. "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," notes one camper at Mauch Chunk Lake Park.

    Hiking trails: Green Lane Park provides multiple well-marked hiking paths surrounding the camping area. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," reports one visitor. The park combines recreational activities with natural areas, making it suitable for day hikes without extensive backcountry experience.

    River access: Campers staying at Riverview Park Campground enjoy direct river access. "This is the perfect place for camping if you are adventuring out on the Lehigh River and want to get an early start or stay the night. The sites are each tent only and located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit," explains one reviewer who appreciated the riverside location.

    What campers like

    Pine forest atmosphere: The AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap provides a natural cushioned camping surface. "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area. This site sits a little ways back from the trail but is a nice quiet and secluded spot," reports one hiker at AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap.

    Valley views: Several sites offer exceptional sightlines. "By far the best campsite option on this section of the AT! 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," shares a camper about the AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap.

    Flat tent surfaces: Many AT-adjacent sites provide relatively level spaces for pitching tents. "A very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group. This site appears to be well-used and has several established areas for sitting and setting up a fire," notes a reviewer about Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite.

    What you should know

    Site privacy varies significantly: Many established campgrounds offer limited separation between sites. "Green Lane is a beautiful park with a small campground. The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you'll definitely be right up on your neighbors," cautions a visitor about Deep Creek Campground.

    Fire ring differences: At AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap, "Each has a stone fire ring and plenty of room for multiple tents. They are surrounded by a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail." However, at Green Lane Park, one camper noted: "The fire rings are big and frustrating, the fire sits on a lifted grate so you go through wood like crazy."

    Water planning essential: Most ridge sites require carrying water. "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge," advises a camper about AT Overlook Campground. When camping at primitive sites, hikers should plan to carry at least 2 liters per person per day during summer months.

    Tips for camping with families

    Consider established campgrounds: For families new to tent camping Kutztown, Pennsylvania established sites provide helpful amenities. "I believe it 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," explains a visitor to Mauch Chunk Lake Park.

    Look for multi-activity options: Campgrounds with swimming, fishing and hiking can keep children engaged. "Beautiful lake beach and canoe and kayak rentals. There's much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by," notes one camper about the variety of family-friendly activities available.

    Check site conditions: For tent camping with children, evaluate ground conditions. "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," advises a Mauch Chunk visitor, suggesting sleeping pads are essential for family comfort.

    Tips from RVers

    Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Kutztown accommodate smaller RVs only. None are classified as big-rig friendly in this region. Visitors to Rolling Hills Retreats note privacy advantages over typical RV parks: "We're completely over having no privacy, worrying about my reactive dog, feeling like we had to follow ridiculous rules when going camping."

    Plan for minimal hookups: Electric connections are limited at most campgrounds in the area. Many tent-focused campgrounds like Riverview Park Campground lack RV-specific amenities entirely, instead catering to tent campers with riverside locations and basic facilities.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kutztown, PA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kutztown, PA is Rolling Hills Retreats with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

    What is the best site to find tent camping near Kutztown, PA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 31 tent camping locations near Kutztown, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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