227 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania features several established campgrounds with diverse accommodation options. Keen Lake Resort Campground in nearby Waymart provides tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping facilities with lake access. Clayton Park RV Escape in Lake Ariel itself offers riverside camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites. The area is characterized by forested terrain with multiple lakes and streams, creating opportunities for waterfront camping experiences within a 20-mile radius of Lake Ariel, including Promised Land State Park and Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Most campgrounds in the Lake Ariel region operate seasonally from April through mid-October, with peak season running from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary facilities are standard at developed sites, while more rustic options may have limited amenities. Promised Land State Park features multiple camping areas including Lower Lake Campground with Beechwood, Northwoods, and Rhododendron sections, each offering different levels of privacy and access. Winter closures affect most campgrounds, though some areas remain accessible for day use. A visitor noted that "sites have nice sizable fire pits, but they are very tall. It's difficult to cook over them, and sitting around the campfire in the evening is a much less visually appealing experience."
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Lake Ariel area, with several campgrounds offering direct lake or river access. Campers particularly value the ability to launch kayaks and canoes directly from their sites. Pickerel Point Campground at Promised Land State Park features private lakeside walk-in sites where visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, including beaver sightings. Tobyhanna State Park Campground provides lakeside sites with mountain views that campers describe as "an experience that I will always treasure." Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours beginning at 9 PM, and several prohibit alcohol consumption. Sites with electric hookups are common throughout the region, though primitive camping options with fewer amenities are also available for those seeking a more rustic experience.
"I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. "
"We didn’t have a view of the lake, instead we were in someone’s back yard lol. It wasn’t a big deal. The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important."
"Pros: beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
"Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."
from $20 - $48 / night
Check Availability"We were looking for a lakeside campground with a spacious campsite that could comfortably fit two large tents and two vehicles."
"Breathtaking views from nearby trails and nearby Big Pocono State Park. The park staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about nearby trails and best places to get the most out of the views!"
from $20 - $43 / night
Check Availability"The sites were a little close to each other and where we were in the park was a mixed use area. So we had an RV next to us with the Genny running all day."
"The main reason we didn't do more was the distance. We have a motorhome so we didn't have additional vehicles to get to and from places."
from $20 - $79 / night
Check Availability"Nice surroundings (though nothing extraordinary). Easy access with a sedan. Cons: most sites are very close to one another with little privacy. Fair amount of road noise."
"Recommend Little Falls Trail. We also explored Conservation Island. Many more trails to explore and not enough time. The surrounding town is small and very cute."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"We had a great campsite 038, mainly because we booked the site right next to the restroom and hoped no one would reserve the one closest to it, which ended up being the case."
"The trails are plentiful and scenic. The forest is thick and beautiful throughout the park. We loved the little falls trail for hiking and splashing around in the water."
from $16 / night
Check Availability"Lot of things to do around, from enjoying a day at the lake beach, to hiking on one of numerous hike ng trails, to dining in one of the nearby spots. Highly recommend."
"Access points to several trails are very near the campground. As with all PA state parks, alcohol is prohibited."
from $29 - $43 / night
Check Availability"3 hour drive from NYC, and a wonderful campsite with good weather in the summer - not too hot during the day and nice and cool overnight."
"We stayed in lower lake beechwood site 323. Was decent site only downside was fire pit area was very un-level for camping chairs, otherwise it’s a nice wooded site with privacy."
from $27 - $29 / night
Check Availability"The site itself isn't bad, a lot of woods to tuck into if you camp rite."
"Also saw RV sites that were very close to each other. Our tent site is perfect. An area of the lake is to swim and the other to fish in. Catch and release only. Lots of tress for great shade."
ScoutThis area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
RangerWe stayed here during a road trip from CT to WA and back. This was our first dispersed campsites of the trip and we really enjoyed it here. We camped in our van, and we were impressed that there were 2 bathrooms at the camp and more porta potties by the lake. Enjoyed hiking with our pups in this pretty area, and found some geocaches too!
RangerWe camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
RangerWe booked a cabin at the last minute and were pleasantly surprised that the cabin had heat and electricity! It was very close to the awesome heated bathroom also! We were also able to catch a beautiful sunset! Great camp all around!
TravelerAnother great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.
RangerWe came here 4th of July weekend, and this is one of the things I love about these sites...they had availability! Our site was very big, and was perfect with sone shade and also lots of sun!
RangerOur travel trailer and our friends' pop up both fit on this site with no problem. The only issue we had is that there is a bit of a ditch that turns to mud after a rain. We were off the beaten path so very little traffic. There was a bathroom with pit toilets down the street. Plenty of places to hike and fish also. We loved it here!
RangerWe came here to ride our ATV's...since it is more than 3 hours from home, we decided to book this spot for the night. We have stayed in a bunch of the DWSF sites. This one was kinda meh. Nearer to the road so traffic at all hours. Picnic table and fire ring, and as always, evidence of people chopping down live trees for firewood. Ugh! We set up our tent and had a nice fire, albeit there was broken glass on the ground. Biting flies worked overtime on us. Not a terrible stay, but we prolly won't book this one again. And these sites are no longer free. As out of state-rs, we paid $21 for one night. Still a good deal.
TravelerOnly 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.
The Lake Ariel region sits within the Pocono Mountains at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 78°F during peak camping season between May and September. The area's camping sites near Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania feature sandy soil conditions in many locations that drain well after rainfall, making it resilient for tent camping during typical summer precipitation patterns.
Kayak access from campsites: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, water activities dominate the experience. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome," reports Shannon C., who stayed on a lakeside electric/water site.
Hiking nearby trails: Promised Land State Park offers multiple trail options within minutes of the camping areas. "The whole park is amazing. Recommend Little Falls Trail. We also explored Conservation Island. Many more trails to explore and not enough time," notes Kelly F. about Deerfield Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers at Lake Ariel area campgrounds frequently report wildlife sightings. "Beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless," reports Alaina Z. about her stay at Pickerel Point Campground, adding that "the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
Lake swimming options: Multiple swimming areas exist across the various camping locations near Lake Ariel. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," writes Debbie W. about her experience at Promised Land State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds receive high marks for maintenance. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground," notes Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort Campground. "The showers are coin operated" - a practical detail to remember when planning your visit.
Campsite privacy levels: Campgrounds near Lake Ariel offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Secluded Acres Campground, one camper noted, "Such wonderful rustic sites that are absolutely secluded!!" while Julie reported, "We loved it so much we went back again the next week even though it's two hours away."
Bear activity awareness: Multiple campgrounds report bear sightings. "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent," warns Erik M. about his experience at Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Alcohol policies vary: While some private campgrounds permit alcohol, state parks have restrictions. "The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," notes Nancy L. about Pickerel Point Campground at Promised Land State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate between April and October. "We stayed one night when it happened to rain all evening. So, we stayed inside our camper. We did take a short walk around both camping loops in lighter rain," reports Amy V. about her experience at Lackawanna State Park Campground.
Water activities for children: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers varied water options. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," mentions Emily Z., who adds that the campground is "Great for families. It would be a great place to camp with extended family."
Planned activities availability: Some campgrounds organize programs specifically for younger visitors. "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" explains Mike H. about his experience at Keen Lake Resort Campground.
Site selection for families: When camping with children near Lake Ariel, location matters. "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," advises Emily Z. about Keen Lake, providing practical navigation advice for families planning their first visit.
Electrical hookup reliability: Some campgrounds have aging infrastructure. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, one camper reported, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Site selection for RVs: Clayton Park RV Escape provides dedicated RV facilities near Lake Ariel itself. "A well run, well staffed, facilities are excellent," notes Robert H. about this RV-focused campground, one of the few located directly in Lake Ariel rather than surrounding communities.
Campsite size considerations: Space between sites varies considerably. "The sites seemed a little narrow when we first pulled in, but it was plenty," explains Shannon C. about Keen Lake Resort Campground, highlighting that initial impressions of site spacing may not match the actual camping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available near Lake Ariel, PA?
Several campgrounds are available near Lake Ariel, PA. Secluded Acres Campground in nearby Lakeville offers reservable sites with water and toilets, accommodating both tent campers and RVs. Clayton Park RV Escape is another option right in Lake Ariel with full amenities. The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Lake Ariel features numerous additional camping options within a short drive, including several areas of Promised Land State Park in Greentown and Lackawanna State Park near North Abington Township.
Is primitive camping available at Lake Ariel?
While Lake Ariel itself doesn't offer designated primitive camping areas, nearby options exist for those seeking a more rustic experience. Promised Land State Park offers camping with basic amenities about 20 minutes from Lake Ariel. For truly primitive camping, Tom's Creek Boat In Campsites in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides boat-access-only primitive sites maintained by the National Park Service. These sites have minimal facilities and offer a genuine backcountry experience, though they require transportation by canoe or kayak.
What camping facilities does Secluded Acres Campground in Lake Ariel offer?
Secluded Acres Campground provides a range of camping facilities to accommodate various needs. The campground features water hookups, clean toilet facilities, and is big-rig friendly for RV campers. Sites can be reserved in advance, giving peace of mind for your trip planning. Multiple access options are available including drive-in, boat-in, and walk-in sites. The campground's location near Lake Ariel makes it convenient for water recreation while still providing the natural camping experience many visitors seek.
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