The Poconos region surrounds Lake Ariel with mixed hardwood forests at elevations ranging from 1,300-1,800 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 55°F to 80°F, with higher humidity levels near the lakes. Campgrounds in this area operate primarily from April through October, with many tent sites situated on sloping terrain requiring careful tent placement.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Tobyhanna State Park Campground offers a 5-mile trail around the lake on well-marked paths, taking most hikers about 1.5-2 hours to complete. "You can swim in the lake in the summer or do a 5-mile hike around the lake along well-marked walk paths. There are at least two parking lots (no parking fees)," notes one visitor. Bring insect repellent before starting any hike in the area.
Lake activities beyond swimming: Keen Lake Resort Campground provides multiple water activity options beyond standard beach swimming. "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," shares one camper. The campground offers rentals for paddle boats, row boats, and canoes for those without personal watercraft.
Explore boulder fields: Hickory Run State Park Campground features unusual geological formations worth the drive from Lake Ariel. "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," advises a visitor. The park includes 44 miles of trails rated from easy to difficult.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Valley View Farm and Campground maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms and campsites. "The owners are very nice and helpful. Very clean sites and bathrooms. Quiet and peaceful at night and the other campers were very friendly," mentions one satisfied camper. The campground provides a quiet alternative to the busier waterfront locations.
Fishing opportunities: Otter Lake Camp Resort offers fishing directly from lakefront sites for those who secure premium spots. "I loved being lakefront with full hook up. Such a beautiful and peaceful place," states one camper. The resort allows fishing from shore and rents small fishing boats for those wanting to access deeper water.
Spacious camping loops: Lackawanna State Park Campground features a newer camping area with full hookup sites. "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers," reports one visitor. The park's layout includes camping areas separated from day-use facilities, creating a more peaceful overnight experience.
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Several campgrounds report bear sightings, particularly at Tobyhanna State Park. "Just stayed 2 nights with my 7 yrs. old daughter we had a blast. Everyone was very nice camp host and DCNR were very helpful. We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent," warns a camper. Never leave food unattended and secure all items in vehicles when not at your site.
Limited shower facilities: Some outer camping loops at Hickory Run State Park have only pit toilets and no showers. "The inner loops have nice bathrooms. We were in the outer loop far from the rest of the campground and they only had ports potties and hand sanitizer," notes one camper. Plan accordingly if showers are essential to your camping experience.
Site positioning considerations: Mount Pocono Campground offers wooded sites that provide shade but may be limited in size. "The tent sights are the small side (about 15'x35') but the atmosphere is relaxed and you are surrounded by shady trees," reports a visitor. Most Lake Ariel area tent sites are intended for 1-2 standard tents, with vehicle parking often located adjacent rather than directly on the site.
Tips for camping with families
Structured activities: Honesdale - Poconos KOA provides organized entertainment for children. "Activities for the kids like movies (it was Moana), a pool, mini golf and a bounce area. We had a fantastic first camping experience for the kids (and dogs)," shares a parent. The KOA offers a predictable family-friendly environment with scheduled activities posted daily.
Swimming options beyond lakes: Secluded Acres Campground offers alternatives when lake swimming conditions aren't ideal. "This campground is big. Many people live here, but there are spots to rent. Primitive site or not, they have a spot for you. An area of the lake is to swim and the other to fish in," explains one visitor. Several area campgrounds maintain separate swimming facilities to accommodate different water preferences.
Biking considerations: Some campgrounds restrict bicycle riding after dark, which may impact evening activities. At Otter Lake Camp Resort, "Security was so annoying about riding bikes after a certain time... we were actually told we couldn't play bingo because we wouldn't be done before it started to get dark so bring our bikes back then try to come back," reports one family. Check specific campground rules regarding bike use if this activity is important to your children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality variations: Some campers report electrical issues at certain campgrounds. At Lackawanna State Park, one RVer noted, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained." Test electrical connections before setting up completely.
Site selection strategy: At Keen Lake Resort, site selection significantly impacts experience. "We had a great time despite cold wet weather. Our site was probably one of the worst in the place but we were able to scope out others that we would prefer for our next visit... If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," advises an experienced camper. Many Lake Ariel area campgrounds have significant elevation changes requiring careful site selection for larger RVs.
Seasonal site availability: Many Lake Ariel campgrounds have high percentages of seasonal campers, limiting availability for short-term visitors. One camper at Mount Pocono Campground noted, "Many seasonal sites with friendly people," reflecting the community atmosphere but also indicating potential reservation challenges. Make reservations 3-6 months in advance for summer weekend stays.
