Tent camping options near Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania extend into the surrounding Pocono region with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet. The area features mixed hardwood forests dominated by oak, maple and beech trees with summer temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than nearby urban areas. Annual rainfall averages 48 inches, creating favorable conditions for the numerous streams that flow through many camping areas.
What to do
Hiking at Pinchot State Forest: Manny Gordon Recreation Area serves as a gateway to miles of forest trails. "Very open, plenty of space" according to Gavin S., who notes the convenient camping setup with "previously stocked wood from other people."
Paddling to island campsites: The Delaware Water Gap area offers unique boat-in camping experiences approximately 30 minutes from Lake Ariel. Sean M. describes Namanock Island as "super clean and well maintained" with "lots of peace and natural all around" including "tons of bald eagles flying near the site."
Fossil hunting and waterfall exploration: Historic areas along the Delaware River provide opportunities for unique outdoor activities. John B. mentions that near Sandyston Boat In Campsites, "Within minutes on the Pennsylvania side of the river you can hike to Raymondskill Falls, as well as search for abandoned/forgotten homes and mills, or try your luck at fossil and artifact hunting."
Stargazing on river islands: The Delaware River camping area offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. One camper notes that on Namanock Island, "once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river. You are camped on the side of the island that views Pennsylvania's shore. Now, no lights means an incredible view of the night sky."
What campers like
Privacy at walk-in sites: Campers appreciate the seclusion offered at tent-specific areas. Heather T. describes Oh! Pear Orchards as having "spacious sites next to a beautiful stream" with "just enough shade to stay cool" and "wide, open undeveloped space."
River island solitude: The boat-in camping options on Delaware River islands provide remarkable isolation. John B. explains that at Namanock Island "you totally feel that your party is alone out on the river" and describes it as "one of the best sites I have ever stayed in. Always Clean, very spacious, great views."
Accessible primitive facilities: Even remote sites often maintain basic facilities. At Sandyston Boat In Campsites, John B. notes this is "one of the rare primitive sites along the river to feature an outhouse" which some campers appreciate for privacy.
Forest canopy protection: The wooded areas provide natural temperature regulation. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Lindsay D. appreciated the "good hammocking trees" at this "nice quiet primitive camping" location that wasn't crowded and offered "plenty of privacy from other sites."
What you should know
Seasonal insect awareness: Ticks are prevalent in warmer months. Gavin S. warns about "lots of ticks" at Manny Gordon Recreation Area, recommending insect repellent spray.
Water access varies: Many tent sites require bringing your own drinking water. Some river campsites like Sandyston have steeper terrain access challenges, with John B. noting "a very steep and above average height to the shoreline making unloading both more tiring and more of a hazard."
Fire restriction periods: While most campgrounds permit fires, seasonal bans may apply during dry conditions. Sean M. advises paddlers to "stop at one of the many places along the way to buy fire wood" when heading to island campsites, as collecting sufficient firewood can be challenging in heavily-used areas.
Gear transport considerations: Walk-in sites require planning for equipment movement. At Oh! Pear Orchards, Heather T. mentions "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site."
Tips for camping with families
Shelter options for beginners: For those new to tent camping, some parks offer basic cabins. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Dwight D. describes the shelter as "what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Site selection for convenience: Choose locations with appropriate amenities for children. Kelsey K. found Jenny Jump State Forest ideal because "The bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean."
River safety for youth paddlers: When planning Delaware River camping with children, consider water conditions. Sean M. warns about return paddling challenges: "I thought it would a good idea to paddle down stream and back up to Milford beach, Boy was I wrong! Took about 4.5 hours to paddle 3 miles."
Activities near campsites: Look for camping with built-in recreational options. Fransheska A. enjoyed Jenny Jump State Forest because they "had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds near Lake Ariel offer powered sites for smaller RVs. Caffrey Recreation Area provides electric hookups along with drinking water and shower facilities for RV campers who prefer established grounds.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise despite forested settings. Jocelyn G. noted at Jenny Jump State Forest that while "the camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy" and the park is "high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," her "only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Site terrain challenges: Tent platforms and leveling can be issues at some locations. Seth K. describes Jenny Jump sites as "hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks."
