Camping options near Lake Harmony occupy the forested slopes of the Pocono Mountains at elevations between 1,300-2,200 feet. This region features mixed hardwood forests of oak, maple, and birch trees with tent and RV sites positioned on rocky terrain. Most campgrounds open from April through October, with summer overnight temperatures averaging 55-65°F.
What to do
Boulder field exploration: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, visitors can explore the 16-acre boulder field, a National Natural Landmark. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," writes Mike M.
Kayaking the lake: Otter Lake Camp Resort offers an extensive waterfront with multiple boat launch areas. "The lake is gorgeous. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake. We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite," notes Marlaina M. from Tobyhanna State Park.
Hiking trails access: Campers can access the Appalachian Trail from many nearby sites. "The park has tons of hiking trails, some great views, loads of waterfalls, some swimming. All around a wonderful place to visit for the day or to camp for a few," reports Amber A. about Hickory Run State Park.
Water activities: Most campgrounds feature lakes for swimming and fishing. "We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake, went to bed, woke up to make some breakfast and then we were off to go rafting on the Lehigh river 10 minutes away," shares Emma T. from Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers waterfront sites with direct lake access. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," says Lisa S.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Bathhouse, rec area, pools, playground, outdoor seating areas are all very nice and enjoyable. Would definitely come again!" reports M.S. from Mount Pocono Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. "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 Erik M. about Tobyhanna State Park.
Camp stores: Many campgrounds feature well-stocked stores. "The camp store had good hours and is stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need for a very comfortable stay," explains Bridget D. from Hickory Run State Park.
What you should know
Pet restrictions: Not all campgrounds allow pets. "Have not stayed here but this is listed as pet friendly on thedyrt.com but if you go to the park's website, pets are not allowed," warns Blythe A. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!" notes Angie G. from Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Bear safety protocols: Proper food storage is critical in this region. "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," advises Shirley M. from Hickory Run State Park.
Seasonal variations: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. "We stayed in the outer loop far from the rest of the campground and they only had ports potties and hand sanitizer. I wish we had been on the inner loop for the bathrooms," shares Sarah L. from Hickory Run.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mount Pocono Campground offers facilities specifically for children. "This is a great site, it has running water, it's clean, it has entertainment, and you can get close with your loved ones," explains Ash.
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "Friendly environment, plenty to do with family. Take a walk to the nature trail, go fishing or hiking. Take the kids to the arcade. They had a schedule for events all weekend," recommends Nick L. from Mount Pocono Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs. "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park," mentions Shayna from Hickory Run State Park.
Swimming options: Check for dedicated swimming areas. "There is a huge swimming pool and a toddler's pool. The location is lovely and you are surrounded by the forests of the Poconos," notes Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about Mount Pocono Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Camp Taylor Campground, RVers recommend specific sections. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time," advises Julie F.
Hookup availability: Check for full service sites when booking. "We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade," reports Shirley M. from Hickory Run State Park.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require leveling blocks. "We stayed in site 20. Easy to back in. Didn't need leveling blocks as our site was nice and level," shares Angela from Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups. "Electric and water hookups, no sewer but there's a dump station on the way out," notes Dina S. from Camp Taylor Campground.
