Campgrounds near Lehigh Valley sit within Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley region, characterized by wooded uplands, limestone valleys, and elevations ranging from 250 to 1,700 feet. The area's climate includes warm, humid summers with average temperatures around 85°F and cold winters dropping below freezing. Weekend camping reservations often fill quickly during peak season from May through October, with campgrounds typically located within 20-30 miles of the Lehigh Valley.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Boulder Woods Campground features an extensive disc golf course popular with enthusiasts. "They also have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf," shares Erik W., who visited the campground in August 2017.
Hiking the Pinnacle Trail: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers direct access to premier hiking routes. "It's right at the base of one of the most popular hiking trail, The Pinnacle. It's nestled in the woods and is very rustic. Really gives you that camping feel," explains Darrien K. The trail connects to the Appalachian Trail system, providing opportunities for both day hikes and longer treks.
Exploring boulder fields: The region features unique geological formations that provide natural playgrounds. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. Primitive but fun!" reports Terri S. about her family's experience at Blue Rocks. The campground is named for its distinctive blue-tinted rock formations that children particularly enjoy exploring.
Fishing opportunities: French Creek State Park Campground offers multiple fishing locations across two lakes. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes Jen R. Hopewell Lake and Scotts Run Lake both permit fishing, with ice fishing available during winter months when ice thickness is monitored.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Tent campers appreciate private spots away from RVs. "Lake Towhee Park Campground: I rate based on desire for at least a moderate wilderness type experience with at least some camp site privacy. Site Privacy: Outside sites: Great. Site Spacing: Very large sites," reports Roger W., who particularly valued the deciduous forest setting with fall colors.
Stream-side camping: Allentown KOA features sites positioned along moving water. "Really nice campground. Our spot backed up right to a creek and it was beautiful," shares Matt R., who appreciated the natural setting. The stream provides natural white noise and creates habitat for local wildlife.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention the maintenance standards at area campgrounds. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground, highlighting the practical amenities that enhance comfort during extended stays.
Natural swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation beyond just fishing. "They have a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," describes Jen R. These water features provide cooling options during Pennsylvania's humid summer months.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Rain can create challenging conditions at some campgrounds. "Don't come if you're in a tent and it has been or will rain. It becomes flooded or turns into a mud pit," advises LU D. about Tohickon Family Campground, highlighting the need to check weather forecasts and potentially bring additional ground cover.
Campground personalities: Sites vary significantly in their atmosphere and demographic mix. "Very small campground. Can be tight getting around with a bigger camper if not experienced. 2 different playgrounds and a pool that could use some updating," shares Brandon W. about Allentown KOA, noting the compact layout.
Seasonal occupation: Many local campgrounds have long-term residents. "Half of this campground is permanent camper site rentals. It was a little too close to each other and not enough privacy," Jonathan R. explains about Ringing Rocks Family Campground, which affects the availability of short-term sites.
Booking realities: Site availability can be limited, especially for popular weekends. "The online booking system isn't very accurate as it said they were sold out and there was many open sites all weekend," notes Marc P., suggesting direct phone contact might yield better results than online systems.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: Colonial Woods Family Resort offers structured entertainment for children. "We had such a fun time during the summer between the pool, fishing at the pond and all the amazing amenities! Just walking around the campground is beautiful," shares Michelle D., highlighting the comprehensive recreation options.
Halloween weekends: Several campgrounds offer special themed activities during autumn. "We went on Halloween weekend and they had so much for the kids to do! Friendly staff and clean sites!" enthuses Shannon C. about Ringing Rocks Family Campground. These themed weekends typically include costume contests, trick-or-treating, and decorated campsites.
Playgrounds and splash areas: Many campgrounds feature multiple play zones for different age groups. "The pool and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times," notes Nicole S. about Colonial Woods, making it suitable for families with children of varying ages.
Pet-friendly options: For families camping with dogs, look for designated pet-friendly loops. "We stayed in Loop C, which is the only dog friendly loop in the campground. I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved," reports Jen R. about French Creek State Park, noting that pet policies are generally well-enforced.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: Boulder Woods Campground offers parking assistance for larger rigs. "The spots are tight to get into but the staff will offer to park your camper using your vehicle. I let them park mine and I'm really glad I did. It was super tight," shares Erik W., highlighting the value of accepting help with difficult parking situations.
Age restrictions: Some campgrounds limit seasonal camping based on RV age. "They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer. Ours is 13. Very disappointed. But for a weekend away, it's a great place," explains Caryn I. about Boulder Woods, noting an important consideration for RVers with older models.
Level parking areas: French Creek State Park receives praise for its site design. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," notes Jen R., an important feature for RVers concerned about stabilization. The paved pads make leveling simpler and provide a clean foundation for outdoor living spaces.
Road conditions: RVers should research access routes carefully. "The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed (almost took my ac out with a huge limb)," cautions Brian C. about Colonial Woods Family Resort, emphasizing that site accessibility varies significantly between campgrounds.
Legend
