Camping sites near Lehighton, Pennsylvania are distributed across the eastern Pennsylvania foothills, nestled within the Pocono Mountain region at elevations ranging from 400-1600 feet. Winter camping is available at Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort, while most other campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October. Primitive and developed sites offer variable terrain with some requiring substantial leveling for RVs and trailers.
What to do
Boulder fields exploration: Visit Hickory Run State Park Campground to experience the unique boulder field formations. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," notes Mike M. The boulder fields provide unique hiking and photography opportunities with natural formations not found in many other Pennsylvania parks.
Mountain biking: During warmer months, Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort offers downhill mountain biking using their winter ski infrastructure. "Ride the ski lifts up to the top of the mountain then you get to bike down it, they have rental bikes available or bring your own," says Lois, who also mentions that zip lining and tree-top adventures are available at the resort.
Paddling and fishing: Water activities abound at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, with sites directly on the water. "You can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," explains Lisa S. The park also provides kayak and canoe rentals for visitors who don't bring their own watercraft, with fishing opportunities throughout the lake.
What campers like
Private sites: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Stonybrook RV Resort, which offers well-maintained grounds. "The site was nice and level side to side. Their pool looked very nice although we did not use it," notes Jonathan F., who calls it their "new go to for quick little getaways!"
Clean facilities: Allentown KOA receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms very clean and stocked with stuff you might need," according to Kelly J., who appreciated the campground's location near a stream. The campground also offers large pull-through sites and clean shower facilities.
Trail access: Direct trail connections are a major advantage for several campgrounds. At Locust Lake State Park, visitors enjoy the surrounding recreational opportunities. "Great hiking trails! Lots of mushrooms! Nice walk-in sites for camping," reports Annette M., highlighting the natural surroundings and diverse ecosystem within the park boundaries.
What you should know
Campsite leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area require careful site selection. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, one camper noted, "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." Several reviewers mention similar challenges across multiple campgrounds.
Site size variations: RV sites can be particularly tight at some locations. "The RVs were parked so close together that none of us could use our awnings," reported one camper about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. Site dimensions vary significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate only from April through October, with limited winter camping options. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, as one visitor to Locust Lake State Park noted: "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome... Only downside to our trip was poured every night and one whole day."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers extensive children's facilities. "Beautiful camp sites, fun family activities and hiking! Highly recommend," writes Wendy S. The campground includes a "huge playground" that keeps children entertained between other activities.
Beach swimming: Lakes with designated swimming areas provide alternative water recreation. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, one visitor shared: "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming. The campsites were adequate size." The beach area includes lifeguards during peak summer season.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds schedule regular events for children. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," according to Nick M., who appreciates the organized family programs throughout the camping season.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at several campgrounds but require advance booking. "We had a full hook-up 50 Amp Premium Back-in site... The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup," reports Matt S. about Pocono Point.
Entry challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access points for large rigs. One visitor noted about Stonybrook RV Resort: "The entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn't easy in a 45' motorhome towing a Jeep." Calling ahead for entry route recommendations is advised.
Bathroom access: Consider site location relative to facilities. "We were 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," shared Sarah L. about Hickory Run, emphasizing the importance of checking facility proximity when booking.
