Tent camping near Lemont, Pennsylvania offers access to Pennsylvania's ridge and valley region within the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet. The area falls within the Rothrock and Bald Eagle State Forest systems, covering over 200,000 acres of public land. Weekday campers often find greater solitude, especially during spring and fall shoulder seasons when temperatures typically range from 45-75°F.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Access the Midstate Trail from Penn Roosevelt State Park Campground, which connects to numerous forest paths. "A quiet, peaceful campground. The area has lots of hikes to offer including the Alan Seeger State Forest, Midstate Trail and several others," notes camper Denise D.
Creek exploration: Many campsites at Ravensburg State Park Campground sit near a flowing creek with swimming spots. "There are few hiking trails; short and long that take you to beautiful views along the creek with a couple of places deep enough to swim," explains Laura.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural location limits light pollution, making night sky viewing exceptional. At Star Lee Farm, "There's a huge field to star gaze as well as taking pictures... Service is a little sketch but it's perfect for those who want to completely escape the business of modern world," shares Tiana S.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Long Acres on Clover Creek offers tent sites away from crowds. "The secluded area combined with the creek nearby made for a great escape from reality. The stars are so bright out here," according to Sarah A., who appreciated the "close access to state game lands and nearby hiking trails and fishing spots."
Natural sound barriers: The position of many sites creates privacy between campers. At Ravensburg State Park, "There are bushes and trees between the sites and it feels very private. Sometimes it can feel too secluded but the park ranger drives through a number of times," notes Traci F.
Ecological features: Several campgrounds have environmental highlights. At Star Lee Farm, "if you're a bee enthusiast they grow their own honey in the property and you're more than welcome to walk around and look at all the boxes," reports Tiana S.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. At Reeds Gap State Park Campground, Danielle C. advises to "Put your phone away cuz there's no cell service here! Nice and peaceful with a dozen or so tent only sites."
Limited amenities at some sites: Facilities vary significantly between locations. Penn Roosevelt offers "Beautiful primitive campground (tent only). Get a site on the outside towards the water. They are spaced out and peaceful. Has restrooms (no shower), picnic table, and fire pit at each site," according to Joann&WellsThePup I.
Navigation challenges: Forest roads can be confusing without proper directions. Sarah C. warns about Ravensburg: "Park is easily accessible from I-80, just be aware of your directions and make sure they're taking you to the park via Rocky Road. Mine did not, and I ended up down a seasonal road that did not end at the park entrance."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities for kids: Playground facilities make some sites more family-friendly. At Reeds Gap, "It's so peaceful and serene. There's a nice creek that rund through it, picnic pavilions and a playground for the kids!" shares Rebecca G.
Bathroom considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Nancy's Boat To Shore Campground, access requires planning as "These campsites are accessible by boat ONLY! They are in an area of the lake that has a lot of boat traffic, the waterfront spots usually book a few weeks in advance," explains Kristen H.
Noise factors: Traffic and other campers can affect family camping experiences. For Ravensburg, Andrew G. mentions, "Only issue is the campgrounds are close to the road and therefore are loud at night occasionally." Similarly, at Nancy's Boat To Shore, Kristen H. notes "Some weekend get slightly loud because of college kids, but most are mindful of younger children if you ask them to keep it down."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most tent camping areas near Lemont have size restrictions for vehicles. At Penn Roosevelt, one camper warns, "If you have a trailer, I do not recommend this spot. There is a very tight hairpin turn on the way in. My six foot long trailer barely made the turn!"
Self-sufficient camping: Limited RV hookups require preparation. While Reeds Gap State Park does have some amenities, camper Cheryl K. notes, "Stayed here on a Sunday night without a reservation. We were the only ones there. Pay by honor system at the park office... Water is near the picnic pavilion."
Site selection for small trailers: Choose tent camping areas carefully if bringing a small camper. At Ravensburg, the "decent amount to offer" includes options for compact trailers, but as Traci F. advises, "They have tent pads which are nice but we have a 10x20 tent so we pick a site that the pad is flush with the surrounding ground."
