Promised Land State Park and surrounding areas offer pet friendly camping options within the Pocono Mountains at an elevation of 1,800 feet. The region's dense forests and abundant lakes create cooler summer temperatures compared to nearby cities, with nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 50s even during summer months. Campers will find a mix of state park and private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of Lords Valley.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Pickerel Point Campground, some lakeside sites allow direct water access. "I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," notes Nancy L. The clear water makes for excellent paddling conditions.
Winter recreation: Unlike many camping areas, Pickerel Point Campground remains open year-round. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," writes Mara S., showing the park's four-season versatility.
Historic exploration: Take a short drive to nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area where Dingmans Campground serves as a base for exploring historic sites. "Dingman's is federal property and patrolled by federal park rangers. By day they cruise around in their SUVs and by night on foot," explains Rob M. The campground sits near historic Dingmans Ferry, one of the oldest continuously operating ferries in the United States.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary: At Deerfield Campground, site selection makes a significant difference in your experience. "Sites were a good size and not on top of each other. Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before," reports Siobhan D., highlighting the need to prepare adequately before arrival.
Seasonal flexibility: Pet owners appreciate that Lower Lake Campground Northwoods Area operates when other parks have closed for the season. "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized," shares Tiffany K., noting late-season accommodations for pet owners.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watchers find excellent opportunities at campsites throughout the region. "Did a small part of the Appalachian trail while there (about 15 miles). Would love to go back when I'm in better shape and try the whole trail," mentions Stephanie T. from Stokes State Forest, where clear streams and abundant wildlife create nature observation opportunities for campers with pets.
What you should know
Campsite privacy considerations: Many campsites throughout Promised Land State Park have limited separation. "The sites are on top of each other and it was very full on a Saturday night. But neighbors were nice and the bathrooms were very clean," notes Imke R. about her Deerfield experience. Weekday visits often provide more space and quiet.
Bear-aware camping required: Black bears are active in the area, requiring proper food storage. "Beware of bears!" warns Annette M. at Lower Lake Campground Rhododendron Area. Several campgrounds provide bear-proof storage containers, but not all sites have them.
Limited cell service: Communication can be challenging in this mountainous region. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," mentions Mara S. about her winter camping experience. Plan accordingly by downloading maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity options: Families appreciate the diverse recreation options at The Pines Campground. "We stayed in the pines and it was fantastic. It rained almost the whole weekend but we still got to walk a bit. We were very close to the beach and bathrooms. Lots of wildlife to see as well!" shares Jess H., highlighting the campground's child-friendly amenities.
Educational programs: Many families take advantage of ranger-led activities. "We have three boys 5 and under and were impressed that they got a bag full of stuff when we checked in. It was also a pleasant surprise that they offered environmental education programs," explains Greg S. The bear presentations prove particularly popular with children.
Site selection for families: Look for pull-through sites for easier setup with children. "I stayed at site 11 on Lake Ocquittunk. While making reservations it said almost all sites were full but upon arrival the vast majority of sites were empty which made for a quiet/relaxing night," notes Josh S., pointing out that online availability doesn't always reflect actual conditions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: For RV campers seeking pet friendly camping near Lords Valley, Pennsylvania, hookup options vary significantly between campgrounds. "I stayed for three nights in a pull through trailer site with 50 AMP and 30 AMP electric. Easy to get in and out of, nice and shady, big spaces so you were not on top of one another," reports Robert J. about The Pines Campground.
Water access limitations: Many RV sites lack year-round water connections. "Stayed in a spot without water hook up. All spigots to fill camper with water were situated just off main driving lanes resulting in a lot of congestion of cars behind us when attempting to fill tanks," warns Stan W. Plan water fill-ups during non-peak times.
Weather considerations: RVers should prepare for rapid temperature changes. "The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," mentions a winter visitor. Electric hookups become especially valuable during shoulder seasons when nighttime temperatures can drop significantly.
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