The Lake Ariel region sits within the Pocono Mountains at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. Summer temperatures average 78°F during peak camping season between May and September. The area's camping sites near Lake Ariel, Pennsylvania feature sandy soil conditions in many locations that drain well after rainfall, making it resilient for tent camping during typical summer precipitation patterns.
What to do
Kayak access from campsites: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, water activities dominate the experience. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake. It was awesome," reports Shannon C., who stayed on a lakeside electric/water site.
Hiking nearby trails: Promised Land State Park offers multiple trail options within minutes of the camping areas. "The whole park is amazing. Recommend Little Falls Trail. We also explored Conservation Island. Many more trails to explore and not enough time," notes Kelly F. about Deerfield Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campers at Lake Ariel area campgrounds frequently report wildlife sightings. "Beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless," reports Alaina Z. about her stay at Pickerel Point Campground, adding that "the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
What campers like
Lake swimming options: Multiple swimming areas exist across the various camping locations near Lake Ariel. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," writes Debbie W. about her experience at Promised Land State Park.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds receive high marks for maintenance. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground," notes Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort Campground. "The showers are coin operated" - a practical detail to remember when planning your visit.
Campsite privacy levels: Campgrounds near Lake Ariel offer varying degrees of seclusion. At Secluded Acres Campground, one camper noted, "Such wonderful rustic sites that are absolutely secluded!!" while Julie reported, "We loved it so much we went back again the next week even though it's two hours away."
What you should know
Bear activity awareness: Multiple campgrounds report bear sightings. "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent," warns Erik M. about his experience at Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Alcohol policies vary: While some private campgrounds permit alcohol, state parks have restrictions. "The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," notes Nancy L. about Pickerel Point Campground at Promised Land State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate between April and October. "We stayed one night when it happened to rain all evening. So, we stayed inside our camper. We did take a short walk around both camping loops in lighter rain," reports Amy V. about her experience at Lackawanna State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers varied water options. "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," mentions Emily Z., who adds that the campground is "Great for families. It would be a great place to camp with extended family."
Planned activities availability: Some campgrounds organize programs specifically for younger visitors. "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!" explains Mike H. about his experience at Keen Lake Resort Campground.
Site selection for families: When camping with children near Lake Ariel, location matters. "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool," advises Emily Z. about Keen Lake, providing practical navigation advice for families planning their first visit.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup reliability: Some campgrounds have aging infrastructure. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, one camper reported, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Site selection for RVs: Clayton Park RV Escape provides dedicated RV facilities near Lake Ariel itself. "A well run, well staffed, facilities are excellent," notes Robert H. about this RV-focused campground, one of the few located directly in Lake Ariel rather than surrounding communities.
Campsite size considerations: Space between sites varies considerably. "The sites seemed a little narrow when we first pulled in, but it was plenty," explains Shannon C. about Keen Lake Resort Campground, highlighting that initial impressions of site spacing may not match the actual camping experience.
