Camping spots near Martins Creek, Pennsylvania offer terrain variations that range from mountaintop forests to riverfront lowlands. The region sits within the folded Appalachian Ridge and Valley province, with elevations varying from 300 feet along the Delaware River to nearly 1,500 feet at nearby mountain peaks. Many campgrounds maintain seasonal operations between April and October due to average winter temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Wolf watching tours: Camp Taylor Campground maintains the Lakota Wolf Preserve on-site where campers receive discounted tours. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private... You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," notes Julie F.
Hiking mountain trails: The area features multiple elevation changes and varied terrain for hikers of all abilities. A visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest mentioned, "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany."
Rock exploration: Just 20 miles south of Martins Creek, Ringing Rocks Park offers a unique geological experience. "Ringing Rocks county park and the kids were having so much fun making music they didn't want to leave. Made a last minute decision to try out Ringing Rocks Family Campground 2 minutes up the road," shares Justin B., highlighting this unusual attraction where certain rocks produce metallic sounds when struck.
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: Sites along the Delaware River consistently receive high ratings for their accessibility and views. According to Mitchell E. from Worthington State Forest Campground, "Our campsite was located along the Delaware river with a short walk down to be able to launch our canoe and kayak. With the exception of a few noisy campers up from us it was an enjoyable time. The water is rather warm and swimming was enjoyable."
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the spacing and natural barriers between camping spots. As Christina H. notes about Mountainview Campground, "This place was actually fantastic, I don't really have anything negative to say about it. The whole scene was exactly what I love about camping, a nice little remote campground in the mountains... Beautifully secluded and quiet. Pretty rare for campgrounds in NJ."
Clean facilities: Reviewers frequently mention the condition of bathrooms and showers as important factors. "The bathrooms were super clean and...actually smelled good??? Maybe they were just cleaned or they are just really well cared for. Either way, it was unusual for a campsite," reports one camper about Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the region require advance booking, especially for summer weekends. Kathy G. from Driftstone Campground advises, "They don't guarantee a specific site, but can guarantee a section. The sites are all large, and easy to get in and out of. Sites include water, electric and cable."
Wildlife encounters: Bears are present throughout the region. At Worthington State Forest, Harry H. mentioned, "We heard about some bear incidents here recently but we didn't encounter any or any evidence of them," while others report deer, fox, and beaver sightings at various campgrounds.
Road access limitations: Several campgrounds have restricted road access that may challenge larger vehicles. Jim G. warns about Driftstone: "PLEASE NOTE: if you are towing or have a motorhome, make sure you follow the directions on the website. Coming in from the wrong road could lead you to a hairpin turn and steep hill."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Mountain Vista Campground offers family-friendly water features according to J K.: "Their pool and kiddie splash pad is well kept as are the rest of the facilities. We did the gas saver program for the second time this June and invited lots of friends and family up and everyone had a blast!"
Kid-focused activities: Several campgrounds schedule regular events for younger campers. "We were in site A22 and loved it. It was their last weekend of the season-weekend before Halloween. They offered different activities. And had (socially distanced) trick or treating for kids!" shares Angela about Mountain Vista Campground.
Playgrounds and open spaces: Camp Taylor Campground receives praise for its family amenities. Dan B. notes, "My daughter and I have made Camp Taylor our annual spot for the past 4-5 years and it just keeps getting better. Hiking to the Wolf Preserve, paddleboats, mini golf, swimming in the lake... There are so many things to do, and they keep all of the facilities updated and in great shape."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: For RV campers at Spruce Run Recreation Area, Douglas P. recommends, "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs."
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by campground and site location. Ruette W. shares about Spruce Run: "There are some RV sites with water & electric which are not on the water, but in the parking lot. I would consider getting one on the water to enjoy the water and one in the parking lot to hook up the RV. It's kind of worth it."
Dump station access: Limited sewer hookups mean planning for dump station use. Teresa from Mountain Vista notes, "Our site was a good size and the facilities were clean. We live not too far away and wanted to stay close to home for our first trip with the camper," though she cautions about visitor fees for those who don't use facilities.
