Tent campsites near Martins Creek, Pennsylvania cluster around the Kittatinny Ridge area at elevations between 500-1500 feet, with river valleys flanking either side. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Fall camping is particularly popular due to moderate temperatures and reduced insect activity compared to the humid summer months.
What to do
Kayaking the Delaware River: Access boat-in only sites like Walter's River Campsite in the Delaware Water Gap. The river offers gentle Class I rapids suitable for beginners. "Upon leaving this site you will only travel down river about 30-45 minutes before you come upon Shawnee Golf Course. Its pretty neat to see, the last few holes of the course are on an island mid-river," notes reviewer John B.
Appalachian Trail hiking: Several primitive camping options connect directly to the AT. The George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter provides a stopping point after the challenging Lehigh Gap climb. "A single-level open-sided AT shelter near the Lehigh Gap trailhead. The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers," writes Asher K.
Freshwater fishing: Several sites offer direct river access for anglers. The Delaware River contains smallmouth bass, walleye, and trout. Many locals frequent the campsites specifically for fishing access. At Walter's River Campsite, "as dusk fell, a small group of local fishermen came walking through the camp to access the river. It turns out the locals know this place well and it is very popular with the anglers."
What campers like
Relative seclusion: The hike-in or boat-in requirements for many sites create natural crowd control. At Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain, Nick E. notes, "This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire."
Natural water sources: Many tent camping locations offer springs or river access. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, the pond provides recreation options: "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
Wildlife viewing: The region's diverse habitats support abundant wildlife. At AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap, Asher K. encountered unexpected wildlife: "When I was up here I came across a flock of wild turkeys who thoroughly scared me when they flew off. I was already on edge since there are several signs warning of high bear activity."
What you should know
Water access considerations: Most primitive sites require you to either filter water or carry it in. At Round Valley State Park Campground, Stuart K. advises, "While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don't get sick."
Boat-in site navigation: River campsites require paddling equipment and proper planning. For Alosa Campsites, Stephanie S. explains, "Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access. There is an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park."
Variable terrain conditions: Many sites feature rocky or uneven ground. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Seth K. reports, "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with accessible amenities: For newer campers with children, some locations offer more facilities. At Jenny Jump State Forest, Fransheska A. recommends, "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept."
Pack appropriate gear for seasonal conditions: Weather varies dramatically by season. At Round Valley, James R. suggests, "There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water."
Evaluate hiking distances: Many tent campsites require significant hikes. At Round Valley State Park Campground, Janine W. cautions, "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options within 10 miles: Most primitive camping near Martins Creek accommodates tents only. The closest RV-friendly options require driving. At Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms, Jen R. explains the site's limitations: "We are avid campers ranging from our early days of remote, rustic tent camping with just the two of us and 20 years later upgraded to our travel trailer that houses our two kids and two dogs... This would be great for a family who are just starting to get interested in camping and would like to experience it first without making a large investment into buying your own equipment."
Consider tent platform sites for truck campers: Some locations that don't accommodate full RVs may work for truck campers. Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers alternative structures: "Tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms. Cabins come in various sizes."
Base camping alternatives: Some campers use tent sites as a base while keeping their RV elsewhere. For accessibility between camping options, Wooded Campground provides flexibility: "Perfect land for an overnight before hitting the trail. There's open field and wooded options, and the hosts Mel and Jeff couldn't have been more accommodating."
