Camping near Mehoopany, Pennsylvania offers direct access to the Endless Mountains region at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,300 feet. The area experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows regularly dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October with limited winter accessibility at select locations.
What to do
Hiking scenic trails: Worlds End State Park Campground provides access to numerous well-marked hiking paths through the Endless Mountains. "The trails are very well marked and most of them prohibited hunting but when we tried to hike to Cottonwood Falls, hunting was allowed; since we were not wearing blaze orange, we decided to turn back," notes Lee D. The High Rock Trail is particularly recommended for its challenging terrain.
Kayaking and fishing: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers excellent water recreation options on its lake. "No gas boats are allowed on the lake (cool!)," reports David, making it ideal for peaceful paddling. The park also features numerous fishing spots with ample shoreline access for anglers of all skill levels.
Swimming options: Frances Slocum State Park Campground provides swimming alternatives beyond lake access. "Cute little park. Nice lake for kayaking but not for swimming although there is a big pool," says Annette M. The pool area includes designated swimming zones with lifeguards present during peak summer months.
What campers like
Wide range of accommodation types: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers diverse camping options beyond standard sites. "We stayed in the large loop, which is a peninsula on Lake Jean. Many of the sites have lake views," reports Lee D. The variety extends to both tent and RV-friendly sites throughout different campground loops.
Creek access for cooling off: Slumber Valley Campground provides excellent water features directly adjacent to campsites. "The campsites are huge- Plenty of room for activities... and the best of all... the beautiful Meshoppen Creek. We stayed right along the water!" shares Corey P. The creek offers natural cooling during hot summer months with safe wading areas.
Evening quiet: Many campgrounds enforce noise regulations that maintain peaceful environments. "Quiet hours are 9 pm– 8 am, which is more restrictive than other state parks," notes a reviewer about Ricketts Glen. This creates ideal conditions for stargazing and enjoying evening campfires without disruption from neighboring sites.
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Some campgrounds experience water availability problems. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," explains a Ricketts Glen visitor. Always check water status before arrival.
Variable site privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between campgrounds and loops. "Sites aren't too on top of each other. Easily accessible overflow parking. Our site was on a small stream so very buggy, but we also got to hear bullfrogs," notes Kate J. about Worlds End State Park Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require careful navigation. "The road in (Vacation lane) is dirt, rough and narrow. There is presently no gate as well so the public can just drive in," reports April L. about Cozy Creek Family Campground. Consider vehicle ground clearance when planning your visit.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Highland Campgrounds offers family-friendly recreation areas. "Office is clean and a combined country store with fresh produce in the outdoor fridge and bug spray and essentials in the office area. Rec room and bathrooms are older, but vintage. Playground is also older but also gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin," shares Jennifer R.
Swimming and recreation options: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Mehoopany feature water recreation areas suitable for children. "Great hiking! There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" notes Lexi about Ricketts Glen State Park. The combination of hiking and swimming provides full-day activity options.
Store amenities: On-site stores provide convenient access to essentials. "The grounds, the little store/coffee shop and the facilities were pristine," reports Louis P. about Cozy Creek Family Campground. These stores typically stock basic groceries, firewood, and camping supplies to reduce travel into town.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Cozy Creek Family Campground offers full hookup sites but with limitations. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," reports one camper about a nearby state park. Always bring surge protectors and adapters.
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C," notes James S. about his experience at Ricketts Glen State Park.
Seasonal availability: Pet-friendly campgrounds near Mehoopany typically operate on limited schedules. "We only stayed here one weekend when one of our usual Halloween camping spots was already booked. Pull through site was spacious and easy to get to- though ours was not very wooded," shares Gayle B. about Shore Forest Campground. Most campgrounds close by late October with few winter options.
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