Dispersed camping opportunities surrounding Mehoopany, Pennsylvania center along the Susquehanna River region with elevations ranging between 600-900 feet. The camping season typically extends from April through October, with select year-round facilities available. Seasonal temperature swings affect campsite availability, with summer highs reaching the mid-80s and frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features 22 named waterfalls along well-maintained paths. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained! and the hike back up was again steep but maintained! and you got different falls to look at both ways," notes Anne P.
Boating on private lakes: Lake Front Campsite offers access to a motor-free body of water for peaceful paddling. "This campground has access to a private no motor lake for a calm day on the water," reports Jake C., making it ideal for kayakers seeking quieter alternatives to the more populated waterways.
Family recreation facilities: Pine Valley RV Park & Campground provides multiple activity options beyond just camping. "So many things for kids to do. From boating, to giant swimming inflatables, putt putt even a giant slide. All part of the price of the campground," writes Mommy D., highlighting the value for families visiting the area.
What campers like
Creek-side tent sites: Cozy Creek Family Campground offers prime waterfront primitive camping. "The tent sites are right on the creek. The grounds, the little store/coffee shop and the facilities were pristine," shares louis P., noting the well-maintained facilities despite the rustic setting.
Spacious lakeside sites: Clayton Park RV Escape provides water-view camping with good separation between neighbors. "Excellent family quiet area. Pool boats, hike, relax," says David R., highlighting the combination of privacy and recreation options that campers appreciate.
Shaded wooded campsites: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers deeply forested sites that provide natural cooling. "The campsites are nestled in a deep shady mature forest, and peaceful and quiet due to the wooded aspect and spacing of sites," explains Janet R., who stayed in September at a hike-in site.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds, with some offering no connectivity at all. "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)," reports T K. about Ricketts Glen.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds experience periodic water issues requiring advance planning. "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," notes Lee D.
Campsite leveling needs: Frances Slocum State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Nice level sites easy to back in rv and set up," says John T., though others report variable conditions depending on recent rainfall.
Tips for camping with families
Pool alternatives: When swimming beaches close, look for campgrounds with pool facilities. "The swimming beach looked nice. They do have boat rental. Our site and the others we saw were nicely shaded," notes Amy V. about Lackawanna State Park.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate repellents for mosquitoes and tick prevention. "Mosquitoes and ticks can ruin a good trip, come prepared!" warns Jackie F. from her experience camping in the region.
Educational programming: Seek out campgrounds offering structured activities for children. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R. about recreation options at Lackawanna.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Campground approach roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. "The road in (Vacation lane) is dirt, rough and narrow," cautions April L. about accessing Cozy Creek Family Campground with an RV.
Extended stay considerations: RV camping near Mehoopany often includes seasonal sites that can affect the overall experience. "We were here during the Covid 19 shut downs so nothing was open. Our dogs were able to swim in the beautiful creek and there was only 1 other recreational camper that pulled in for our mid week trip," notes April L., highlighting how occupation levels fluctuate.
Utility hookup reliability: Check electricity capacity before arrival at older campgrounds. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about Lackawanna's electrical infrastructure.
