Campgrounds near Middleport, Pennsylvania offer diverse experiences within Pennsylvania's Appalachian Mountain region, where elevations range from 800 to 1,500 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically reaching 75-85°F during camping season, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions. Most campgrounds in this region operate from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Boulder field exploration at Hickory Run: The unique geological formation at Hickory Run State Park Campground draws visitors year-round. One camper noted, "A ton to explore and a huge frisbee golf course. Hike to the waterfall, it is beautiful."
Stream activities for cooling off: Several campgrounds feature accessible creeks perfect for wading. At Lake Glory Campground, "Kids can wade in the water to cool off while parents are chatting and cooking just few feet away." These creek-side sites provide natural entertainment during hot summer days.
Amusement park access without driving: For families seeking both outdoor camping and entertainment, several campgrounds offer shuttle service to nearby attractions. "10 minutes to Knoebels with the mighty Phoenix. The best wooden coaster on the planet. Always a great time at Lake Glory. We've been camping here for 16 years or so."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds or lake access. A visitor to Lake Glory mentioned, "The lake is stocked and the fish are always hungry." Most fishing areas require Pennsylvania fishing licenses for adults, though some private campgrounds offer license-free fishing in their stocked ponds.
What campers like
Privacy options: While some campgrounds feature closely spaced sites, others provide more secluded options. A visitor to Jim Thorpe Camping Resort shared, "We had a great camp spot! We stayed 2 nights and it was actually the more secluded camp site." Site selection varies significantly across campgrounds.
Hiking trail access: Direct connections to trail systems rank high among camper preferences. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm." The area features interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels.
Waterfront sites: Lakeside camping offers both recreation and scenic views. "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake."
Camp stores with reasonable prices: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores with camping essentials. A camper at Camp A While appreciated that the "camping store had everything and did not gauge prices." Most stores offer firewood, ice, and basic groceries.
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise due to their proximity to major roads. At Camp A While, a camper noted it's "Right off the highway with lots of loud trucks and bikes." Consider requesting sites furthest from highways when making reservations.
Seasonal restrictions: Most glamping facilities near Middleport operate seasonally. Mountain Springs Camping Resort has a specific operating season from "April 1 to October 31" with 292 sites available during this period.
Varying bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. One visitor observed, "The bathhouses in this loop are non-flush/pit toilets. However, the other camping loops had shower houses and flush toilet restrooms." Research bathroom options when booking sites.
Pet restrictions at some locations: While many campgrounds allow pets, some glamping accommodations prohibit them. Verify pet policies before booking, especially for cabin or yurt rentals.
Varying site sizes and privacy: Site dimensions and privacy differ significantly. "Sites are very close to one another. We lucked out in Bermuda Triangle as there was a little more space and we were further away from some of the noise."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with young children, campgrounds with playground facilities provide important recreation options. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, "Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff. The best part was hiking in the boulder field!"
Swimming options: Summer heat makes swimming facilities valuable. "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming. The campsites were adequate size." Most swimming areas have seasonal lifeguards, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Campground activities: Scheduled events can enhance family camping experiences. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent."
Spacious sites for multiple tents: Larger family groups should seek campgrounds with adequate space. "Our site was super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right."
Pull-through availability: For easier setup, some campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites. At Allentown KOA, "When I arrived, check-in was easy and professional. A host had me follow him to a super convenient pull-through site, and stayed to make sure I was all set. The gravel site was level, so I didn't even have to unhook from my truck."
Full hookup sites: Many campgrounds offer complete RV connections. "We were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra!" Reservation systems typically specify available hookups and amp service for each site.
Maneuvering space considerations: Larger RVs may find some campgrounds challenging. "Very small campground. Can be tight getting around with a bigger camper if not experienced."
