The Minisink Hills area sits along the Delaware River at approximately 400 feet elevation, with the surrounding Pocono Mountains rising to over 1,800 feet. The region's geography creates a mix of riverside camping and mountain woodland sites. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during day, dropping to 50-65°F at night, creating comfortable camping conditions from May through September.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: Jenny Jump State Forest offers trails with panoramic views of the Delaware Water Gap. "The park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean," notes Jocelyn G. The forest includes "a great look out point as well" according to Ethan K., who adds that "you are able to hike out straight from the campsite."
Wolf preserve tours: Unique wildlife education opportunities await at Camp Taylor Campground. "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," shares Julie F. Another camper confirms, "Saw wild turkeys and deer in the morning. The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite."
Boulder field exploration: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers a unique geological feature. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," advises Amber A. The park provides "44 miles of trails... rated from easy to difficult," making it accessible for various skill levels.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond the standard pool. At Tobyhanna State Park Campground, campers enjoy "a lake for swimming and boating. Even compared to our glamping this was luxury!" Marlaina M. adds that "the lake is nearby and doesn't get crowded. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake."
Secluded wooded sites: For those seeking peaceful glamping in Minisink Hills, Pennsylvania area, quiet spots abound. "The camping sites are nice and large, can hold multiple tents. They request the purchase of another site if you have more than two tents... Very woodsy so you definitely are in the woods," explains Karralee B. at Camp Taylor. Another visitor mentions, "Steam Mill Camping Area is tucked out the of the way and is the most primitive. Some sites located around the opposite side of the ring back up to a babbling brook. The rushing water will soothe you to sleep."
Evening wildlife sounds: The nocturnal soundscape enhances the luxury camping experience. At Stokes State Forest, one reviewer described "Hooting owls and fall foliage. This was a very peaceful night in the woods." Campers at Delaware Water Gap KOA noted hearing frogs at night, while Camp Taylor visitors often hear wolves howling in the distance, creating a unique nighttime ambiance.
What you should know
Bear activity precautions: This region has active black bear populations. "We were warned at check-in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," warns Erik M. at Tobyhanna State Park. Many campgrounds require proper food storage.
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies widely across the area. At Timothy Lake South, campers report "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity." Another review notes, "the cell service for most providers is practically non-existent... try telling that to the two millennials that were staying with us."
Site selection importance: Campgrounds often have varied terrain and site quality. "Some sites are a bit rocky," notes Scott N. at Great Divide Campground. At Delaware Water Gap KOA, a reviewer advises, "The campground had many different types of sites. Some were big and socially distanced like the one we had. But some were extremely small and very close to the next camper... So make sure you ask for what you want."
Tips for camping with families
Free water activities: Great Divide Campground offers complimentary recreational equipment. "Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool. Staff was friendly and helpful," shares Jojo P. Another camper adds, "This is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves... We found plenty of trails to hike with our two dogs."
Playground accessibility: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. At Delaware Water Gap KOA, one camper recommends: "Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids." Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas with play equipment and open fields.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife learning experiences appeal to children. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much," shares one Camp Taylor visitor. Otter Lake Camp Resort offers "tons of activities for kids and adults... Tennis volleyball pickle ball basketball bocce ball," providing variety for different interests and ages.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Otter Lake Camp Resort provides full-service sites with premium views. "I loved being lakefront with full hook up. Such a beautiful and peaceful place. The campsites are kinda close together so if you don't like meeting new people you may not like it but we had nice neighbors so didn't mind," explains Stephanie C.
Site leveling considerations: Terrain affects setup ease at many campgrounds. "Sites are kinda close together but it was fairly quiet even though it was full. I was not able to get WiFi even though I paid for it," notes Mary H. about Timothy Lake South. Check campground maps and reviews, as many sites mention the need for leveling blocks in the mountainous terrain.
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, Timothy Lake South provides accessible options. "Pull through spots are a bit tight together but at least they have some," advises Nick E. Another camper mentions, "No issues navigating my 32' coach through the roads. There were a number of spots that could have easily fit our rig."
