Primitive tent camping near Minisink Hills, Pennsylvania ranges from riverside sites accessible only by canoe to hike-in platforms along the Appalachian Trail. The area sits at elevations between 300-1,500 feet within the Delaware Water Gap, where summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season. Fall camping offers colorful foliage displays but requires warmer sleeping gear as overnight temperatures can drop to 40°F by late September.
What to do
Kayak rentals at Catfish Pond: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center visitors can rent kayaks and canoes for exploring the pond's wildlife. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," notes Dan X., highlighting seasonal foraging opportunities.
Day hikes with mountain views: The network of trails near Jenny Jump State Forest offers varied terrain for hikers. "We allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany," shares Fransheska A., emphasizing the accessible trail system.
Riverside fishing: Walter's Boat In Campsites provides access to prime fishing spots along the Delaware. "As dusk fell, a small group of local fishermen came walking through the camp to access the river," reports John B., indicating the popularity of these fishing locations even among locals.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers secluded camping spots with room to spread out. "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," Kelsey K. mentions.
Primitive camping with convenient amenities: Despite being more rustic, many sites balance seclusion with basic facilities. "I really enjoyed this campground. Primitive, has bathrooms and water spigots. Good hammocking trees and wasn't crowded at all. Plenty of privacy from other sites," Lindsay D. reports about Jenny Jump.
Group camping facilities: Rivers Bend Group Campground provides excellent spaces for larger gatherings. "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally locates and a pump well that did not work," describes Christopher W.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many river campsites have strict booking policies. "Primitive site for multi day river trips. There's usually always a port-a-potty at the campsite. Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access. Reservations are required for this site," explains Stephanie S. about Alosa Boat In Campsites.
Access challenges: Campsites like Bushkill Creek require specific entry methods. "The path up to the campsite from the river gets a little steep, but not bad," notes Anna M., providing practical information about the terrain.
Limited supplies nearby: Pack everything you need before arrival. "The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!" warns Kelsey K.
Fire restrictions: Fire rules vary by campsite. At Walter's Boat In Campsites, fires are prohibited by the National Park Service, while other sites permit them but with specific regulations.
Tips for camping with families
Platform camping options: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers wooden platforms that keep tents dry. "Tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms. Cabins come in various sizes," mentions Dan X., highlighting options for families who prefer not to sleep directly on the ground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can enjoy spotting local animals. "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife," adds Dan X.
Shelter camping for beginners: For families testing camping without full equipment investment, shelters provide a comfortable introduction. "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch," describes Dwight D. from Jenny Jump State Forest.
Field site staging areas: Wooded Campground provides open fields ideal for families planning day trips. "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," reports Katharine T.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Minisink Hills is primitive with few dedicated RV sites. Jenny Jump State Forest accepts RVs but with minimal hookups and no sewer connections.
Size restrictions: Sites that do accept RVs typically cannot accommodate large rigs. "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites," notes Seth K. about Jenny Jump State Forest, one of the few areas suitable for smaller RVs.
Road noise considerations: When selecting RV-friendly campgrounds, be aware of highway proximity. "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," shares Jocelyn G. about Jenny Jump's higher elevation sites.
Water access with RVs: At Jenny Jump State Forest, RV sites include water hookups but have varying terrain. "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," warns Seth K.
