Best Tent Camping near Mount Pocono, PA
Tent campgrounds in the Delaware Water Gap region near Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania offer a mix of primitive sites and established areas for canvas shelter enthusiasts. Jenny Jump State Forest provides tent camping with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, while more secluded options exist at Namanock Island in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, accessible only by water and offering true wilderness camping experiences.
Most primitive tent sites require careful preparation as amenities vary significantly between locations. The Manny Gordon Recreation Area Campground in Pinchot State Forest provides tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables but limited drinking water access. Walk-in tent sites at places like Camp Mohican Outdoor Center require short hikes from parking areas to reach campsites. According to one visitor, "Even compared to our glamping this was luxury," referring to the shelter camping at Jenny Jump State Forest which offers a step up from ground tents while maintaining a rustic experience.
Tent campers appreciate the seclusion available at water-accessible sites along the Delaware River. A review mentioned that "of all the places I have ever camped, having an entire island to yourself is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else," describing the Namanock Island primitive tent sites. These areas typically feature stone fire rings and flat tent pads with varying degrees of privacy. Delaware Water Gap primitive tent sites often require permits and enforce a one-night stay limit. Summer weekends see higher usage, especially at accessible locations, while spring brings higher water levels that can impact riverside tent camping. Most backcountry tent sites in the region provide enough room for multiple tents and often feature pristine surroundings with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.