The Pocono Mountains region near Nazareth, Pennsylvania sits at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,800 feet above sea level, creating a diverse landscape for camping. Seasonal temperature shifts between 20°F in winter and 85°F in summer affect camping conditions throughout the year. Most campgrounds in this area remain open from April through October, with a few offering cabin accommodations year-round.
What to do
Hike to scenic waterfalls: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers 44 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. "We hiked both [Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails] with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls," notes Shirley M., who found these moderately-rated trails accessible for most skill levels.
Visit boulder formations: The boulder field at Hickory Run State Park Campground provides a unique geological experience. "The boulder field was the highlight of our camping trip," says Shayna, who recommends sturdy footwear for exploring this natural phenomenon. The field features large rock formations created by glacial activity thousands of years ago.
Explore river activities: Driftstone Campground offers direct Delaware River access. "Easy access to Delaware River from campground and kayak trips offered," shares George, highlighting the river-based recreation options within walking distance of campsites. Kayak and tube rentals are available on-site from May through September.
Experience wildlife viewing: The Lakota Wolf Preserve connected to Camp Taylor Campground provides educational opportunities. "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," reports Julie F., describing one of the area's unique camping experiences.
What campers like
Spacious wooded campsites: Mountainview Campground offers secluded spots in natural settings. "This is a smallish campground with many seasonal spots and some rental spots. Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious," mentions Sarah, who appreciated the privacy. Sites feature fire rings with cooking grates and level gravel pads.
Clean facilities: Camp Taylor Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained," explains Kathy G., who found the campground suitable for families with children. Bathroom facilities include flush toilets and hot showers at no additional cost.
Waterfront locations: Campsites along the Delaware River provide natural ambiance. "Driftstone is set on a beautiful location on the Delaware River. River Road on which it is located, is picturesque and quiet enough to run, walk or bike on," notes Kathy G., who recommends requesting riverfront sites when making reservations.
Wildlife encounters: Campers report seeing diverse wildlife. "We've tent camped here three or four times. It's a quiet wooded campground. Easy to get to, and friendly family ownership," writes Robert J. about Mountainview Campground, where animal sightings include bullfrogs and local birds.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Mountain Vista Campground, location within the property affects your experience. "Set on a hillside, the campground has three levels. The tent sites all have water & electric, and have a picnic table and fire ring. The sites are fully shaded," explains Tori S., noting the campground's terraced layout.
Bear awareness required: Proper food storage prevents wildlife issues. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," Jennifer D. reports from Hickory Run State Park. Campers must store food in vehicles or hard-sided containers when not in use.
Reservation timing: Advanced booking is essential during peak season. "Already booked the site for next year!!" shares Angela about Mountain Vista Campground, highlighting the popularity of certain sites that book up to a year in advance.
Campground rules: Quiet hours are strictly enforced at most locations. "They are very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire," Dan B. notes about Camp Taylor Campground, which maintains 10pm-7am quiet periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Colonial Woods Family Resort provides multiple play areas. "They had a playground, lake where you could fish, cornhole, and minigolf," Nicole S. explains, noting these amenities kept children entertained throughout their stay regardless of weather conditions.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature pools for kids. "The pool and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times," reports Nicole S. about Colonial Woods, which maintains both adult and children's swimming areas open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Organized activities: Weekend events keep children engaged. "They had nice arts and crafts for the kids to do for dad," Shannon C. mentions about Colonial Woods' Father's Day weekend programming. Most campgrounds post activity schedules at check-in or on their websites.
Pet accommodations: Many campgrounds welcome dogs with families. "Dog friendly!" Christina H. notes about Mountainview Campground, which designates specific sites for pets and provides waste disposal stations throughout the property.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Ringing Rocks Family Campground, site preparation matters. "The sites were large and secluded but grassy and a bit uneven and it seemed to be like this across the board," reports Jim G., recommending leveling blocks for most sites.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have navigation issues. "The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed," Brian C. warns about Colonial Woods, suggesting smaller rigs or careful driving for those with larger vehicles.
Hook-up availability: Water and electric connections vary by campground. "Campsites are either in thick, wooded areas, or in open fields," Christina H. notes about Mountainview Campground, where hookups include 30/50 amp service depending on site location.
Dump station logistics: Plan departure timing around dump station usage. "Dump station location isn't ideal on a busy morning," Nathan R. reports from Colonial Woods, suggesting asking about extended checkout if the station is busy.
Legend
