Northampton, Pennsylvania sits within 10 miles of the Delaware River, with elevations ranging from 330 to 1,200 feet throughout the camping region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October, with select sites offering year-round access.
What to do
Fishing at Spruce Run Recreation Area: The 1,290-acre reservoir allows fishing for northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, and various panfish. "The sites are large, many have nice mix of sun and shade. You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," notes a camper from Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Hiking at French Creek State Park: With numerous trail options for all skill levels, this park offers year-round outdoor recreation. "There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," shares a visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Stargazing at Mountainview Campground: Located away from major light pollution, this campground provides excellent night sky viewing. "Great spot for stargazing. Owners are very nice," mentions a camper who stayed at one of the primitive sites at Mountainview.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer wooded spaces that create natural buffers. "The sites are spacious and the and facilities are clean. The campsites are spacious and the campground is laid out well," according to a review from Pickerel Point Campground.
Lake access for water activities: Multiple campgrounds feature direct lake or water access. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," notes another Pickerel Point visitor.
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain peaceful environments despite proximity to urban areas. "This is a smallish campground with many seasonal spots and some rental spots. Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious," mentions a Mountainview Campground reviewer.
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility cleanliness differs significantly between campgrounds. "Bathrooms were just okay. Muddy floors - don't know how often floors are cleaned. Showers were odd - one large stall but no separate dressing area," reports a camper from French Creek State Park.
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds have spotty or no reception. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," notes a visitor to Pickerel Point.
Alcohol restrictions: State parks typically prohibit alcohol. "The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," explains a reviewer from Hibernia County Park.
No suitable equestrian camping: None of the campgrounds near Northampton offer dedicated horse facilities. Riders seeking equestrian camping near Northampton, Pennsylvania need to look beyond the immediate area for appropriate accommodations with corrals or stables.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks feature playgrounds for different age groups. "There are several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area," mentions a reviewer from Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs. "They hold a Sunday morning 'Church at the Park,' which we were planning to go to, but then it rained, and we didn't know there was a rain location (the park office)," shares a French Creek visitor.
Cabin options for easier camping: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. We tented in loop D...There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids)," notes a French Creek camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustments for RV leveling. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises a visitor to Starlite Camping Resort.
Limited hookups at state parks: Not all sites offer full connections. "We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," explains a French Creek reviewer.
Pack in water supplies: Some parks require preparation. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," warns a Hibernia County Park visitor.
Ranger
