Camping spots near New Ringgold, Pennsylvania are nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,600 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in this area are situated along creeks or small lakes, creating diverse fishing opportunities but also potential for muddy conditions after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking the boulder field: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, visitors can explore the unique National Natural Landmark boulder field. "The boulder field was the highlight of our camping trip. The campground has great playgrounds, several well-marked trails, and functional (if dirty and rustic) restrooms and showers," notes Shayna.
Kayaking on lakes: Many campsites offer direct water access for paddling enthusiasts. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, campers can launch right from their sites. "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake," shares Emma T.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds or lake access. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars," reports Lisa S. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Trail access: Mountain biking and hiking trails connect many campgrounds to larger trail networks. "Great hiking trails! Lots of mushrooms! Nice walk-in sites for camping," mentions Annette M. about Locust Lake State Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: At Blue Rocks Family Campground, the natural setting offers seclusion. "Great campground with lots of amenities. The staff was friendly, the store had essentials and more, and there was great hiking right from the grounds. Our site was a little rocky so be prepared with a good mat/mattress if tent camping," advises Maggie H.
Multiple accommodation options: Many campgrounds provide various lodging types. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," says Nick M.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention bathroom cleanliness as important. "The bathhouses in this loop are non-flush/pit toilets. However, the other camping loops had shower houses and flush toilet restrooms," explains Shirley M. about Hickory Run State Park.
Seasonal activities: Fall camping is particularly popular in the region. "PA is beautiful in the fall. Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling! Check out the Jim Thorpe fall fest and Hershey Park," recommends Melanie Z.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Terrain throughout camping areas near New Ringgold can be challenging. "Our site was a hill and no matter how many times we adjusted, we just could not get leveled. So my advice would be to make sure you aren't put on the buddy sites if at all possible," warns Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort.
Limited winter operations: Most campgrounds close from November through March. "This park has no tent camping. They offer cabins and yurts, but have no sites for people to set up tents. The main attraction for this park is their lake, which you can swim in, fish, kayak or drop in a boat," explains Tiffany K. about Tuscarora State Park.
Wildlife considerations: Bears are present in the region. "There are bear in the region so be weary with your food. No noise pollution. No light pollution. No large towns anywhere near here all towns with very minimal population," advises Zoltan P.
Cell service limitations: Some campgrounds have poor connectivity. "If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," notes Jen R. about remote camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Tuscarora State Park Campground offers structured family recreation. "A group of us stayed here over Memorial Day weekend. The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," shares Paige H.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature lake beaches rather than pools. "We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice," describes Dawn R. about her family experience.
Playground access: Consider site location relative to play areas. "There is a pool, playground, arcade, camp store, bike and golf cart rentals. Super easy access to Appalachian trail," shares Amy C. about Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Weather contingencies: Spring and summer rainfall can create challenges. "We had 3 families and sites (2 campers & 1 tent) all sites were decent sizes. Only downside to our trip was poured every night and one whole day," notes Dawn R. about her group experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, campers recommend checking site details. "This was our first trip with our new to us jayco. We stayed in site 20. Easy to back in. Didn't need leveling blocks as our site was nice and level," shares Angela.
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different utility connections. "Great place. No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites. Convenient paved walking path all around the lake," explains Brandon W. about Locust Lake State Park.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Many campgrounds charge premium rates during peak season. "This campground had been let go with poor management for many years, HOWEVER the new management and staff have really turned it around!! The grounds are beautiful and free of trash, the cabins are beautiful and clean," reports a camper about Robin Hill Campground's improvements.
Space considerations: Site dimensions can be limiting for larger rigs. "Sites were a little small and rocky/rooty, but we made it work. Definitely go in the fall to soak up all the colors!" advises Joe F.
