The Pocono Mountains region surrounding New Ringgold sits at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,600 feet, creating diverse microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Seasonal temperature swings can be significant, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Fall camping is particularly popular due to moderate temperatures and reduced humidity levels that make hiking and outdoor activities more comfortable.
What to do
Boulder field exploration: 1.5-hour excursion at Hickory Run State Park. This unusual geological formation covers 16 acres and consists of large sandstone boulders. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," notes one visitor to Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Kayaking on Mauch Chunk Lake: Rental fees $15-25 per hour. The 330-acre lake has calm waters ideal for beginners. "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, went to bed, woke up to make some breakfast and then we were off to go rafting," shares a camper at Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Brewery tours in Pottsville: 20-minute drive from Locust Lake. The historic Yuengling Brewery offers tours showing the brewing process from start to finish. "PA is beautiful in the fall. Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling!" reports a visitor to Locust Lake State Park Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Routinely serviced throughout day. The well-maintained restrooms and shower buildings receive consistent praise from visitors. "The bathrooms and showers are a hop, skip and jump from yurts and well maintained. Also each yurt comes with a moor skip to keep kayaks, paddleboards or canoes at lake," notes a camper at Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Catch-and-release ponds. Several campgrounds maintain stocked fishing ponds that don't require fishing licenses. "There is a pond for fishing however we didn't have any luck. It had a lot of pond scum and there were a lot of duck families around," reports a visitor to Robin Hill Campground.
Trail access: Direct connections to hiking networks. Multiple campgrounds offer immediate access to trail systems without needing to drive. "They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent. The staff is always friendly and it's always great time. It's right at the base of one of the most popular hiking trail, The Pinnacle," shares a guest at Blue Rocks Family Campground.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Pack for temperature swings of 30+ degrees. The mountainous terrain creates significant day-to-night temperature variations, especially in spring and fall. "It was chilly in the mornings and evenings and warm and sunny during the day. Perfect fall weather," mentions a visitor to Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Advance reservations: 3-6 month booking window recommended. Sites with electric hookups and premium waterfront locations fill quickly, especially for summer and fall weekends. "Peak season requires minimum 5 day reservation, I believe. Yurts have 2 sets of bunk beds with one set having full size mattress on bottom," notes a camper at Tuscarora State Park.
Bear awareness protocols: Food storage requirements. The region has an active black bear population requiring proper food storage. "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," reports a visitor to Tuscarora State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple facilities at varied age levels. Several campgrounds feature updated playground equipment for different age groups. "This place really has something for everyone! Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff. The best part was hiking in the boulder field!" shares a visitor to Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Easy hiking options: 1-2 mile beginner-friendly trails. Several short trails with minimal elevation gain are suitable for young hikers. "Nice hiking trails! Lots of mushrooms! Nice walk-in sites for camping," notes a visitor to Locust Lake State Park.
Swimming areas: Designated beach zones with gradually sloping entries. The lake swimming areas typically include roped sections for different swimming abilities. "The kids loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" mentions a camper at Allentown KOA.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring extra leveling blocks. Many campsites in the region require significant leveling due to sloping terrain. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!" notes an RVer at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Water hookup limitations: Fill tanks before arrival. Not all sites that offer electric hookups include water connections. "Great place. No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites. Convenient paved walking path all around the lake," reports a visitor to Locust Lake State Park.
Narrow access roads: 32-foot or shorter RVs recommended. Several campgrounds have tight turns and limited maneuvering space for larger rigs. "Easy to back in. Didn't need leveling blocks as our site was nice and level. Stayed Thursday through Sunday," shares an RVer at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
