Camping sites near Noxen, Pennsylvania dot the northeastern Pocono region at elevations ranging from 1,200-2,000 feet. The area experiences seasonal temperature variations with summer highs averaging 82°F and winter lows frequently dropping below 20°F. The terrain around Noxen features mixed hardwood forests with hemlock stands common near stream corridors.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, trails range from easy to difficult with approximately 44 miles of hiking paths. "Excellent views and the ability to explore and experience the waterfalls areas. Beach and lake activities are available as well," notes Gary O. The Falls Trail offers access to 22 named waterfalls within a 7-mile loop.
Mountain biking: Moon Lake Recreation Area in Pinchot State Forest maintains trail networks specifically for cyclists. "Absolutely love Moon Lake. Place has some of the best mountain bike trails in northeast pa. Camping is primitive but has spots big enough for RVs," states Daniel F. The trails vary in difficulty with some technical sections requiring intermediate skills.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying amenities. Frances Slocum State Park offers a swimming pool rather than lake access. According to Annette M., "Cute little park. Nice lake for kayaking but not for swimming although there is a big pool." Hickory Run also maintains a lake beach area for swimmers during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site layout and vegetation screening vary significantly between campgrounds near Noxen. "Our site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)," reports T K. about Ricketts Glen. In contrast, World's End State Park Campground offers more seclusion in some areas: "We had the pleasure of renting a cabin at World's End State Park... We were immediately in love with the babbling river that ran right beside our cabin."
Water features: Creeks and lakes provide natural attractions at multiple camping sites near Noxen. "Great hiking! There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" explains Lexi about Ricketts Glen. At Frances Slocum State Park Campground, "The park has great hiking spots, a local pool, and a lake that you can rent boats or kayak on!!"
Wildlife viewing: Opportunities for animal sightings exist throughout the region. While bear warnings are common, actual encounters are rare. "We took a drive on 2 afternoons on a stone road through the woods to see the Boulder Field. It was a beautiful drive. We were on the lookout for bear, but only saw 3 deer," reports Shirley M. about Hickory Run State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect most campgrounds from late October through April. While Ricketts Glen remains open year-round, most facilities close after the third weekend in October. Lackawanna State Park Campground operates from "2nd Friday April to 3rd Sunday October" according to park information.
Water quality concerns occur periodically. At World's End, a camper noted: "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth." Similar situations can affect any campground in the region.
Alcohol policies differ between state and private campgrounds. At state parks like Hickory Run, "Alcohol is strictly forbidden– we were warned that if a ranger saw any alcohol outside of our vehicle, we would be cited." Private facilities like Cozy Creek Family Campground allow alcohol consumption.
Cell service varies drastically by location and carrier. At Lackawanna State Park, "Cell service covers the area, if you care," notes David. In contrast, T K. reports about Ricketts Glen: "Also no service (Verizon)." Mountain terrain creates numerous dead zones throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas of varying quality and age appropriateness. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, "There was a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children," notes Shirley M. World's End State Park also has "a nice playground, but it is a mile away from the campground."
Swimming beaches: Lake options provide natural swimming alternatives to pools. "The campgrounds are connected to some very cool hiking paths, very well marked. Do not miss the chance to check out cottonwood falls. Completely stunning location," advises Kate J. about World's End State Park. Most swimming areas operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Interactive nature programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities during summer months. At Lackawanna State Park, "There is an environmental education center with programs" according to Janet R. These programs typically run weekends from June through August with topics ranging from wildlife identification to survival skills.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies widely between campgrounds. At Highland Campgrounds, full hookups include electric, water and sewer connections. "Nice level sites easy to back in rv and set up," reports John T. about Frances Slocum State Park, which offers electric-only sites.
Site leveling requirements depend on terrain. At Ricketts Glen, James S. notes, "Our full hookup site was large with table and fire ring, and required some leveling. Not much shade in the full hookup loop, so was happy to have electricity for A/C." Bring leveling blocks as many sites throughout the region sit on slopes.
Generator restrictions apply at state parks. Most state parks near Noxen prohibit generator use entirely. Private campgrounds like Cozy Creek and Highland allow generators during specific hours, typically 8am-10pm. For RVers requiring continuous power, select sites with electrical hookups or choose private campgrounds with more flexible policies.
