Pet friendly camping near Noxen, Pennsylvania offers diverse options across a region with elevations ranging from 900 to 2,300 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, with nighttime lows dropping to 55-65°F. The Endless Mountains region features a mix of deciduous forests and stream valleys where campers contend with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to do
Hiking at Worlds End State Park: The High Rock Trail accessible from the Visitor Center offers challenging rock scrambling and spectacular views. "The park has some good trails with amazing views, a beach area and Loyalsock creek. The campsite was a bit cramped and right next to the main road going in and out of the park," notes Ally S. from Worlds End State Park Campground.
Kayaking on calm waters: The lakes in the region provide ideal flat-water experiences for beginners and families. "Nice lake for kayaking but not for swimming although there is a big pool. Nice trails for hiking," reports Annette M. about Frances Slocum State Park Campground.
Boulder Field exploration: A unique geological formation consisting of large stone blocks creates an otherworldly landscape. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," writes Mike M. about Hickory Run State Park.
Mountain biking on forest trails: The local trail systems offer both technical and leisurely riding options. "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," shares Daniel F. from Moon Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Fishing opportunities: The region's lakes and streams provide habitats for various fish species. "Excellent views and the ability to explore and experience the waterfalls areas. Beach and lake activities are available as well," mentions Gary O. about Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Tent sites along water: Many campgrounds feature premium sites with creek or lake frontage. "The tent sites are right on the creek. The grounds, the little store/coffee shop and the facilities were pristine," reports Louis P. about Cozy Creek Family Campground.
Campground amenities: The region offers both rustic and developed camping options. "Been here twice so far! Whether it's nature and back roads, or wanting to have a dip in the pool and lay in the sun, this campground is the best of both worlds," writes Jennifer R. about Highland Campgrounds.
Stargazing conditions: Rural location means minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "The stars are incredible here! I usually come in the fall in October/early November. It's my favorite time to come because it's not extremely packed with campers and the leaves are beautiful," notes Jennifer F.
What you should know
Seasonal water issues: Some parks experience water quality problems during warmer months. "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," explains Lee D.
Variable shower conditions: Bathroom facilities differ widely between campgrounds. "Bath houses are okay, showers are button showers and are freezing come prepared," warns Erin M. from Frances Slocum State Park Campground.
Primitive tent site considerations: Walk-in sites require planning and proper equipment. "We camped at Red Rock as couples. We stayed in primitive tent sites which you had to hike into. They were very private," reports Samantha M. from Red Rock Mountain Campground.
Noise levels: Campground quiet hours vary and enforcement differs. "Quiet hours are 9 pm– 8 am, which is more restrictive than other state parks, however, some did not observe these quiet hours (a guitar-playing singing camper thought he was talented, but I disagree!)," shares Lee D.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is 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. from Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer interpretive programs and exhibits. "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park," shares Shayna.
Site selection for privacy: Some loops offer more secluded camping spots. "Sites 65 and 66 look like the best ones available, as they are up off the road a bit so they have a bit more privacy. The walk in sites (58-61) look nice too, but only if you are going with a group and book them all," advises Katy R.
Family-friendly loops: Certain areas cater specifically to groups with children. "My family loves it up here. The reservation staff are over accommodating and very helpful, we had to call them a few times. Great place for hiking, fishing, letting kids have fun and be kids," says Jessica B. from Moon Lake Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Terrain in the region often requires adjustments for RVs. "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," mentions James S.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary considerably in privacy and size. "The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade. It was a very quiet weekend for us as our loop was not crowded," writes Shirley M.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging entrance roads. "The road in (Vacation lane) is dirt, rough and narrow. There is presently no gate as well so the public can just drive in," cautions April L. from Cozy Creek Family Campground.
Electrical reliability concerns: Older campgrounds may have infrastructure limitations. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David from Lackawanna State Park.
