Tent camping near Palm, Pennsylvania provides access to various woodland settings within an hour's drive. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level in Montgomery County and experiences warm summers with highs around 85°F and cool falls when nighttime temperatures can drop into the 40s. Most campgrounds in this area operate from April through October, coinciding with the most favorable camping conditions.
What to do
Disc golf at Green Lane Park: The 27-hole course at Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park offers varied terrain challenges. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," notes Benjamin C., who found plenty of recreational options at this multipurpose park.
Kayaking at Round Valley: For more advanced outdoor recreation, Round Valley State Park Campground offers a 2,350-acre reservoir with crystal clear water. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean," reports James R., who recommends filtering reservoir water rather than using the park's well water.
Creek exploration at Shambala: Smaller waterways provide intimate nature interaction at Shambala at Mystic Hollow, where tent sites line a peaceful creek. Jake C. describes the appeal: "Shambala at Mystic Hollow offers great creekside campsites for anyone looking to pitch a tent and enjoy some time by the water."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating larger camping spots at certain parks. "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails," writes Joe B. about Deep Creek Campground, noting these practical amenities enhance the overall experience.
Wildlife encounters: Wooded settings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. At Boulder Ridge Farm, campers enjoy "waking up to owls" as Jnear139 explains: "Great place to escape the stress of every day life. Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome."
Waterfront access: Lakeside camping at Mauch Chunk Lake Park allows for immediate water activities. Lisa S. appreciates that "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm... I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."
What you should know
Privacy considerations: Site spacing varies significantly between parks. Tara T. notes about Green Lane: "The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you'll definitely be right up on your neighbors."
Bathroom facilities: Cleanliness and availability of restrooms varies by location. At Evansburg State Park Campground, facilities are functional but basic, with one visitor noting the park can become "the muddiest State Park I've ever experienced" after rainfall.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For Round Valley State Park, accessibility requires planning as James R. points out: "If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place."
Water access limitations: Despite proximity to water, swimming may be restricted. At Round Valley, Stuart K. observed this contradiction: "The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you're not allowed to swim in the reservoir."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: For families new to camping, some locations offer easier logistics. At Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park, David K. explains why it works well: "This place is great for first time campers... they have a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits."
Wildlife education: Owl spotting provides a natural learning experience. Ashley F. describes the Boulder Ridge Farm experience: "This property is close to town yet so serene... the property is covered in gorgeous boulders. There is an abundance of wildlife."
Water activities: Lake swimming provides family recreation. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, Emma T. recounts: "We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake... Note for next time: we will definitely be getting a lake front site for the awesome view!"
Weather planning: Temperature fluctuations can affect comfort. Ra F. noted at Green Lane Park that there was "no electrical connection to recharge electronics," which can be important when camping with families reliant on devices.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup access: Many campgrounds near Palm primarily accommodate tent camping with minimal RV infrastructure. At Evansburg State Park, while RV camping is permitted, J K. emphasizes other activities: "Great park to do everything outdoorsy including hiking, horseback riding, hunting and fishing."
Parking considerations: Access for larger vehicles can be challenging. Stuart K. reports about Round Valley: "We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly."
Road access issues: Some campgrounds require advanced planning for larger vehicles. When visiting Boulder Ridge Farm, Ashley F. suggests: "2WD is fine but 4WD will make your experience getting to the property a bit more smooth."
