Camping options near Palmerton, Pennsylvania include access to the Appalachian Trail, which traverses nearby Blue Mountain at approximately 1,650 feet elevation. The area's location between the ridges of Blue Mountain and Pohopoco Creek creates varied terrain for both primitive and established camping experiences. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with moderately humid conditions, while winter camping opportunities remain available at several year-round locations.
What to do
Explore boulder fields: Hickory Run State Park, located about 20 miles from Palmerton, features an unusual National Natural Landmark. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," notes Mike M. about this distinctive geological feature.
Hike the Appalachian Trail: Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides easy access to hiking sections of the famous trail. According to Emma T., "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 on the Lehigh river 10 minutes away."
Disc golf and mountain activities: Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort offers outdoor recreation beyond standard camping. As Lois notes, "If you choose adventure this is the place for you, ride the ski lifts up to the top of the mountain then you get to bike down it, they have rental bikes available or bring your own. You can also Zip line or swing through the trees if you would rather. If your into Disc golf this place has that too."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Hickory Run State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities despite its size. "This is probably the largest, most well-kept public campground I have ever been to," explains Bridget D. "The sites are large and many are somewhat private in terms of visual barriers. Some bathrooms are latrines, but they also have beautiful, fully updated showers and restrooms available."
Waterfront sites: Campers appreciate lakefront options at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Lisa S. explains, "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."
Privacy levels: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers varied site options for different preferences. Jen R. notes, "Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments. You can be down near the creek and in the open more, in the wooded areas, or you can be near the corn field and glacier rock field."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Certain areas around Palmerton have limited connectivity. At Tuscarora State Park, Zoltan P. reports, "No cell service at all unless you drive up to the top of the mountain. It is free to camp at one of the spots but you must call the respective ranger station ahead of time and let them know your car name ect and they issue you a permit free of charge."
Bear safety requirements: Wildlife considerations affect food storage policies. At Hickory Run State Park, Shirley M. notes, "Be aware that this area has a high bear population and all campers are required to keep food items in their vehicles or trailers when not at the site."
Site selection considerations: When glamping close to Palmerton, Pennsylvania, space variations between sites can affect your experience. A Jim Thorpe Camping Resort guest warns, "The RVs were parked so close together that none of us could use our awnings. There was a fifth wheel to our left that could just barely get their slideouts extended."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jim Thorpe Camping Resort provides recreation options for children. Jessica W. mentions, "There is a general store on site, an arcade, a pool, bathrooms with clean showers, and sinks with potable water. The mauch chunk stream runs through the back of the campground."
Boulder exploration for kids: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers natural playground opportunities. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" notes Terri S.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature water recreation for families during warmer months. Danny M. from Mauch Chunk Lake Park shares, "GREAT first trip! The campgrounds were nice and there was a lot to do. Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Stonybrook RV Resort offers well-maintained sites with varying leveling requirements. Angie G. notes about a nearby campground, "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!"
Navigating entry points: RVers should prepare for challenging access at some locations. One reviewer specifically warns about steep entry grades: "Just one thing— the entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn't easy in a 45' motorhome towing a Jeep."
Full hookup availability: When glamping near Palmerton, PA, electric and water connections vary by campground. Jonathan F. reports about Stonybrook, "This place has never come up in any of my searches for a campground but my wife was frantically trying to find a place to stay for Memorial Day weekend. They had one site left that we were lucky enough to grab and I'm glad we did. The site was nice and level side to side."
