Nestled in the Pocono Mountains of northeast Pennsylvania, Paupack sits at around 1,200 feet elevation with typical woodland climate conditions that include warm summers and cold winters. The region features deciduous forests surrounding numerous lakes and ponds, with camping options that range from basic tent sites to elevated glamping experiences. Campers often find cooler temperatures at night even during summer months, with rainfall possible year-round.
What to do
Fishing in stocked lakes: At Tobyhanna State Park Campground, campers can fish in designated areas with catch and release practices. One visitor mentioned, "Fish was great" while another noted that "There is a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake."
Hiking local trail systems: Mount Pocono Campground offers direct trail access from campsites. As one reviewer explained, "Great hiking trail right from the site. Be prepared for walking up and downhill - quite the unexpected workout." Many trails connect to larger networks throughout the Poconos.
Boating on multiple waterways: Otter Lake Camp Resort provides water recreation options beyond swimming. A camper shared, "There is a big lake you can fish from, kayak, bring your own boat and even swim from when it's warm out. You can rent paddle boats, small fish boats and kayaks."
Boulder field exploration: Hickory Run State Park Campground features a unique geological formation. A visitor remarked, "We took a drive on 2 afternoons on a stone road through the woods to see the Boulder Field. It was a beautiful drive." Another called it "one of the coolest places I've ever visited."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Secluded Acres Campground, visitors appreciate the spacious layout. One camper raved, "Such wonderful rustic sites that are absolutely secluded!! Love it and just wish it was open all year round!" This campground offers yurt camping near Paupack, Pennsylvania with units positioned to maximize privacy.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. At Mount Pocono Campground, one visitor noted, "Cleanest campground bathouse I've ever used!" Similarly, at Secluded Acres, a camper reported, "Bathhouses are clean, water pressure is good, and the hot water is actually hot."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers mention seeing animals during their stays. At Tobyhanna State Park, one visitor shared, "We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite," while another mentioned, "Deer may or may not stop by for a visit."
Year-round yurt options: Paupack area yurt camping remains available through multiple seasons at select campgrounds. At Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South, winter campers find special appeal: "With a sparse population in the winter, it made for a great spot for a work stay."
What you should know
Bear awareness: This region has significant bear populations. At Tobyhanna State Park, one camper warned, "We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent."
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs greatly between locations. At Timothy Lake South, a visitor reported, "Cell service for most providers is practically non-existent," while another specified, "Verizon is 25 down 10 up. Tmobile is unusable."
Weather preparation: The Paupack area experiences significant temperature swings. For yurt camping in Paupack, Pennsylvania, insulated options provide better comfort during colder months. Some campgrounds, like Stokes State Forest, offer wood stoves in cabins, with one camper noting, "I went through two bundles of wood in one night, and could have used more in the morning."
Site selection matters: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, location within the campground affects experience. One camper advised, "Get a site on the lake" and "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side w/ the beach and pool."
Tips for camping with families
Look for scheduled activities: Many campgrounds plan regular events. At Otter Lake Camp Resort, a visitor highlighted, "Terrific for new campers. There's a camp store with all the necessary things you've left at home. The lake is gorgeous."
Consider swimming options: Multiple locations offer both lake and pool swimming. A visitor to Keen Lake noted, "My kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," providing alternatives when weather conditions affect water comfort.
Check playground facilities: Stokes State Forest offers dedicated play areas. A camper mentioned, "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." Multiple campgrounds feature similar amenities.
Research bathroom proximity: For younger children, bathroom access matters. At Keen Lake Resort, one camper advised, "We were on the far side of the lake which is not really within walking distance of the beach, pool and store," suggesting families consider site location relative to facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Many reviewers mention narrow sites at certain campgrounds. At Timothy Lake South, a camper observed, "Sites are long but narrow," while another noted, "Some are a bit narrow, but I found a nice pull thru."
Water pressure variations: Pressure differs between campgrounds. One Timothy Lake South visitor reported, "Best water pressure I have seen on the east coast, unregulated it's over 80 psi," suggesting RVers should use regulators.
Seasonal site options: Many campgrounds offer longer-term arrangements. At Otter Lake Camp Resort, one visitor shared, "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven!"
Hook-up availability: Different campgrounds offer various utility connections. When selecting a yurt or cabin for glamping near Paupack, Pennsylvania, check whether electric, water or other utilities are included, as these vary widely between properties.
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