Stephen R.
Guide
GuideRicketts Glen State Park Campground
Camping here for many years and still love it here got it all camping trails water fall trail and lake.
Camping near Plymouth, PA
29 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Camping opportunities near Plymouth, Pennsylvania include a mix of state parks and private campgrounds offering diverse accommodations. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, located about 30 miles northwest, features tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts with lake access. Other nearby options include Frances Slocum State Park Campground and Hickory Run State Park, both providing electric hookups and various camping styles. According to data from The Dyrt, most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several also offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort.
Many state park campgrounds in the Plymouth area operate seasonally, typically from April through October. Hickory Run and Frances Slocum State Parks follow a standard Pennsylvania schedule, opening the second Friday in April and closing the third Sunday in October. As one visitor noted, "We camped here mid-week at the beginning of November and when we arrived with friends, we were the only two campsites occupied but by the next day, several more campers arrived." Weather conditions can significantly impact camping experiences, with some sites becoming muddy after rainfall. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays when facilities reach capacity.
Campers report high satisfaction with waterfront sites at several parks near Plymouth. Tobyhanna State Park Campground receives positive reviews for its lakeside camping, with one visitor sharing, "Being able to wake up lakeside up in the mountain and looking at the view was an experience that I will always treasure!" Ricketts Glen State Park stands out for its 22 waterfalls accessible via hiking trails, making it a popular destination despite sometimes crowded conditions. Private campgrounds like Moyers Grove provide additional amenities such as swimming pools and organized activities. Most developed campgrounds feature clean bathhouses, picnic tables, and fire rings, though site sizes and privacy levels vary considerably across the region.
Best Campgrounds near Plymouth (189)
1. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground
"The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"
"Many of the sites looked close to the road and not very private but we were in site 63 which was pretty private(though we were lucky neighboring site 62 was empty)."
10 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $15 - $92 / night
2. Hickory Run State Park Campground
"Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"
"Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. "
61 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $72 / night
3. Frances Slocum State Park Campground
"Was also an easy back in site as there’s an adjacent road (to parking and the amphitheater) right in front of it. All sites only have electric and only certain allow pets."
"Large, wooded sites, good bathhouse, nice trails close by. A little highway noise, but dark and quiet at night. Very peaceful place."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $48 / night
4. Moon Lake Recreation Area Campground — Pinchot State Forest
"A one mile walk gets you to the lake. They have a covered pavilion with plenty of picnic tables. My site is large with plenty of trees providing shade. The outhouse is a bit of a walk."
"There is no electric or water hookup but the trails are nice, it's quiet, and there's a lake to fish. There's also swimming down the Rd at a nearby creek."
2 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $10 / night
5. Moyers Grove Campground
"The campsites were clean, adequately spaced and many positioned along side a creek. The bathhouse (hooray) was great. Recently renovated, they were extremely, clean and dry."
"There are 3 resident geese who wander around near the creek and lakes. It was too cool to use the pool while we were visiting but it was clean and well cared-for. "
6. Lackawanna State Park Campground
"The sites were a little close to each other and where we were in the park was a mixed use area. So we had an RV next to us with the Genny running all day."
"The main reason we didn't do more was the distance. We have a motorhome so we didn't have additional vehicles to get to and from places."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $20 - $90 / night
7. Tobyhanna State Park Campground
"We were looking for a lakeside campground with a spacious campsite that could comfortably fit two large tents and two vehicles."
"Breathtaking views from nearby trails and nearby Big Pocono State Park. The park staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about nearby trails and best places to get the most out of the views!"
4 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $43 / night
8. Highland Campgrounds
"This campground was very nice and had so much hiking in and around it. They were very helpful with getting us a site since it was so last minute on a holiday weekend Will be visiting again"
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $100 / night
9. Lehigh Gorge Campground
"Bathrooms were close by and as clean as you can expect when camping. I’d certainly go back."
"We are in a transient site which doesn't have much shade and it is close to the main road (although separated by some trees and brush). The campers and campground are very quiet. "
10. Bodnarosa Campground
Drive Time
- 25 min from Scranton, PA
- 1 hr 14 min from Allentown, PA
- 1 hr 17 min from Williamsport, PA
- 1 hr 19 min from Binghamton, NY
Recent Camping Photos near Plymouth, PA
419 Photos of 189 Plymouth Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Moon Lake Recreation Area Campground — Pinchot State ForestJ
Frances Slocum State Park Campground
Lehigh Gorge Campground
Thornhurst Tract Roadside Campsites — Pinchot State Forest
Red Rock Mountain Campground
Ricketts Glen State Park CampgroundD
Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center
Hickory Run State Park CampgroundB
Whispering Pines Camping Estates
Wanna Ruf It CampgroundB
Cozy Creek Family Campgroundk
Scrub Mountain Retreat
Recent Reviews near Plymouth, PA
910 Reviews of 189 Plymouth Campgrounds
- RRussell A.
Scout100 Mile View Camping
What a great place. So unique! Love the view, and a great experience! There are no hook ups, so be prepared but if you are looking for the dispersed camping experience you have found it. What a gem!
Nancy W.
LegendHickory Run State Park Campground
Peaceful State Park Camping in the Fall
This is a large campground with a wide array of campsites so be careful attention when you book online, especially if you have a pet because some sites are not pet-friendly. Some are 50-amp full hook-up and some are primitive with no hook-ups.
There is a nice nature center with interesting interpretive exhibits and lots of informational brochures including ones about the hiking trails, bears, scat and tracks of local animals, and fishing. Our site was at the edge of the campground and backed up to Route 534 which resulted in a bit of road noise at our site. Other than the road noise the campground was pretty quiet and was not very crowded when we camped there in October.
Not all sites are level and we happened to book one that was not and we had to live with a slant for our stay. The roads in the park are gravel/dirt and since it rained the day we arrived the roads were a muddy mess which made the roads slippery and there were lots of potholes. Unfortunately, some campers were disrespectful and left bags of trash in the fire pit and scattered around their site which was totally unnecessary because there were dumpsters plenty of dumpsters in the campground. Since we camped at Hickory Run late in the season, there were no camp hosts and the trash never got picked up.
The campground is open from mid-April to mid-December; however, the shower facilities and dump station are not available after the third week of October so plan accordingly. We really like the hiking trails which are of varying degrees of difficulty and lengths. The Hawk Falls is a nice easy walk (1.4 miles round-trip) to a waterfall but is extremely popular so don’t think you will be admiring the falls alone. The parking lot at this trail head fills up fast so you better get there early if you want to get a spot.
You can enter the park from two different directions. If you have a big-rig, it is best to approach from the east side. We made the mistake of coming in from the west side as we dropped down from I-80 and came down 534 and the road was really windy with no shoulder. Luckily, there was very little traffic so we could go 10 mph and safely navigate the roads.
Be aware alcohol is not allowed in PA state parks. This park does allow hunting in certain sections of the park. The no-hunting areas are clearly marked with white no hunting signs on trees and you can also pick up a brochure from the office that designates hunting and no-hunting sections.
Tony F.Guide100 Mile View Camping
The best views
This is a hidden gem, as close to dispersed camping you can get with dirt, gravel roads, large stone fire pits, a amazing views with the added benefit of a five gallon jug of non potable water and very clean port-a-potties. The owner regularly patrols the site and makes sure everything is okay.
SkywaystoHighways.com Y.LegendRicketts Glen State Park Campground
Beautiful Falls!
What a great campground! We stayed here on a recommendation from a friend after the Overland Expo. Great hiking trails and the falls were absolutely breathtaking. Truly enjoyed our stay and plan to return!
- WWill W.Guide
Lackawanna State Park Campground
Car camping
Stayed October 14 without reservations because website showed lots of availability. Office was closed (M-F 8-4) so submitted honor system envelope with cash and stayed at Site 041 on Carpenter loop. Shower building was a short walk and was spacious enough. Water temp didn’t quite reach hot but was warm enough.
Electric kept on tripping breaker.
Roger V.
TravelerBake Oven Knob
solid parking place for vans and RVs. road is dirt gravel but not terrible. nice hike nearby
- jjeanne A.Guide
Council Cup Campground
Better than nothing
Small campground with rude owner. Everything I asked about was putting her out. It was cheap though at $36 for water and electric with a military discount.
Daniel C.ScoutHillside Campgrounds
Stay away... Unless you like 70 y/o men acting like high schoolers
This clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
Guide to Plymouth
Camping near Plymouth, Pennsylvania offers diverse options within the Pocono Mountains region at elevations between 700 and 2,000 feet. The area experiences moderate rainfall averaging 45 inches annually, creating lush forest conditions throughout most campgrounds. Weather typically allows for camping from early April through late October, with peak foliage colors attracting additional visitors during September and early October.
What to do
Hiking on varied terrain: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features multiple trail difficulties for all skill levels. "Great hiking! There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" notes Lexi. For those seeking more challenge, many campers recommend the Falls Trail for its scenic value.
Lake activities: Tobyhanna State Park Campground offers swimming, fishing, and kayaking on its reservoir. As visitor Marlaina M. explains, "The lake is nearby and doesn't get crowded. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake. We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite."
Mountain biking opportunities: Moon Lake Recreation Area provides some of the region's best trails. "Place has some of the best mountain bike trails in northeast PA. Camping is primitive but has spots big enough for RVs," according to Daniel F. The trails range from beginner-friendly loops to more technical sections.
What campers like
Lakeside camping sites: Frances Slocum State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its water access. "The park is nice and very clean. There is also plenty to do with a pool, hiking trails, fishing, and a nice lake with boat rental," shares Cynthia P., who visited the campground.
Spacious woodland sites: Many campers value the size of camping areas at campgrounds near Plymouth. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, Bridget D. reports, "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."
Modern facilities: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers newly developed camping areas with full hookups. One visitor noted, "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers. Nice play area for kids, water craft rentals, nice lake."
What you should know
Bear activity in the region: Multiple campgrounds report bear sightings. At Tobyhanna State Park Campground, Erik M. warns, "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. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car."
Variable site privacy: Site spacing differs significantly between campgrounds and loops. At Ricketts Glen, one camper observed, "The campground is a bit crowded during peak season without much privacy. But this is the spot to be if you wanna hit up some trails and see some gorgeous views."
Water conditions: Water quality varies by season. Lee D. experienced this at Ricketts Glen: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers recreational spaces specifically for children. "Nice play area for kids, water craft rentals, nice lake. Plenty of picnic areas for day trips," notes cheryl M.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas. Hickory Run State Park has "a ton to explore and a huge frisbee golf course," according to Sarah L., making it suitable for active families with older children.
Low-traffic camping loops: For families concerned about vehicle traffic, consider Highland Campgrounds, where Jennifer R. reports, "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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Check electrical capacity before booking. At Moyers Grove Campground, Becca U. advises, "Make sure you have a LONG water hose. We actually had to buy a 50 foot hose in the camp store to accommodate the distance to the spigot."
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for RVs. At Ricketts Glen, James S. found, "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."
Low clearance considerations: Some access roads to campsites near Plymouth have limited clearance. At several campgrounds, approach roads may have overhanging branches that can pose challenges for larger RVs, requiring careful navigation through wooded areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Plymouth, PA?
What camping is available near Plymouth, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Plymouth, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 189 campgrounds and RV parks near Plymouth, PA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Plymouth, PA?
Which is the most popular campground near Plymouth, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Plymouth, PA is Ricketts Glen State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 70 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Plymouth, PA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Plymouth, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Plymouth, PA.
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