Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers diverse accommodation options beyond standard campsites. The campground features dedicated hike-in tent sites for those seeking a more secluded experience, while maintaining access to the park's extensive trail network. Located approximately 100 miles northwest of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, this camping destination sits at 1,300 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures in summer months compared to lower elevations in the region.
What to do
Hiking the trail system: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple trail difficulties. "There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" reports Lexi. The trails range from easy lakeside walks to more challenging terrain.
Boulder field exploration: Hickory Run State Park Campground features a unique geological attraction. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," says Amber A. The boulder field is accessible via a stone road drive through the woods.
Water recreation: Multiple activities await at the lakes throughout the region. "The lake is nice, but there is no gas boats allowed on the lake (cool!)," notes David about Lackawanna State Park. Most campgrounds offer swimming areas, fishing spots, and boat rentals during peak season.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers premium waterfront sites. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm," explains Lisa S. These sites allow direct lake access, perfect for those seeking upscale glamping close to Plymouth, Pennsylvania.
Heated swimming options: For glamping enthusiasts wanting comfort, Pioneer Campground provides amenities beyond basic swimming. "It was super hot so the pool was a nice cool down after a long day, and they had activities and tractor rides for the holiday weekend," shares Heather K. This adds an extra layer of comfort for those seeking luxury camping experiences.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently note the maintenance standards at the parks. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground," says Emily Z. about Keen Lake Resort Campground. Well-maintained facilities enhance the glamping experience for those who prefer camping with creature comforts.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: While some campgrounds offer spacious sites, others place units close together. "The sites were not too close together. Overall, we'd come back," notes Jen about Lackawanna State Park Campground.
Seasonal water conditions: Tobyhanna State Park Campground has unique water characteristics. "The lake is very nice a little copper kind of like iced tea color but was very nice," explains Erik M. This coloration is natural and doesn't impact swimming quality.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be significant, particularly in spring and fall. "We stayed Thursday through Sunday. It was chilly in the mornings and evenings and warm and sunny during the day. Perfect fall weather," shares Angela about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Keen Lake Resort Campground caters specifically to families. "There is a lot for younger kids to do and the grounds are pet friendly which was a huge plus for us. My kids really loved having a pool to swim in,in addition to the lake," notes Emily Z.
Consider Halloween-themed weekends: Special events make fall camping particularly appealing. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," explains Gayle B. about Pioneer Campground's seasonal activities.
Check for shower facilities: For families needing comfort while luxury camping near Plymouth, Pennsylvania, bathroom facilities matter. "Nice little camping community in the Poconos... The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground. *The showers are coin operated," notes Emily Z., highlighting an important planning detail.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require preparation. "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," shares Angie G. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Late arrival considerations: Woodland settings can complicate nighttime navigation. "I would suggest getting there while it is still light out, there is plenty of room on the roads to get your rig around the campground, but there are lots of trees and it gets a little hard sometimes to see where the road is vs a site," advises Gregory L. about Pioneer Campground.
Hookup variations: Different loops offer different amenities. "Stayed in the fairly new ledges loop that are all full hookup sites. Nice large sites, beautiful area, friendly rangers," reports Cheryl M. about Lackawanna State Park Campground, important information for RVers seeking luxury camping options.
