Campgrounds throughout the Pocono Pines region vary significantly in elevation, with sites ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 feet above sea level, creating distinct microclimates across camping areas. The region receives approximately 46 inches of rainfall annually, making proper tent placement and drainage considerations important during summer camping trips. Seasonal campers will find notable temperature variations between spring and fall visits.
What to do
Explore boulder fields: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, visitors can experience unique geological formations. "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," shares Amber A., who also notes the park offers "tons of hiking trails, some great views, loads of waterfalls, some swimming."
Paddle around lakes: Launching kayaks and canoes directly from campsites is possible at Pickerel Point Campground. Nancy L. mentions, "My favorite site does [allow pets], plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" The campground provides easy water access at multiple points. For those without personal watercraft, Otter Lake Camp Resort offers rentals for exploring their scenic waters.
Hike mountain trails: Within the Cranberry Run Campground property, visitors can access mountain paths directly from their sites. Ashley S. describes, "We were also right at the bottom of a trail that led straight up the mountain (Pocono) with beautiful sites and of course photo opportunities for my family and I. There's nothing like yoga on huge rocks you could fall off of to get your blood flowing."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers specifically mention the well-maintained bathhouses. At Mount Pocono Campground, Rennie S. reports it has the "Cleanest campground bathhouse I've ever used!" Similarly, at Hemlock Campground & Cottages, Luis B. notes, "The bathhouse is always clean and has hot water available at all times." These consistently positive comments about cleanliness appear across multiple reviews.
Waterfront sites: Campsites with direct lake or river access rank among the most appreciated in the region. At Worthington State Forest Campground, Mitchell E. describes, "Our campsite was located along the Delaware river with a short walk down to be able to launch our canoe and kayak." Similarly, at Pickerel Point, Carolyn M. enjoyed how "Mine overlooked the water and had a gorgeous sunset."
Shaded camping spots: The forested setting provides welcome relief during summer months. At Mountain Vista Campground, Tori S. notes, "The tent sites are fully shaded." Similarly, at Otter Lake Camp Resort, Barbara M. confirms "All sites are wooded, clean and spacious," making the natural surroundings a consistent highlight for visitors seeking temperature regulation and privacy.
What you should know
Bear activity: Multiple campgrounds in the region have documented bear sightings. Erik M. at Tobyhanna State Park Campground warns, "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent." Jennifer D. at Hickory Run notes being "warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings."
Seasonal operation: Most private and state campgrounds close for winter. According to campground details, the typical operating season runs "2nd Friday in April to 3rd Sunday in October" for state parks like Hickory Run and Tobyhanna. For private campgrounds like Mount Pocono Campground, the season typically spans "May 1 to Oct 31," with few options remaining open year-round.
Rough terrain: Many sites feature natural, uneven surfaces. John S. from Peaceful Woodlands Campground describes the challenge: "The one we had was cramped between the picnic table, fire ring, 6 person tent and the car." At other locations, rocky terrain may require specialized equipment, as Karralee B. experienced: "I highly suggest stakes made for this type of ground. I was unprepared."
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Mount Pocono Campground offers structured programming for different age groups. As Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure describes, "There are lots of amenities for every family member and the staff is friendly and welcoming. There is a huge swimming pool and a toddler's pool." Nick L. adds there's "a schedule for events all weekend" including "friendly environment, plenty to do with family."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Tobyhanna State Park, Erik M. notes they "have a few hiking trails we didn't get to do, also have a horse shoe pit volleyball ball area and a little play area in the camping area. There was plenty more at the swimming area." Similarly, Hemlock Campground offers "a park for kids to play in."
Family-friendly sites: When camping with children, site selection matters. Shirley M. recommends Hickory Run where "There is a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children." For larger family groups, Sarah L. found Cranberry Run accommodating: "We had a group of 10 people and they were able to put us all on the same site."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: RV sites with full connections vary across campgrounds. At Mountain Vista Campground, Corey P. notes, "Many full hook up sites, shady areas, and you can get set up for a weekend for less than $100 (Discount for cash sale)." Debbie W. shares that Pickerel Point offers "full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna."
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds present navigation difficulties for larger rigs. Cranberry Run's entrance poses challenges as Corey P. describes: "The driveway is a little hairy - steep with crushed stone on top of pavement. Which led to some tire slippage on the way up with our setup." RVers should research individual site dimensions before booking.
Seasonal considerations: Off-peak camping offers unique advantages. Melody from Otter Lake Camp Resort shares, "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven!" While Mara S. notes that Pickerel Point offers winter access but "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers."
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