Tent camping near Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania offers opportunities for primitive camping along ridgelines and waterways across northeastern Pennsylvania. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400-1,300 feet with temperature swings of 30°F between day and night in spring and fall. Conditions vary dramatically by location, with riverside sites often encountering muddy conditions after rainfall while ridge campsites typically remain drier due to natural drainage.
What to do
Paddle Catfish Pond: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center provides water access with kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the wildlife-rich pond. "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries," suggests one visitor who notes the presence of "fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
Explore Jim Thorpe: Mauch Chunk Lake Park serves as an excellent base for exploring the historic town. "There's much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by," notes Katie S. The campground sits just minutes from downtown attractions and outdoor activities.
Overnight river trips: For multi-day paddling adventures, primitive riverside campsites provide convenient stops. "Primitive site for multi day river trips... Each area has its own fire ring and multiple river pull offs for easy finding and access," explains a camper about the riverside accommodations available along the Delaware.
What campers like
Secluded water access: Walter's Boat In Campsites offers a unique two-level camping experience. "We were able to leave the boats on the lower level (yet more than high enough that the river is no issue), and camped on the upper level. There are railroad tie stairs from the river up to the site, making it nice weather muddy or dry."
Ridge views: AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap provides exceptional valley vistas. "You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky," reports Asher K., who encountered wild turkeys while camping.
Space between sites: Jenny Jump State Forest offers campsites with significant privacy. "The space was reasonably priced, but we did have to pay an extra $5/day for our dog. However, we didn't mind as it was so private we felt like we had the entire Park to ourselves," shares Kelsey K. about her tent camping experience.
What you should know
Supplies and services: Scrub Mountain Retreat provides drinking water, trash disposal, picnic tables and other amenities many primitive sites lack. Remember that many backcountry locations require complete self-sufficiency.
Weather preparedness: Temperature changes can be significant throughout the Poconos region, with sites near water experiencing higher humidity levels. Pack additional layers for evening temperature drops, especially at higher elevations.
Emergency access: Some remote sites maintain emergency routes. For example, Alosa Campsites features "an emergency pick up/access road available as well with contact from the park."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly locations: Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center combines camping with organized activities. "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing. The campground is definitely great for Girl Scout or school groups," mentions Katie S., though she adds it's not ideal "if you are looking for a peaceful campground."
Easier access camping: Some locations offer shorter approaches to campsites. Mauch Chunk Lake Park features spots that don't require extensive hiking. "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do," reports Mackenzie B.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming access during summer months. At Camp Mohican, "swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond" according to visitor reviews, providing a cooling activity during hot weather.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Jenny Jump State Forest campsites vary significantly in terms of terrain quality. "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks," notes Seth K. These conditions affect both tent and RV campers.
Noise considerations: Highway sounds can impact camping experiences at certain locations. At Jenny Jump State Forest, "my only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night," reports Jocelyn G., something RVers should consider when selecting sites.
Electric hookups: Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides electric hookups for RVs but lacks sewer connections. The campground offers wooded sites with varying terrain. "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," advises Amber M., a consideration that affects both tent and RV campers.
