R
Russell A.
Scout
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!
Tent Camping near Pocono Pines, PA
3 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Tent campsites in the Delaware Water Gap area surrounding Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania range from established grounds to remote backcountry spots. The Appalachian Trail corridor provides multiple primitive tent camping opportunities, with sites like AT Overlook Campground offering ridgeline views and Kirkrige Shelter featuring spots directly accessible from the trail. Manny Gordon Recreation Area in Pinchot State Forest maintains open tent camping areas with existing fire rings and ample spacing between sites.
The terrain at most tent campgrounds varies considerably, with pine needle beds at group sites near Lehigh Gap and rocky surfaces at riverside locations. Many primitive tent sites require careful planning as they lack basic amenities. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center provides drinking water and trash disposal for tent campers, while backcountry sites along the AT require visitors to pack in all supplies. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "previous campers have been kind enough to build up a sizable stone fire ring" at overlook sites, but campers should still prepare for self-sufficient camping. Ticks are prevalent in warmer months, particularly at Manny Gordon Recreation Area, so appropriate spray is essential.
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area features multiple boat-in tent camping options along the river, creating a unique experience for paddlers. These primitive tent sites offer varying levels of seclusion and terrain quality. A visitor commented that Walter's Boat In Campsites provides "two different levels to the campsite, which is nice for boaters," with space to leave boats on the lower level while camping on the upper section. Tent campers seeking ridge views should consider the AT sites near Lehigh Gap, where open areas surrounded by fern fields provide scenic vantages in multiple directions. Many tent-only sites become muddy after rain, so ground tarps are recommended, particularly at primitive locations with no tent platforms. Most walk-in tent sites require short hikes from parking areas, with distances varying from 100 yards to half a mile depending on the location.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Pocono Pines (42)
1. Manny Gordon Recreation Area Campground — Pinchot State Forest
"Very open, plenty of space. most campgrounds have previously stocked wood from other people, makes setting up very convenient. lots of ticks tho so get your spray"
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
2. Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
"This spot is right next to a beautiful view on the side of Kittany Mountain and just off the Appalachian trail. There is 4 spots to set up at all of which have a spot for a fire."
3. Scrub Mountain Retreat
from $30 - $35 / night
4. Mauch Chunk Lake Park
"Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone."
"Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
5. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center
Check Availabilityfrom $10 / night
6. Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"It had 5-6 platforms, privys, big fire ring, a grill, a beatbox, a large pavilion w/picnic tables and a real full sized bathroom only 100 yards away."
"You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife."
Check Availabilityfrom $5 - $75 / night
7. Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
"There is no public road access to the campsite. Secondly, the site is maintained by the NPS, (National Park Service) within the DWGNRA, (Delaware Water Gap National Recreational Area)."
Check Availabilityfrom $16 / night
8. AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap
"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."
9. George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter
"A single-level open-sided AT shelter near the Lehigh Gap trailhead. The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers."
10. AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap
"This site is really 2 separate sites that are a short ways apart along the trail. They are both excellent spots to set up a tent if you plan on camping up on the ridge."
Drive Time
- 28 min from Scranton, PA
- 53 min from Allentown, PA
- 1 hr 26 min from Reading, PA
- 1 hr 30 min from Kiryas Joel, NY
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Pocono Pines, PA
70 Photos of 42 Pocono Pines Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Scrub Mountain Retreat
Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center
BMR Operations, LLC dba Blue Mountain Resort By: BM Resort Management, LLC its Authorized Agent
Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Wooded Campground
Ratcliff's River Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Hornbeck's River Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Sandyston Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Tent Camping Reviews near Pocono Pines, PA
1180 Reviews of 42 Pocono Pines Campgrounds
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.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
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.
- 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.
Thomas B.
RangerNeversink River Resort
Cool Riverside Campground
I'll start by saying this is a site-specific review (C20). I booked using Campspot and didn't select my own site but put in the criteria for my rig (30ft TT plus truck) and got a 50A back-in spot. The site was big but abnormal. Between the picnic table placement and the trees, I ended up right around 50ft from the electric and water, and the water spigot was so low I could barely put on my camco filter. With the uneven dirt roads, I had to unhitch with my truck in a gigantic puddle (lol). The site was otherwise fine aside from my gate code not working on Day 2. As for the campground as a whole, I thought it was pretty unique place by the river that offered several good amenities and activities, like downstream river tubing, an arcade, bathroom/shower facilities, a small store, little trails, and more. I would say this place borders the more primitive side.
Guide to Pocono Pines
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Pocono Pines, PA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pocono Pines, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pocono Pines, PA is Manny Gordon Recreation Area Campground — Pinchot State Forest with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Pocono Pines, PA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Pocono Pines, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 42 tent camping locations near Pocono Pines, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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