Glamping close to Portland, Pennsylvania offers varied camping experiences from woodland settings to river views within the Delaware Water Gap region. Situated at elevations between 300-1,500 feet, the area experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F with occasional evening thunderstorms. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though some RV sites remain open year-round.
What to do
Hiking directly from campsites: At Camp Taylor Campground, trails connect to major networks. "There are miles of hiking trails and direct access to the Appalachian Tr. We walked to the point at Mt Tammany for a great view of the river," explains Jean T.
Wolf preserve tours: The Lakota Wolf Preserve offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," notes Julie F. from Camp Taylor.
Water activities: Local campgrounds provide river access for kayaking and tubing. "The Delaware is beautiful in this area and worth the stay," explains one camper from Delaware River Family Campground. "Great for tubing and boating in the river. Large sites. Nice pool," adds Richard V.
Winter activities: Unlike many seasonal operations, some campgrounds remain open year-round. "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake Camp Resort for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven! The other campers are friendly and welcoming, the views are breathtaking," shares Melody.
What campers like
Secluded woodland sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with natural privacy. "Very wooded. Some sites are more private than others but all have a wooded and private feel," notes Kathy G. about Camp Taylor. Similarly, at Jenny Jump State Forest, "the camp sites are nicely laid out to ensure privacy. This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views," according to Jocelyn G.
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned. "Clean Bathrooms," reports Jean T. about Camp Taylor, while at Jenny Jump State Forest, "the bathroom/shower was only a few steps away which was convenient and clean," according to Kelsey K.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and the Delaware River provide fishing access. "There is a big lake you can fish from, kayak, bring your own boat and even swim from when it's warm out," explains Tiffany S. about Otter Lake Camp Resort, which features "lakefront with full hook up" sites according to Stephanie C.
Varied accommodation options: Beyond traditional tent sites, many locations offer alternative structures. "The camping selection of sites is excellent with Cabins, Glamping tents, primitive tent sites and of course RV sites," notes Denise D. about the camping near Portland, Pennsylvania.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Quality varies significantly between sites. At Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA, "The campground had many different types of sites. Some were big and socially distanced like the one we had. But some were extremely small and very close to the next camper," warns Carol N.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in this wooded region have connectivity issues. "The cell service for most providers is practically non-existent," notes Jim G. about Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South.
Seasonal differences: Campground atmosphere changes dramatically by season. "We went on 4th of July weekend so the place was packed. We were able to get a secluded spot in the woods which was great!" reports Jojo P. about Panther Lake Camping Resort.
Reservations essential: Popular weekends book quickly, especially for premium sites. "We wish there was easier access to bike and hike trails so we didn't have to drive to a location but overall a comfortable and positive experience," notes Kelly F. about Delaware Water Gap KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. "Great Divide Campground is a beautiful campground with much to do around the grounds themselves. They had live music which was actually really good!!! A reggae band," shares Julie.
Educational experiences: Several campgrounds offer structured learning opportunities. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite," explains Dina S. about Camp Taylor.
Water-based fun: Swimming areas provide summer relief. "The swimming pond is pleasant and great to cool off in. The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit," notes Kathy G.
Noise considerations: Family camping areas can be lively. "Unlike many other campgrounds we've been to, they are very good about actually enforcing the quiet hours at night, so you can have an actual peaceful and quiet night around the campfire," mentions Dan B. about Camp Taylor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region require leveling equipment. "Check-in was quick and easy in spite of Covid precautions. This is a first-come, first-serve park in the Thousand Trails system so we had to drive around looking for a spot," explains Jim G. about Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South.
Hookup variations: Services differ between campgrounds and sites. "Sites are large in most cases. All have fire pit and picnic table, some have bbq grill too," notes Robert M. about Timothy Lake South.
Seasonal planning: Some full-service sites close during winter. "There are only a handful of full hook up sites surrounded by seasonal cottages. Other area of the place had water and electric but it would be hard to get in/out of if it had rained a lot as it was all on soft grass," warns April L. about seasonal camping options.
