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Best Tent Camping near Pottsville, PA

855 Reviews

The Appalachian ridgelines and forested valleys surrounding Pottsville, Pennsylvania offer several tent camping options within a 30-mile radius. Tent-only sites at Riverview Park Campground provide riverside camping with basic amenities, while primitive tent camping is available along the Appalachian Trail near Lehigh Gap. Mauch Chunk Lake Park in Jim Thorpe features lakeside tent campsites with more developed facilities, including drinking water and showers. Shambala at Mystic Hollow offers walk-in tent sites along a creek, providing a more secluded experience for tent campers seeking natural surroundings.

Most primitive tent sites require campers to pack in their own water and supplies. The AT Ridge Campground and AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap are accessible only by hiking in, with no facilities beyond stone fire rings. Ground conditions at these backcountry tent sites can be rocky or boggy after rain, making a ground tarp essential for comfortable tent camping. Established campgrounds like Mauch Chunk Lake Park provide flat tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, but sites may have exposed tree roots and rocks that require extra padding for tent floors. Reservations are recommended for most developed tent campgrounds, while primitive sites along the AT operate on a first-come basis.

Tent campers seeking solitude should consider the backcountry sites along the Appalachian Trail. According to one visitor, the AT Ridge Campground offers "excellent spots to set up a tent if you plan on camping up on the ridge," with stone fire rings and space for multiple tents. For those preferring water access, Riverview Park Campground provides tent-only sites along the Lehigh River with picnic benches and fire pits. A camper noted that Mauch Chunk Lake Park has "many sites right along the lake edge, some very large," though they recommended "extra padding for tenters" due to exposed roots and rocks. Summer weekends at established tent campgrounds can become crowded and noisy, while spring and fall offer more peaceful primitive tent camping experiences with fewer neighbors.

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Best Tent Sites Near Pottsville, Pennsylvania (25)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Pottsville, PA

44 Photos of 25 Pottsville Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Pottsville, PA

855 Reviews of 25 Pottsville Campgrounds

  • Ra F.
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

    OK, but camping gets a low rating.

    The park is lovely, but the camping facilities are subpar, primitive and lack any kind of privacy. I bike toured there. The only potable water was from a near-broken water fountain at the public rest rooms and no electrical connection to recharge electronics. There was also a fair amount of road noise at night. Bathhouse OK, but just basic. Tent spots are just lined up against one another facing a service road.

  • Laure D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 19, 2020

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Serenity on the lakes

    Pretty campground with lots of lake views. We arrived just before dark which was good because the sites were not level front to back. Most sites had a slope but there were some level sites. You can kayak, canoe, paddle board, and fish on the lake. There are 2 boat launches. The store wasn’t much to speak of. Bath houses were clean. We walked around the lake on a paved level path. They advertise no alcohol. This is near the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine tour which we loved. It’s near the Yingling Brewery tour.

  • Napunani
    Jun. 25, 2022

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Campsites Jammed Closely Together

    PROS 

    Reserved 328 days prior to arriving

    $13.50 senior discount 

    Immediately greeted by Loop C camp host who was extremely friendly and helpful 

    Site C3 parking pad level asphalt 

    Metal frame wooden picnic table that was moveable 

    One hook lantern pole 

    Metal fire pit which was cleaned out upon our arrival 

    Some vegetation between sites provided a bit of privacy from neighbors sites 

    Park is 21 miles from Valley Forge National Historical Park. Catch National Park Service 90 minute trolley tour at the Visitor Center. 

    Shady Maple Smorgasbord...authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking…largest buffet in the USA…16 miles from French Creek SP 

    CONS

    $6.50 reservation fee for making my own on-line reservation 

    Horrible signage along PA-345. Never saw very small sign when we where intensely searching 

    Such a large overall park, but camping loop sites are jammed together

    Pitiful low water pressure  in Loop C

    Site sewer connection is high; needs to be knocked down to ground level 

    Short length of site caused creative tow vehicle parking 

    Loop C women’s toilet/shower building a big nasty mess Saturday 

    Trash dumpsters are on the main road near the campground check-in station (not walkable) 

    Noisy campground; 9pm quiet hour not enforced

    Lots of barking dogs 

    No wood sales in park 

    No WiFi 

    1 bar Verizon

  • V
    Jul. 11, 2018

    Knoebels Campground

    Clean, quiet, inexpensive, fun place to camp!

    Knoebels campground is situated next to Knoebels amusement park and offers sites for tent campers and RVs, as well as cabins.

    There is electricity at every site but not water. There are fill stations throughout the campgrounds. Most sites are level and shaded. There are nice sturdy wooden platforms for tent campers.

    The bath houses are clean and well maintained. There are outside sinks with mirrors, laundry facilities, shower stalls, and toilet stalls. Or if you prefer there are also traditional bathrooms with showers.

    Quiet hours are enforced between 10p and 8a.

    Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Wood is available by the bucket near the check in building. Sites are inexpensive and are all a short walk, or free shuttle ride, to the park!.

  • Jim N.
    Apr. 29, 2019

    Hibernia County Park

    Hidden gem

    A nice primitive campground - good for a quick trip away. The campground is a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by. They are wooded sites and have 2 loops. There is no store, but there a places close to get supplies. The park is dry, no alcohol. No hook ups either. There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends.

  • T
    Aug. 18, 2022

    Ricketts Glen State Park Campground

    Impromptu trip that we don’t regret!

    This trip was a bit impromptu so we assume most of the good sites were picked over. The site we stayed at was the perfect size for two people, not the biggest site in the campground but we had a bit of a buffer between our neighbors so we weren’t on top of other people. We were located at a bit heavily trafficked area because we were near the entrance of the campground and the restrooms. The state park was beautiful and had a lot of things to do. I recommend doing the Falls trail and to get onto Lake Jean. They have a concessions by Lake Jean that doesn’t only sell food and drinks but some ice and bundle of wood. Definitely bring a hammer because it’s near impossible to stake down your tent by hand because the turf is hard. Would definitely come again and do the primitive group camp option if I can. No cell service (Verizon) but if you drive 10 miles north up towards Lopez we were able to get a signal. This was a nice way to end summer!

  • Max C.
    Oct. 14, 2019

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Gorgeous in the fall

    Stayed in B-08 on mid October and had a great trip. The site was non-electric and it seems most of the outer side of this loop is basic camping with the inside of the loop having power. The other loops offer full hookups but opting for this area kept us from being surrounded by massive RV's. Easy back in spot for our car, partially shaded, decent brush cover between sites and able to keep tent about 20 yards from the road on a crushed rock pad. I will say this site has a little bit of slope but nothing that affected our sleep. The fire ring is very high sided and if you're not sitting on a higher camp chairs you kind of miss the fire. Picnic table was sturdy but easy enough to move lnto place to fit our needs. Tons of hike mg within the park including some historic sites at Hopewell Furnace like the blacksmith shop and old residences. Checked in a. It before the stated 3pm time without issues. Very few rangers seen during stay but it is after labor day and most of the seasonal attractions like the pool etc were closed for the season. Very clean bathrooms with easy to use dish sinks on the outside. Overall for a trip that within 75 minutes of Philly you can't go wrong for a quick jaunt out of town.

  • Tara T.
    Jun. 26, 2021

    Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

    Easy Camping

    Green Lane is a beautiful park with a small campground. The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you’ll definitely be right up on your neighbors. The fire rings are big and frustrating, the fire sits on a lifted grate so you go through wood like crazy. Lovely park, lovely rangers, but not my favorite spot.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2023

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Convenient to Philadelphia

    General: Four loops with a total of 200 campsites. Two of the loops allow pets (A, C) and two do not. Loop D offers no hookups while Loops A-C offer a mix of no hookups, water/Electric, and full hookups. We had no problem securing a site on a weekday in October with no reservation. There are also two yurts and three cottages. 

    Site Quality: We chose a non-electric site in the B Loop, so this review focuses on this loop. There are abundant trees separating the sites. The pads were paved and B12 was very long. A picnic table and fire ring complete the site. Because the loops are on a slight slope, not all of the sites are completely level, something that would be difficult to determine if making reservations ahead of time. 

    Bathhouse: Pennsylvania state parks get high marks for their modern, clean restrooms and this park (at least the B Loop) was no exception. Hot showers were no additional charge and generous in size. 

    Activities: 35 miles of hiking trails. Be aware that the Hopewell Lake Loop is not very well marked (it appears to be a work in progress) although blazes on trees are abundant for most trails. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent during the summer season, and there is a boat dock for your own boat for fishing (either from a fishing pier or on your boat). There is a huge pool available from Memorial Day through Labor Day (there is an additional fee for this). Some of the trails allow horseback riding. Nearby Hopewell Furnace is accessible via hiking trails, or you can drive there. Other activities include orienteering and disc golf. Make sure you wear blaze orange during the fall hunting season as you will hear hunters! 

    In general, it is obvious Pennsylvania invests in its state park campgrounds and the price is reasonable ($27 for a non-electric site during the week with a $4.50 senior discount). My only complaint is that the dumpsters are a hike from the loops, but this is a minor complaint.

Guide to Pottsville

Tent camping near Pottsville, Pennsylvania ranges from backcountry Appalachian Trail sites to lake and riverside camping facilities. The region features elevations between 400-1,600 feet with forested ridges dominating the landscape. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping brings cooler nights and occasional frost, requiring adequate sleeping gear.

What to do

Water activities: kayaking and swimming: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers a designated swimming area with a beach and equipment rentals. One camper shared, "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" while another noted, "I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."

Rafting adventures: 10-minute drive: Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center combines camping with river expeditions on the Lehigh. A visitor commented, "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing," making it ideal for groups wanting organized outdoor activities.

Biking access: paved trail adjacent: The D&L Trail runs alongside Riverview Park Campground, following an old railroad bed. A camper mentioned, "The park itself is located along the D&L biking trail that is on the bed of an old railroad," providing convenient trail access directly from camp.

What campers like

Flat camping surfaces: tent-friendly: Many sites at Mauch Chunk Lake Park feature level areas ideal for setting up tents. A reviewer mentioned, "It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby."

Secluded options: escape crowds: AT Overlook Campground offers primitive sites away from developed campgrounds. A hiker reported, "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."

Group accommodations: spacious sites: The pine forest at AT Group Campsite makes an ideal spot for larger parties. According to one camper, "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."

What you should know

Campsite conditions: variable terrain: Some Mauch Chunk Lake sites have natural obstacles. One camper advised, "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters."

Noise levels: weekend congestion: Summer weekends can be loud at popular spots. A visitor to Mauch Chunk Lake Park noted, "We visited in the summer on a weekend when it was full. The campsites are too close to each other and we were surrounded by very loud campers."

Water access: plan ahead: Backcountry sites require carrying water. For AT Overlook Campground, a hiker warned, "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge."

Tips for camping with families

Beginner-friendly options: good for first-timers: Shambala at Mystic Hollow offers 15 creekside sites with basic amenities. One visitor noted, "Shambala at Mystic Hollow offers great creekside campsites for anyone looking to pitch a tent and enjoy some time by the water."

Entertainment options: on-site activities: Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides multiple recreation choices. A camper shared, "Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals. Also a lot to do in the nearby town."

Quieter times: weekday visits: For peaceful family camping near Pottsville, schedule midweek trips. One Mauch Chunk visitor contrasted experiences: "If you go during the week, it's quite calm," suggesting families avoid summer weekends for more relaxed experiences.

Tips from RVers

Limited hookups: prepare for basics: Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Pottsville offer minimal services for RVs. Rolling Hills Retreats focuses more on tent and glamping accommodations, with one visitor appreciating the privacy: "We are so thankful for the host as he was very accommodating but also gave us privacy."

Private alternatives: secluded options: For RVers seeking separation from typical campground crowds, several private properties offer alternatives to established parks. A visitor to Rolling Hills Retreats noted, "We were able to ground our energy from the earth which is hard to do in a concrete city and really just enjoy one another's company."

Reservation requirements: book ahead: Most sites with RV accommodations require advance planning. Riverview Park Campground warns visitors about spontaneous arrivals: "They will charge you an additional $10 if you show up without planning."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find tent camping near Pottsville?

Several tent camping options exist within driving distance of Pottsville. Hibernia County Park offers primitive tent camping with two loops (Lake Loop and Fiddler's Loop) that operate on a first-come, first-served basis. For Appalachian Trail enthusiasts, AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap provides spectacular valley views with flat, dry tent sites and a stone fire ring. Both locations are affordable options for tent campers looking to enjoy Pennsylvania's natural beauty without traveling too far from Pottsville.

What amenities are available at Pottsville tent camping sites?

Tent camping sites near Pottsville typically offer basic amenities. At Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park, you'll find fire rings, though they have raised grates that can consume wood quickly. The campground provides potable water from public restrooms, but lacks electrical hookups. More facilities are available at Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center, which includes reservable sites with water access and toilet facilities. Most local campgrounds provide picnic tables and fire rings as standard, with varying levels of access to drinking water, restrooms, and shower facilities.

Are there luxury tent camping options near Pottsville?

True luxury glamping options are limited near Pottsville, but some campgrounds offer more comfortable experiences than primitive sites. Scrub Mountain Retreat provides a more secluded experience with drive-in or walk-in access, reservable sites, and water and toilet facilities that elevate the camping experience. Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers additional amenities that make for a more comfortable stay than traditional primitive camping. For a truly luxurious experience, you may need to venture farther from Pottsville to find glamping sites with platform tents, electricity, and full facilities.

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