Tent camping near Prompton, Pennsylvania offers access to the upper reaches of the Delaware River watershed, with elevations ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 feet throughout the region. The area experiences distinct seasons with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F during day and cooling to 55-65°F at night. Many campsites in this region require proper food storage containers due to active wildlife, particularly raccoons and black bears.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Several tent camping locations provide easy access to regional waterfalls. At Namanock Island, campers can "paddle across the river from the site, it is only a 10-15 minute hike along the road on the Pennsylvania side of the river to reach Raymondskill Falls. A 'must-see' if your stopping here."
Paddling adventures: Waterways near Prompton provide excellent kayaking opportunities. Campers note that "lakes connecting rivers/streams are very cool and jungly" around the camping areas, making for excellent day trips. Water levels vary seasonally, with spring bringing higher water levels requiring more paddling skill.
Stargazing: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing conditions. One camper at Hillside Campgrounds noted that "once darkness falls there are no lights to be seen in either direction, up or down river... an incredible view of the night sky." Peak viewing occurs between 10pm and 2am during summer months.
What campers like
Island camping experiences: For a unique camping option, island sites offer complete seclusion. A camper described their experience: "Let me say that of all the places I have ever camped, having an entire island to yourself is a feeling I have never experienced anywhere else." Island sites typically need to be reached by kayak or canoe.
Men's-only campground option: Hillside Campgrounds offers a specialized camping environment. One visitor reported it's "a men's only campground where they have different themes on weekends. Generally fun and where people can be themselves (as long as they are men)." The campground features weekend events throughout the camping season.
Clean, well-maintained primitive sites: Many campers praise the condition of primitive sites in the region. At Namanock Island, a visitor found "the campsites on this island are always very clean, if not pristine. In the 7 years I have camped here I do not think I have even wore shoes here once. Never any glass or trash anywhere."
What you should know
Regulations: River camping at Namanock Island has specific rules enforced by rangers. A camper notes: "People found camping at this site that are not on a river trip or that are camped at the site for longer than one day can expect to receive hefty fines from the NPS." Always check current regulations before your trip.
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can develop quickly in this region. Pack accordingly with proper rain gear and tent setup equipment. Temperature swings of 20-30 degrees between day and night are common, especially in spring and fall.
Limited firewood: Several sites have restrictions on collecting firewood. One camper at Second District Brew Farm was "a bit nervous about collecting fire wood being the place was so clean but collected enough. Definitely would stop at one of the many places along the way to buy fire wood."
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for groups: Some locations offer more spacious accommodations for families. At Quilted Woods, the campsites are "VERY spacious, we have used 5 tents at one time here, 6 or more boats, and when you add the main campfire as well as the couple minor fires throughout the camp that were burning, there was no feel of crowding at all."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Prompton region offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities for children. One camper reported: "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!" Dawn and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing times.
History lessons: The area contains significant historical sites worth exploring with children. A camper mentioned that "this area is rich in history, folklore, legends and locations that anyone camping here would truly enjoy knowing/seeing." The local historical society offers kid-friendly history maps for many sites.
Tips from RVers
Walk-in sites: RVers using tent sites at Oh! Pear Orchards need to plan for the walk-in nature of camps. A visitor noted "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site, though we did not need that with the cart."
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping sites near Prompton lack traditional RV hookups. Instead, many RVers use these locations as secondary tent camping options when exploring the region by RV. Pack accordingly with portable power solutions if needed.
Internet considerations: Connectivity varies widely across the region. One camper at Hillside Campgrounds reported "Wifi and internet coverage is decent," though this isn't universal. Download maps and guides before arrival, especially for primitive sites.
