The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area near Reeders, Pennsylvania spans 70,000 acres with elevations ranging from 300 to 1,600 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during daytime hours, while nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s even during summer months. Many tent sites throughout the region require proper food storage containers due to active black bear populations.
What to do
Paddleboarding on Mauch Chunk Lake: Just 30 minutes from Reeders, visitors can launch paddleboards directly from lakeside campsites at Mauch Chunk Lake Park. "I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes one camper who frequently visits the lake.
Hiking at Jenny Jump State Forest: Located 20 miles east of Reeders, Jenny Jump State Forest offers several moderately difficult trails with scenic overlooks. A regular visitor mentions that "you are able to hike out straight from the campsite(which is always a plus!). There's a great look out point as well."
Kayaking Catfish Pond: At Mohican Outdoor Center, campers can rent kayaks for exploring the local pond. According to one visitor, "If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the space between tent sites in the region. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, one visitor noted, "The Group Campsite was really big. 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."
Lakefront camping access: At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, campers particularly enjoy waterfront sites. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm," advises a regular visitor who enjoys the clean, clear waters.
Beginner-friendly options: Many locations near Reeders provide good starting points for new campers. One visitor to Mauch Chunk Lake Park shared, "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 on the campground and nearby."
What you should know
Seasonal toilet facilities: Most primitive sites have basic toilet facilities, though availability varies seasonally. At Bushkill Creek Campsite, a boat-in primitive site, one camper reported, "No privy that we found, but a good fire ring and plenty of space for tents. The path up to the campsite from the river gets a little steep, but not bad."
Traffic noise at some sites: Despite their natural settings, some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads. At Jenny Jump State Forest, a camper mentioned, "My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
Ticks are prevalent: Proper insect protection is essential when tent camping near Reeders, Pennsylvania. A visitor to Manny Gordon Recreation Area noted, "lots of ticks tho so get your spray."
Tips for camping with families
Shelters as alternative to tents: For families new to camping, shelters provide an easier introduction. At Jenny Jump State Forest, one family found that "the 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Kid-friendly swimming: Walter's Boat In Campsites on the Delaware River offer natural swimming spots. While the access requires boats, one camper notes, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can spot various wildlife at most campgrounds in the area. One camper at Jenny Jump State Forest mentioned their campground was "close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany. The campgrounds and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Great place to get away for the weekend with the family!!!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: True RV camping is limited near Reeders, with most sites being tent-focused. At Wooded Campground, visitors note the facilities are "Perfect land for an overnight before hitting the trail. There's open field and wooded options."
Water and electricity limitations: Many campgrounds near Reeders have limited or no hookups. At Camp Starry Night, one visitor had to adapt: "there was a 5 gallon water container and we were advised of where we could fill up if need be which was just at the bottom of the field near the entrance to the campsite."
Road access challenges: Some camping areas have difficult access roads. At Walter's River Campsite, a visitor points out that "this site is only accessible by canoes or kayaks. There is no public road access to the campsite."
