Campgrounds near Rowland, Pennsylvania range from State Park facilities to private camping areas along the Delaware River. The region sits within the Pocono Mountains, with elevations between 1,200 to 2,300 feet and cooler summer temperatures compared to nearby cities. Overnight temperatures often drop into the 50s even during summer months, requiring campers to pack warmer clothing for evenings.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling access: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, campers can launch directly from lakeside sites. "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake," notes one visitor.
Wildlife observation: Bear sightings are common throughout the Pocono region. A visitor at High Point State Park Campground shared their wilderness experience: "The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing. The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Hiking opportunities: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the region. A camper at Stokes State Forest mentioned, "There are 21 marked trails that cover over 63 miles within the boundaries. Twelve miles are part of the Appalachian Trail."
What campers like
River access: Slumberland at the River's Edge offers unique waterfront camping. One visitor explained, "The lack of phone service was a blessing in disguise, allowing us to disconnect from technology and truly immerse ourselves in nature."
Lake swimming: Pickerel Point Campground provides direct lake access. A camper noted, "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one."
Campsite privacy: Site selection affects privacy significantly. At Keen Lake Resort, one camper advised: "Get a site on the lake. You won't have a ton of privacy but you'll have space for your stuff. If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly. At Narrowsburg Campground, campers should prepare for both heat and cold. "The sites are spread out just enough to feel like we had good privacy," noted one camper, though another mentioned noise can be an issue during peak times.
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. A camper at Pickerel Point observed, "Open year round. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon."
Reservation timing: State parks like Promised Land fill quickly during summer weekends. At Deerfield Campground, a visitor advised, "There are several different camping areas within the park. Some areas are pet friendly while others are not. Some sites have hookups while others are primitive."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: Not all campgrounds allow pets. A Pickerel Point camper shared, "Certain sites allow pets. My favorite site does, plus I can launch my kayak right from there! The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think."
Educational programs: Look for parks with ranger-led activities. At The Pines Campground, one visitor mentioned, "We were impressed that they got a bag full of stuff when we checked in. It was also a pleasant surprise that they offered environmental education programs."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A Stokes State Forest camper noted, "For the most part, each campsite has its own porta potty or it shared with a couple other sites. At the entrance of the campground, there is a bathhouse with running water, bathrooms, and potable water."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. In The Pines Campground, a camper advised, "If you are in a camper or RV, I think that the Beechwood loop looked best. We stayed in the northwoods loop, which was ok but more conducive to tent camping."
Dump station timing: At busy times, plan for delays. "Big line at dump station when we were leaving," mentioned one RVer at The Pines Campground.
Water hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. At Wilsonville Rec Area, a visitor warned, "Water and electric. RV dump station on site. This is a family campground right in the middle of everything there is to do around the lake and in the area."
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