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Campgrounds near Jessup, Pennsylvania provide access to a range of accommodations throughout the northeastern Pennsylvania wilderness and Pocono Mountains region. Lackawanna State Park Campground, located in North Abington Township, and Tobyhanna State Park Campground in the Pocono Plateau offer cabins, tent sites, and RV camping with electric hookups. The area features several developed campgrounds with varying amenities, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with water and sewer connections. Most established campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with state parks typically opening the second Friday in April and closing after the third Sunday in October.
Camping in northeastern Pennsylvania requires planning around seasonal conditions that affect site availability and access. "We stayed during Covid and everyone was following social distancing guidelines. One downside for some may be the WiFi access. Very poor signal however, we didn't mind, it actually helped us to let loose and not be so attached to all things digital," noted one visitor to a nearby campground. Permits and reservations are strongly recommended for most developed campgrounds, especially during summer weekends and fall foliage season. Many campgrounds in the area restrict alcohol consumption, particularly state park facilities which strictly enforce their no-alcohol policies. Weather considerations include hot, humid summers with occasional thunderstorms and cool spring and fall nights that can approach freezing at higher elevations.
The camping experience around Jessup features opportunities for water recreation and mountain exploration. Several campgrounds offer direct lake access, including sites at Lackawanna State Park and Tobyhanna State Park where campers can launch kayaks or canoes from their campsites. A visitor to Tobyhanna State Park highlighted that "being able to wake up lakeside up in the mountain and looking at the view was an experience that I will always treasure." The proximity to multiple state parks provides hikers access to extensive trail systems, while anglers can take advantage of stocked trout waters. Camping areas throughout the region vary in privacy levels, with some state park campgrounds offering more secluded sites while private campgrounds often feature more amenities but with sites positioned closer together. Wildlife sightings commonly include deer, various birds, and occasionally black bears, requiring proper food storage at all camping locations.
"I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. "
"We didn’t have a view of the lake, instead we were in someone’s back yard lol. It wasn’t a big deal. The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important."
"The sites were a little close to each other and where we were in the park was a mixed use area. So we had an RV next to us with the Genny running all day."
"The main reason we didn't do more was the distance. We have a motorhome so we didn't have additional vehicles to get to and from places."
from $20 - $79 / night
Check Availability"We were looking for a lakeside campground with a spacious campsite that could comfortably fit two large tents and two vehicles."
"Breathtaking views from nearby trails and nearby Big Pocono State Park. The park staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about nearby trails and best places to get the most out of the views!"
from $20 - $43 / night
Check Availability"Pros: beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
"Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."
from $20 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Was also an easy back in site as there’s an adjacent road (to parking and the amphitheater) right in front of it. All sites only have electric and only certain allow pets."
"Large, wooded sites, good bathhouse, nice trails close by. A little highway noise, but dark and quiet at night. Very peaceful place."
from $20 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"
"Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. "
from $20 - $72 / night
Check Availability"Nice lake for fishing . Reasonably priced breakfast on weekends . Great staff . Good utilities and clean bathrooms ."
"This campground was very nice and had so much hiking in and around it. They were very helpful with getting us a site since it was so last minute on a holiday weekend Will be visiting again"
from $0 - $17 / night
Check Availability"The site itself isn't bad, a lot of woods to tuck into if you camp rite."
"Also saw RV sites that were very close to each other. Our tent site is perfect. An area of the lake is to swim and the other to fish in. Catch and release only. Lots of tress for great shade."
LegendJust a few others here so it is quite peaceful. A one mile walk gets you to the lake. They have a covered pavilion with plenty of picnic tables. My site is large with plenty of trees providing shade. The outhouse is a bit of a walk. Garbage cans are inside it. I haven’t seen a water source but it might be around.
TravelerThis area seems to be devoid of campgrounds except for this one. It’s basically just a large parking lot with hook ups. Completely open, which is great for Starlink. Bathrooms were slightly above average; fairly clean and places to hang clothes for your shower. Has a laundry but be sure to bring quarters. It is about 100 yards from the interstate so you’ll get a lot of noise and diesel exhaust fumes.
RangerWe stayed here during a road trip from CT to WA and back. This was our first dispersed campsites of the trip and we really enjoyed it here. We camped in our van, and we were impressed that there were 2 bathrooms at the camp and more porta potties by the lake. Enjoyed hiking with our pups in this pretty area, and found some geocaches too!
RangerWe camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
RangerWe booked a cabin at the last minute and were pleasantly surprised that the cabin had heat and electricity! It was very close to the awesome heated bathroom also! We were also able to catch a beautiful sunset! Great camp all around!
TravelerAnother great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.
RangerWe came here 4th of July weekend, and this is one of the things I love about these sites...they had availability! Our site was very big, and was perfect with sone shade and also lots of sun!
RangerOur travel trailer and our friends' pop up both fit on this site with no problem. The only issue we had is that there is a bit of a ditch that turns to mud after a rain. We were off the beaten path so very little traffic. There was a bathroom with pit toilets down the street. Plenty of places to hike and fish also. We loved it here!
RangerWe came here to ride our ATV's...since it is more than 3 hours from home, we decided to book this spot for the night. We have stayed in a bunch of the DWSF sites. This one was kinda meh. Nearer to the road so traffic at all hours. Picnic table and fire ring, and as always, evidence of people chopping down live trees for firewood. Ugh! We set up our tent and had a nice fire, albeit there was broken glass on the ground. Biting flies worked overtime on us. Not a terrible stay, but we prolly won't book this one again. And these sites are no longer free. As out of state-rs, we paid $21 for one night. Still a good deal.
Camping spots near Jessup, Pennsylvania generally operate from mid-April through mid-October, with most developed campgrounds located within a 30-40 minute drive. The Pocono Plateau region sits at elevations ranging from 1,300-2,300 feet, contributing to cooler evening temperatures even during summer months. Cell service varies widely throughout northeastern Pennsylvania's camping areas, with stronger coverage at some campgrounds and limited connectivity at others.
Swimming options: At Lackawanna State Park Campground, campers have access to both a lake for swimming and "a very large pool." According to David G., "There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool. We went in early spring midweek, it was very quiet and exactly the get away we wanted."
Fishing opportunities: Many lakes in the region are stocked with fish, requiring proper licenses for anglers over 16. At Frances Slocum State Park Campground, the lake provides good fishing, though Jackie F. warns to be careful: "Around the lake people leave their fishing bait and tackle on the ground so please be careful with your pups! Also, DO NOT take your pups to the water. There is a weird bacteria or algae currently growing in the lake, it's completely visible."
Birdwatching and wildlife: Keen Lake Resort offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities from waterside campsites. Marlaina M. from Tobyhanna State Park Campground reports: "We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite." Bear sightings are common in the region, with Erik M. noting, "We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent."
Waterfront sites: Lakeside camping ranks among the most popular features for campers. Shannon C. from Keen Lake Resort Campground noted, "I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. 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."
Campground amenities: Many private campgrounds offer amenity-rich environments. Emily Z. observed that at Keen Lake Resort, "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground. The showers are coin operated. The staff were so accommodating and everyone was super nice. There is a lot for younger kids to do and the grounds are pet friendly."
Hiking trail access: Extensive trail systems cater to various hiking abilities. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, Shirley M. reported, "Many hiking trails (44 miles of trails). They are rated from easy to difficult. We found the 2 trails we hiked - Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails - where were rated 'more difficult' were not bad to hike at all. We hiked both with your 2 large dogs. Both of these trails had a creek and waterfalls."
Weather preparedness: Pocono Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically by season and elevation. Lou R. from Keen Lake Resort warned, "Worst part though was when i did go and camp out for a week near the small pond part it rained and our campsite turned into a complete mud pit." Pack waterproof gear and footwear regardless of season.
Pet policies: Rules for pets vary significantly between campgrounds. Most state parks allow pets only in designated loops. Jackie F. notes at Frances Slocum State Park, "All sites only have electric and only certain allow pets." Private campgrounds often have more pet-friendly policies.
Campsite selection: Study campground maps before booking as site quality varies widely. Emilie D. from Tobyhanna State Park advised, "These sites are RIGHT AGAINST THE ROAD. Other state parks tend to make their sites deep, whereas these are wide. They don't seem to enforce quiet time after 9, which would be fine if each campsite wasn't right up on the neighbor."
Bug prevention: The region's lakes and forests create ideal environments for insects. Shannon C. reported, "The bugs were better than I would have anticipated next to the lake, although some days the flies were a bit annoying." Bring appropriate repellents, especially during summer months.
Planned activities: Secluded Acres Campground offers organized activities for various age groups. Mike H. from Keen Lake Resort noted, "My boys absolutely love it and always have something to do. They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Beach and swimming access: Dedicated swimming areas provide safe recreation for children. According to Harry L., "We were there over 4th of July so the pool was pretty full during the weekend so we decided to utilize the lake for those days and enjoyed the pool during the week once some of the weekenders left."
Playground availability: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. Shirley M. observed at Hickory Run State Park, "There was a large open field in the loop we camped in with a swing set on it. This was nice for families with children." Jennifer R. at Highland Campgrounds noted, "Playground is also older but also gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin."
Digital detox opportunities: Limited connectivity can benefit family time. Emily Z. at Keen Lake Resort advised, "If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool. The store has a huge selection of necessities, so no need to worry about forgetting things."
Site selection: For RVers, choosing the right site makes a significant difference. At Highland Campgrounds, sites vary in size and privacy. Jennifer R. noted, "Whether it's nature and back roads, or wanting to have a dip in the pool and lay in the sun, this campground is the best of both worlds."
Hookup reliability: Electrical systems at older campgrounds may have limitations. David from Lackawanna State Park warned, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Navigation: Access roads to some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. Beverly J. from Cherry Ridge Campsites noted, "Remote, not the place for one night. People friendly and helpful. We were in a back into site."
Full-hookup availability: For extended stays, full-hookup sites are available at several campgrounds. Harry L. at Keen Lake Resort reported, "When we got to our site the sewer pipe was buried and we didn't know where it was, they sent someone out to our site within minutes. After finding it they determined the top flange was crushed but I could still get my drain in there."
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need reservations for Jessup Campground?
Based on camping patterns in the region, reservations are highly recommended for Jessup Campground, especially during peak summer season. Similar to Worthington State Forest Campground and Salt Springs State Park Campground, popular sites fill quickly, particularly on weekends and holidays. You can typically make reservations online through the official park reservation system or by phone. For the most accurate and up-to-date reservation information, contact the campground directly or check their official website before your trip.
Where is Jessup Campground located and how do I get there?
Jessup Campground is located in the Delaware Water Gap region, which is known for scenic camping opportunities. The area is accessible via major highways, similar to Namanock Island and Kittatinny Campground in the same region. Most campers report good road access, though some of the final approach roads may be unpaved or narrow. For precise directions, use GPS coordinates or detailed maps from the official park website. The campground is conveniently situated for visitors from both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, making it a popular destination for weekend getaways.
What amenities are available at Jessup Campground?
Jessup Campground offers basic amenities typical of public campgrounds in the region. Similar to Steam Mill Campground, you can expect fire rings and picnic tables at most sites. The campground likely has pit toilets or vault restrooms, but may not offer shower facilities. Water is available from spigots or pumps in common areas. Unlike Mount Pocono Campground which has extensive amenities like swimming pools and an on-site store, Jessup maintains a more rustic camping experience. There's good access to hiking trails and potentially fishing opportunities nearby, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking a more primitive camping experience.
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