Camping near Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania offers visitors diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,600 feet with mild summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. The area's position within the Appalachian Mountain range creates unique microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Most campgrounds in the region close between late October and mid-April due to freezing temperatures and snow accumulation.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Hickory Run State Park: Located 35 minutes from Saylorsburg, this park has numerous wildlife observation points. "Clean, great camp store, dog friendly loop, great hikes accessible from campground!!" notes Christa I. about Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Stargazing at isolated sites: Uncle Willie's campground sits at the foot of Kittatinny Mountain with open field camping areas perfect for astronomy. "Beautiful Family owned farm at the foot of Kittatinny mountain along the AT. Very easy drive to hiking in Delaware Water Gap. Incredible star gazing!" writes Susan M. about Uncle Willie's.
Lakeside activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming, fishing and boating. "There is a big lake you can fish from, kayak, bring your own boat and even swim from when it's warm out. You can rent paddle boats, small fish boats and kayaks," explains Tiffany S. from her stay at Otter Lake Camp Resort.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness ranks high in positive reviews. "The bathrooms are large and well kept. The lake is nearby and doesn't get crowded. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake," shares Marlaina M. about her experience at Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. "The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade. It was a very quiet weekend for us as our loop was not crowded," mentions Shirley M. about Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Wolf Preserve access: A unique feature for luxury camping near Saylorsburg is the wolf sanctuary. "The wolf preserve at the same location was just amazing - we learned so much and could hear the wolves howl from the campsite. Hiked to Mt. Tammany from the campsite for the best view in NJ (9 miles round trip)," writes Dina S. about her stay at Camp Taylor Campground.
What you should know
Bear precautions required: Bear activity is common in the Pocono Mountains. "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. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," warns Erik M. at Tobyhanna State Park.
Site selection matters: Campsite quality varies widely even within the same campground. "Our particular camp site was huge! There was plenty of room for us to spread out. The campground had many different types of sites. Some were big and socially distanced like the one we had. But some were extremely small and very close to the next camper," explains Carol N. about Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA.
Winter camping options: While most glamping sites near Saylorsburg close for winter, a few remain open. "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven! The views are breathtaking, the walk around the lake is great, and the facilities are super clean," shares Melody about their winter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with young children, choose sites near play areas. "Easy check in and check out. Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids," notes Penny C. from Mount Pocono Campground.
Multiple activity options: Look for campgrounds offering various recreation choices. "There is a huge swimming pool and a toddler's pool. There is an on-site store with everything you need to make your stay comfortable. The game room has pool tables, ping pong, arcade games, library, gym, and so much more!" mentions Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about Mount Pocono Campground.
Kid-friendly entertainment: Scheduled activities help keep children engaged. "Great activities for all ages. Had an amazing first visit and will be going back!" says Jojo P. about Otter Lake Camp Resort's organized events which include archery and ceramics for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: RVers recommend researching specific sites before booking. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. Once you have backed into the spot and leveled out it's a good time. The section of spots toward the back by the pond are usually packed and lots of activity and early morning active children," advises Julie F. from Mountainview Campground.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies by campground and site. "Campsites are nice and large, can hold multiple tents. The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," notes Sarah about Mountainview Campground, which makes it suitable for various RV power needs.
Seasonal rental options: For those seeking regular getaways near Saylorsburg, seasonal RV sites provide convenience. "We drive from Arizona to camp here for 6 weeks each year. All sites are wooded, clean and spacious. We have been coming here for 11 years!" shares Barbara M. about her experience at Otter Lake Camp Resort.
