Tent campsites near Schnecksville, Pennsylvania are nestled within the Blue Mountain ridgeline, which forms part of the eastern section of the Appalachian Mountains. This area sits at elevations ranging from 400 feet in the valleys to over 1,600 feet along the ridgeline. Camping options include waterfront sites at Mauch Chunk Lake where summer temperatures average 80-85°F, and more remote sites along the Appalachian Trail where temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months.
What to do
Paddle boarding on Mauch Chunk Lake: Launch directly from lakeside campsites at Mauch Chunk Lake Park where the water is exceptionally clear. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes Lisa S.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access multiple sections of the AT from AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap, a primitive camping area surrounded by fern fields. The trailhead at Blue Mountain Road provides parking for day-hikers and backpackers. "This site is really 2 separate sites that are a short ways apart along the trail. They are both excellent spots to set up a tent if you plan on camping up on the ridge," reports Asher K.
River camping and cycling: Book a tent site at Riverview Park Campground for direct access to both the Lehigh River and the D&L biking trail built on an old railroad bed. Sites include picnic tables and fire pits at $10 additional fee for unplanned stays. "This is the perfect place for camping if you are adventuring out on the Lehigh River and want to get an early start or stay the night," shares Asher K.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Many campers recommend mid-week visits to Mauch Chunk Lake Park for a more peaceful experience. "If you go during the week, it's quite calm," notes one camper, contrasting with weekend experiences when the campground fills up.
Protected ridge views: The AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap offers strategic positioning for both sunrise and sunset views from your tent. "By far the best campsite option on this section of the AT! You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky," recommends Asher K.
Group camping facilities: The pine forest at AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap creates a comfortable environment for larger parties. "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area. This site sits a little ways back from the trail but is a nice quiet and secluded spot," according to Asher K.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity warnings are posted throughout the Lehigh Gap area. "When I was up here I came across a flock of wild turkeys who thoroughly scared me when they flew off. I was already on edge since there are several signs warning of high bear activity," reports one camper at the AT Overlook Campground.
Water availability: Most primitive camping along the AT requires bringing your own water. "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge," advises one hiker. Springs near shelters may provide water but require filtration.
Ground conditions: Rain can significantly impact tent camping comfort at primitive sites. The Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground can become particularly wet after rainfall. "When I was here it had recently rained and the site was overall pretty boggy. The ground was relatively soft but without a good ground tarp, you might get a little wet," notes Asher K.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers excellent amenities for first-time campers. "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," recommends Mackenzie B.
Family activities: Look for campgrounds with built-in recreation. "GREAT first trip! The campgrounds were nice and there was a lot to do. Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals," shares Danny M. about his camping experience.
Noise considerations: Weekend camping at established campgrounds can be louder than expected. Pack earplugs for light sleepers, especially during summer peak season. One camper noted Mauch Chunk can get very busy: "It's a busy place, a lot of weekenders with excited kiddos."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Traditional RV sites near Schnecksville are limited mainly to Mauch Chunk Lake Park, which offers electric hookups and water connections. Most AT camping sites are tent-only with hike-in access.
Surface considerations: Even at established campgrounds, be prepared for natural terrain. "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," advises Amber M., which applies equally to RV campers setting up outdoor living spaces.
Size restrictions: Large RVs face challenges at most area campgrounds. Mauch Chunk Lake Park is not big-rig friendly according to campground features, making it better suited for smaller Class B or C motorhomes and pop-up campers.
