R
Russell A.
Scout
Scout100 Mile View Camping
What a great place. So unique! Love the view, and a great experience! There are no hook ups, so be prepared but if you are looking for the dispersed camping experience you have found it. What a gem!
Camping near Scranton, PA
22 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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State parks and private campgrounds within an hour of Scranton, Pennsylvania provide a range of camping experiences from lakeside sites to forested retreats. Lackawanna State Park Campground, located just 10 miles north of the city in North Abington Township, offers tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with electric hookups and lake access. Frances Slocum State Park Campground, situated southwest of Scranton near Wyoming, provides similar amenities with restrictions on alcohol consumption. The region extends into the Pocono Mountains to the east, where Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park feature additional camping options. Private facilities like Keen Lake Resort Campground in Waymart and Highland Campgrounds in Dalton supplement the state park system with year-round and seasonal availability.
Most campgrounds in the Scranton area operate from mid-April through mid-October, with limited winter camping options. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for summer weekends and holidays. As one camper noted, "We were motorcycle camping and came in on a holiday weekend without a reservation, but we were given a terrific tent site. The park was very neat and well manicured." Site conditions can vary with weather, particularly in spring when rain can create muddy conditions. Cell service is spotty in many locations, particularly in the more remote state parks. Pennsylvania state parks enforce strict quiet hours (typically 9pm to 8am) and many prohibit alcohol consumption, with rangers actively patrolling campgrounds to enforce these rules.
Water features dominate the camping landscape around Scranton, with lakes and streams providing recreational opportunities. Campers frequently mention the quality of bathhouses in Pennsylvania state parks, though facilities vary by location. Site spacing can be an issue at some campgrounds, with one visitor to Tobyhanna State Park noting, "The sites were too close together and sites along the water would be better if they were tucked back from the road." Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities, particularly in the Poconos region east of Scranton. Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting deer, various birds, and even bears in some areas. Park rangers typically advise proper food storage to prevent wildlife encounters, with some campgrounds providing bear-proof containers or centralized dumpsters away from camping areas.
Best Campgrounds near Scranton (212)
1. Lackawanna State Park Campground
"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."
"Convenient to Scranton. The bathhouse was adequate and clean. Site was paved but not really level and layout was odd, fire ring and table were on drivers side."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $90 / night
2. Frances Slocum State Park Campground
"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."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $48 / night
3. Keen Lake Resort Campground
"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."
4. Hickory Run State Park Campground
"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. "
65 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $72 / night
5. Tobyhanna State Park Campground
"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!"
4 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $43 / night
6. Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park
"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."
3 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $20 - $44 / night
7. Highland Campgrounds
"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"
Check Availabilityfrom $30 - $100 / night
8. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground
"The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"
"Many of the sites looked close to the road and not very private but we were in site 63 which was pretty private(though we were lucky neighboring site 62 was empty)."
9 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $15 - $92 / night
9. Clayton Park RV Escape
10. Cozy Creek Family Campground
"Campground is based around kids, there’s a lot for them to do!"
Check Availabilityfrom $17 / night
Drive Time
- 54 min from Binghamton, NY
- 1 hr 12 min from Allentown, PA
- 1 hr 33 min from Williamsport, PA
- 1 hr 39 min from Reading, PA
Recent Camping Photos near Scranton, PA
506 Photos of 212 Scranton Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Lackawanna State Park Campground
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Frances Slocum State Park Campground
Cozy Creek Family Campgroundk
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Tentrr Signature Site - Lakeview Glampsite "Lakeside Lounge" (G2)
Tobyhanna State Park CampgroundS
Keen Lake Resort Campground
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Moon Lake Recreation Area Campground — Pinchot State ForestJ
Hemlock Campground & Cottages
Recent Reviews near Scranton, PA
985 Reviews of 212 Scranton Campgrounds
Nancy W.
LegendHickory Run State Park Campground
Peaceful State Park Camping in the Fall
This is a large campground with a wide array of campsites so be careful attention when you book online, especially if you have a pet because some sites are not pet-friendly. Some are 50-amp full hook-up and some are primitive with no hook-ups.
There is a nice nature center with interesting interpretive exhibits and lots of informational brochures including ones about the hiking trails, bears, scat and tracks of local animals, and fishing. Our site was at the edge of the campground and backed up to Route 534 which resulted in a bit of road noise at our site. Other than the road noise the campground was pretty quiet and was not very crowded when we camped there in October.
Not all sites are level and we happened to book one that was not and we had to live with a slant for our stay. The roads in the park are gravel/dirt and since it rained the day we arrived the roads were a muddy mess which made the roads slippery and there were lots of potholes. Unfortunately, some campers were disrespectful and left bags of trash in the fire pit and scattered around their site which was totally unnecessary because there were dumpsters plenty of dumpsters in the campground. Since we camped at Hickory Run late in the season, there were no camp hosts and the trash never got picked up.
The campground is open from mid-April to mid-December; however, the shower facilities and dump station are not available after the third week of October so plan accordingly. We really like the hiking trails which are of varying degrees of difficulty and lengths. The Hawk Falls is a nice easy walk (1.4 miles round-trip) to a waterfall but is extremely popular so don’t think you will be admiring the falls alone. The parking lot at this trail head fills up fast so you better get there early if you want to get a spot.
You can enter the park from two different directions. If you have a big-rig, it is best to approach from the east side. We made the mistake of coming in from the west side as we dropped down from I-80 and came down 534 and the road was really windy with no shoulder. Luckily, there was very little traffic so we could go 10 mph and safely navigate the roads.
Be aware alcohol is not allowed in PA state parks. This park does allow hunting in certain sections of the park. The no-hunting areas are clearly marked with white no hunting signs on trees and you can also pick up a brochure from the office that designates hunting and no-hunting sections.
Tony F.
Guide100 Mile View Camping
The best views
This is a hidden gem, as close to dispersed camping you can get with dirt, gravel roads, large stone fire pits, a amazing views with the added benefit of a five gallon jug of non potable water and very clean port-a-potties. The owner regularly patrols the site and makes sure everything is okay.
SkywaystoHighways.com Y.LegendRicketts Glen State Park Campground
Beautiful Falls!
What a great campground! We stayed here on a recommendation from a friend after the Overland Expo. Great hiking trails and the falls were absolutely breathtaking. Truly enjoyed our stay and plan to return!
- WWill W.Guide
Lackawanna State Park Campground
Car camping
Stayed October 14 without reservations because website showed lots of availability. Office was closed (M-F 8-4) so submitted honor system envelope with cash and stayed at Site 041 on Carpenter loop. Shower building was a short walk and was spacious enough. Water temp didn’t quite reach hot but was warm enough.
Electric kept on tripping breaker.
Roger V.
TravelerBake Oven Knob
solid parking place for vans and RVs. road is dirt gravel but not terrible. nice hike nearby
- jjeanne A.Guide
Council Cup Campground
Better than nothing
Small campground with rude owner. Everything I asked about was putting her out. It was cheap though at $36 for water and electric with a military discount.
Daniel C.ScoutHillside Campgrounds
Stay away... Unless you like 70 y/o men acting like high schoolers
This clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
Kathy L.
RangerHickory Run State Park Campground
Beautiful forest
Gorgeous forested area in the Poconos. We stayed on the Rattlesnake Loop which was lovely. Sites not super private but most nestled in trees. The only bummer was that that Campground Loop didn’t have any direct links to the trail network and was far from it. The other Campground Loop was closer to trails and office. Would return!
Guide to Scranton
Campgrounds within an hour of Scranton, Pennsylvania range in elevation from around 900 feet at Lackawanna State Park to over 1,800 feet in the Pocono Mountains. Weather conditions vary significantly by season with summer highs averaging 82°F and winter lows dropping to 19°F. Many campgrounds feature waterfront sites with varying terrain conditions from rocky soil at Promised Land State Park to softer grounds at campgrounds along valley streams.
What to do
Kayaking lake trails: At Pickerel Point Campground in Promised Land State Park, the water access points make it ideal for paddling. "Almost every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus," notes a visitor. The lake is crystal clear with multiple launch points.
Waterfall hiking: The falls at Ricketts Glen State Park provide unique hiking opportunities on well-maintained but challenging trails. "The hike is definitely not for the easily winded people, or anyone with bad knees, the hike down was pretty steep at some points but very well maintained," explains one hiker. The park features 22 named waterfalls accessible via a moderate four-mile hike.
Fishing local waters: Many campgrounds have dedicated fishing areas with specific regulations. According to a visitor at Tobyhanna State Park, "The kids caught multiple sunnies and even a small perch." Local waters contain trout, bass, and panfish with best catch rates in spring and fall.
What campers like
Lake swimming: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers both lake and pool swimming options. "The kids really loved having a pool to swim in, in addition to the lake," reports one camper. The swimming areas are separated from boat traffic with designated beach zones.
Trail networks: Local parks feature interconnected trail systems of varying difficulty. At Hickory Run State Park, "There are at least 44 miles of trails. They are rated from easy to difficult." The Boulder Field trail stands out as a unique geological feature accessible via hiking or driving.
Wildlife viewing: Campers regularly report wildlife sightings throughout the region. One visitor mentioned, "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings." Parks post safety guidelines regarding proper food storage and trash disposal to minimize wildlife encounters.
What you should know
Rustic facilities: Many campgrounds have limited amenities. A camper at Frances Slocum State Park noted, "Showers are button showers and are freezing come prepared." Some sites have pit toilets rather than flush toilets.
Site spacing concerns: Review site maps before booking. At Tobyhanna State Park, a camper observed, "My family thought the sites were too close together and that the sites along the water would be better if they were tucked back from the road and closer to the water."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in spring and early summer. A visitor at Cozy Creek Family Campground reported, "The routes through the campground were riddled with potholes, and the route through the tent sites was a giant puddle." Pack waterproof footwear and tent groundsheets regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Frances Slocum State Park offers multiple recreation options. "The park has great hiking spots, a local pool, and a lake that you can rent boats or kayak on," shares one family. Weekly activity schedules are posted at ranger stations.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Highland Campgrounds provides "a playground that gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin," according to a visitor.
Beach facilities: When choosing waterfront camping, check beach amenities. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless," notes a camper at Promised Land State Park. Some swimming areas have lifeguards during peak summer months while others are swim-at-your-own-risk.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Test electrical connections upon arrival. At Lackawanna State Park, a camper reported, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Site selection: Many RV sites have specific limitations. At Clayton Park RV Escape, RVers recommend requesting concrete patio sites for easier leveling. Sites with water and electric-only are typically more spacious than full hookup options.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds with full hookups operate from mid-April through mid-October. A few, like Cozy Creek Family Campground, offer year-round options but with limited winter services. Call ahead to confirm facilities available during shoulder seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds near Scranton, PA?
What are the best campgrounds near Scranton, PA?
Lackawanna State Park Campground offers a convenient location near Scranton with well-maintained grounds and paved sites. The park features a beautiful lake and clean facilities, making it a top choice for local camping. For those seeking a more unique experience, Salt Springs State Park Campground provides a different atmosphere with flat, grassy sites maintained by the Friends of Salt Springs group. The park offers hiking trails, water access, and a more natural setting while still being accessible from the Scranton area.
Are there any cabin camping options around Scranton?
Are there any cabin camping options around Scranton?
Mount Pocono Campground in the Poconos offers cabin accommodations about an hour from Scranton. This family-friendly destination features extensive amenities including swimming pools and an on-site store, making it perfect for those seeking a comfortable cabin experience. Keen Lake Resort Campground near Waymart also provides cabin options with waterfront access, approximately 20 miles from Scranton. For those willing to travel a bit further, several state parks in the wider region offer rustic cabin rentals that provide a balance of comfort and outdoor immersion.
What camping amenities can I expect at Scranton area campgrounds?
What camping amenities can I expect at Scranton area campgrounds?
Cozy Creek Family Campground offers pull-through sites and a beautiful creek for swimming, ideal for RVers and families with pets. The campground provides concrete pads at select sites for added convenience. For a more active experience, Kittatinny Campground features riverside camping with clean facilities and a more relaxed atmosphere that balances freedom with appropriate management. Most campgrounds in the region typically offer basic amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, and access to toilets, while private campgrounds tend to provide additional facilities such as showers, electrical hookups, and on-site stores.
When is the best season for camping in the Scranton region?
When is the best season for camping in the Scranton region?
Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the most pleasant camping conditions in the Scranton region. Summer provides warm temperatures ideal for enjoying water activities at parks like Worlds End State Park Campground, which features beautiful trails with spectacular views and creek access. Fall brings stunning foliage, particularly at Hickory Run State Park Campground near White Haven. While some campgrounds operate year-round, many state park facilities close or reduce services during winter months. Spring camping can be delightful but prepare for potential mud and variable weather conditions.
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