Glamping accommodations near Shavertown, Pennsylvania offer rustic luxury in the Pocono Mountains region, with elevations ranging from 1,300-2,200 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter bringing significant snowfall, making seasonal planning crucial. Tent platforms, canvas structures, and furnished yurts provide comfort while maintaining a connection to the surrounding woodland environment.
What to do
Hiking the Falls Trail: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, explore the renowned waterfall system. "This state park is just beautiful with a nice lake and beautiful trails. The campground is a bit crowded during peak season without much privacy. But this is the spot to be if you wanna hit up some trails and see some gorgeous views," notes Vika Z., highlighting the park's natural attractions beyond the glamping accommodations.
Boulder Field exploration: Just a 45-minute drive from glamping sites, Hickory Run's unique geological formation spans 16 acres. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," shares Mike M. This National Natural Landmark formed during the last ice age provides an otherworldly landscape for daytime excursions.
Winter activities: Unlike traditional camping, luxury glamping close to Shavertown remains accessible year-round. "We would love to come back in the winter when they have an ice rink with a warming house," mentions Michael from Lackawanna State Park Campground, highlighting off-season options not typically associated with camping.
What campers like
Lake access from accommodations: At Tobyhanna State Park Campground, waterfront glamping provides direct water access. "There are sites right on the lake. The bathrooms aren't the greatest but overall it's a beautiful place," says Stephan H. The lake offers swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating opportunities without leaving your site.
Privacy between accommodations: While glamping sites can be close together, strategic planning helps. "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," reports Shirley M. about her experience at Hickory Run, noting how site selection impacts the camping experience.
Diverse accommodation types: The area offers structures beyond standard glamping tents. "Campground has cabins and yurts, pull in sites for RV's and strictly walk in tent sites. There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool," explains David G., detailing the range of overnight options at Lackawanna State Park for those seeking different comfort levels.
What you should know
Bear activity in the area: Take proper food storage seriously when glamping near Shavertown. "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," warns Erik M. about his experience at Tobyhanna. Most glamping sites provide secure storage options.
Reservations required: Peak season (April-October) demands advance booking. "Book early as they sell out fast!" advises Joshua W. about Knoebels Campground, a recommendation applicable to most glamping sites in the region, especially those with premium accommodations.
Water considerations: Local water quality varies seasonally. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," shares Lee D. about Ricketts Glen, highlighting why bringing drinking water is advisable.
Tips for camping with families
Seasonal events: Plan around special weekends for enhanced experiences. "We started with a trip in the summer because of their candy bar hunt and heated swimming pool. We try to get the same campsite each year because it is wooded and spacious," recommends Gayle B. about Pioneer Campground, mentioning activities beyond standard glamping amenities.
Playground access: For families with young children, on-site play facilities matter. "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," notes Shirley M. about her Hickory Run stay, a consideration when choosing between remote or facility-rich glamping options.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate learning into your luxury outdoor experience. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," explains Janet R. about Lackawanna State Park, pointing out educational programs often overlooked by glampers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many glamping platforms require adjustment. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!" shares Angie G. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, a consideration that affects glamping structures and RVs alike.
Hookup variations: Electrical capacity differs significantly between sites. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," warns David about Lackawanna, important information for glampers requiring reliable electricity for heating or amenities.
Off-peak advantages: Consider shoulder seasons for better experiences. "We stayed Thursday through Sunday. It was chilly in the mornings and evenings and warm and sunny during the day. Perfect fall weather. We had a wonderfully relaxing time!" shares Angela about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, highlighting how timing affects comfort in semi-permanent accommodations.
