RV camping near Shavertown, Pennsylvania offers travelers access to the northeastern Pennsylvania mountains and forests with sites suitable for various motorhome sizes. Located in Luzerne County at approximately 1,200 feet elevation, the region experiences warm summers and cold winters with significant snowfall. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 22 waterfalls await visitors at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground. "We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked," notes Lee D. The falls trail requires sturdy footwear and moderate fitness.
Boulder field exploration: Drive the stone road through the woods at Hickory Run State Park Campground to see the unique geological formation. "The boulder field was the highlight of our camping trip," writes Shayna. The boulder field includes rocks of various sizes across a flat expanse and requires careful footing.
Lake activities: Lake Jean at Ricketts Glen offers boating and recreation opportunities. "Lake Jean is also right there for boating and recreation," notes Meag F. Most lakes in the region offer kayak and canoe rentals during summer months for $15-30 per hour.
What campers like
Privacy options: Campers appreciate sites with natural spacing at Moyers Grove Campground. "The sites were a nice size and were well shaded. The campground was quiet and peaceful. We saw deer daily," writes Becca U. Wildlife sightings occur frequently throughout the camping season.
Seasonal nature viewing: Fall colors make the region especially popular. "We came in at end of season, so pretty much everything seems closed. But, it's a beautiful campground and the part of PA is great too," notes Kasey M. about Thousand Trails Scotrun. October typically offers peak foliage.
Modern bath facilities: At Frances Slocum State Park, updated facilities receive positive reviews. "Cleanest campground I have been to. Great in between spot to worlds end state park and rickets glen," notes Jennifer O. Shower availability varies significantly between campgrounds, with state parks offering more limited facilities.
What you should know
Limited water access: At some campgrounds, water access points may be far from sites. "Make sure you have a LONG water hose. We actually had to buy a 50 foot hose in the camp store to accommodate the distance to the spigot," warns a Moyers Grove camper.
Steep entrance grades: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. At Stonybrook RV Resort, one visitor noted: "The entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn't easy in a 45' motorhome towing a Jeep."
Variable cell service: Coverage depends on location and carrier. At Timothy Lake South, "Cell service is ok. Verizon is 25 down 10 up. Tmobile is unusable," reports Don C. AT&T coverage is particularly spotty throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment. At Clayton Park RV Escape, "Excellent family quiet area. Pool boats, hike, relax," notes David R. Most family-oriented campgrounds include playground equipment.
Bear precautions: Wildlife safety measures are essential. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," reports Jennifer D. about Hickory Run. All food items should be stored in vehicles or campers when not in use.
Swimming options: Not all water is suitable for swimming. At Frances Slocum, "There is a weird bacteria or algae currently growing in the lake, it's completely visible. There are advisories around about it too," cautions Jackie F. Check with rangers about current water conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV sites vary considerably in size and access. "The campground and bathrooms were very clean. Lots of hiking trails - although they need better markings," writes Cynthia P. about Frances Slocum State Park, noting the adequate spacing between sites.
Seasonal campground differences: Year-round options are limited. Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort operates throughout winter, while many other campgrounds close from late October to April. "We stayed here during the winter January-February no activities going on. It does offer beautiful views especially covered in snow," notes Jamie S. about Stonybrook RV Resort.
Hookup variations: Many RV parks offer differing levels of service. "We paid $150 per night total for a FHU 50 Amp Premium Back-in site," reports a visitor at Stonybrook RV Resort, highlighting the higher-end options available at private parks compared to more limited hookups at state facilities.
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