Tent camping near Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania offers diverse terrain from elevations around 300 feet along the Delaware River to over 1,600 feet at nearby ridges. The region experiences moderate summers with average highs in the 80s and cool nights, while spring and fall camping requires additional layers with overnight temperatures often dropping into the 40s. River access campsites frequently feature rocky shorelines with shale outcroppings that require careful boat landing techniques.
What to do
Hiking Ghost Lake: At Jenny Jump State Forest, visitors can take advantage of several trails that lead to unique features not found elsewhere in the region. As one camper noted, there's a "fun walk to Ghost Lake" which makes for an interesting day excursion from the campground.
Paddle to secluded sites: The Delaware River offers multiple boat-in camping options that provide exceptional solitude. A camper at Namanock Island shared: "I was a bit nervous about collecting fire wood being the place was so clean but collected enough. Definitely would stop at one of the many places along the way to buy fire wood."
Visit nearby waterfalls: The Pennsylvania side of the Delaware River features several accessible waterfalls. A visitor to Walter's Boat In Campsites mentioned: "There are waterfalls on the Pennsylvania shore within a quick walking distance of your location that are very much worth the time it takes to walk the trail."
What campers like
River isolation: The boat-in campsites along the Delaware provide exceptional seclusion compared to drive-in options. One Namanock Island camper described: "Once night falls the absence of light sources beyond your camp remind you that you are truly alone in the wilderness."
Varied terrain for different camping styles: Camp Mohican Outdoor Center offers unique setup options. According to a visitor: "Tent sites are either on the ground have wooden platforms. Cabins come in various sizes."
Wildlife viewing: The river corridor supports diverse wildlife watching opportunities. One Namanock Island camper reported: "Saw tons of bald eagles flying near the site and while paddles birds playing and baby geese with their mommas!"
What you should know
Limited supplies nearby: Some campgrounds have minimal access to supplies. A Jenny Jump State Forest camper cautioned: "The only problem we encountered was that there wasn't a store close by for ice or other essentials, although the main office does sell firewood. They close at 4pm, though, so be sure to get there before then!"
Boat landing challenges: River access for camping can be challenging. At Bushkill Creek Boat In Campsite, a camper observed: "The path up to the campsite from the river gets a little steep, but not bad. One downside - all the water directly off the campsite is pretty rocky and shallow, so not great for swimming."
Noise considerations: Despite wilderness settings, some noise can carry from roads. At Jenny Jump State Forest, a camper noted: "This campground is a nice little hideaway not too far from the beaten path. You can hear some of the highway sounds from the campsites (especially the jake brake)."
Tips for camping with families
Group site options: For family outings, consider specific group camping areas. At Rivers Bend Group Campground, a visitor described: "Large field with multiple group campsites with bearboxes, fire pit and garbage cans at each site. Four outhouses centrally locates and a pump well that did not work."
Cabin alternatives: Families new to camping might appreciate shelter options. One Jenny Jump State Forest visitor explained: "This is the first time we decided to forgo tent camping and reserve a shelter at a state park. We had a much better experience than we were expecting! The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds(two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Water activities: Many campgrounds offer water recreation suitable for families. At Camp Mohican Outdoor Center, a visitor mentioned: "You can rent kayaks and canoes and swimming is allowed on Catfish Pond -- plenty of fish, snapping turtles, and other wildlife. If you're there in the summer, I'd recommend taking a kayak around the lake and filling it with wild blueberries."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Shawnee on Delaware offer few amenities for RVs. At Alosa Boat In Campsites, the primitive nature means no hookups or facilities, with a visitor noting: "Primitive site for multi day river trips. There's usually always a port-a-potty at the campsite."
Site selection considerations: Choose sites carefully as terrain varies significantly. A Jenny Jump State Forest camper advised: "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks."
Weather preparation: The elevation changes in the region create variable conditions. A visitor reported: "This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean."
