The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Shickshinny sits at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Fall temperatures can drop into the 40s at night even when days reach the 70s. Campgrounds in this area feature diverse terrain from lakefront settings to densely wooded sites with varied privacy levels.
What to do
Waterfall hikes beyond Falls Trail: Ricketts Glen State Park offers additional waterfall viewing opportunities beyond the main Falls Trail. "Excellent views and the ability to explore and experience the waterfalls areas. Beach and lake activities are available as well," notes Gary O. at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Boulder Field exploration: Visit the unique geological formation at Hickory Run State Park, about an hour from Shickshinny. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," writes Mike M. about Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Lake activities: Multiple parks offer swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities. At Tobyhanna State Park, "The lake is very nice a little copper kind of like iced tea color but was very nice. They have a few hiking trails we didn't get to do, also have a horse shoe pit volleyball ball area and a little play area in the camping area," says Erik M.
Amusement park access: For families seeking a mix of outdoor and theme park experiences, Knoebels provides on-site camping with park access. "The campground itself is very clean except around the actual lake because of the geese nothing you can do about that... Showers are great and the camp store has plenty of Staples," explains Joshua W.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Tent campers appreciate more secluded sites available at certain campgrounds. At Red Rock Mountain Campground, "We camped at Red Rock as couples. We stayed in primitive tent sites which you had to hike into. They were very private. We enjoyed our stay," says Samantha M. This campground offers glamping near Shickshinny, Pennsylvania with a more rustic approach.
Off-grid disconnection: Some glamping locations near Shickshinny provide a true escape from digital connectivity. "I absolutely love camping here! If you want to be disconnected, literally because there is no cell service, then this is the place for you," writes Jen R. about Tuscarora State Park Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Many campers value the ability to access local features easily. "Peaceful little campground five minutes from Ricketts Glen State Park. Accommodating and friendly hosts, clean bath house and firewood for sale on site," notes Kait D. about Red Rock Mountain Campground.
Seasonal activities: Fall foliage viewing and winter recreation expand the camping season. "Hooting owls and fall foliage. This was a very peaceful night in the woods," shares Jen about Pioneer Campground.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. At Tobyhanna State Park, "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 our tent. Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car," warns Erik M.
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly in terms of privacy and spacing. "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. It was a very quiet weekend for us as our loop was not crowded," explains Shirley M. about Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Seasonal water issues: Some parks face water quality challenges during specific periods. At Ricketts Glen, James S. reports, "Arrived mid-afternoon, visitor center/Ranger office was closed, our reservation sheet was available in a mailbox near the door with instructions. No human contact. Park was not mowed, seemed a little rough & unattended."
Cell coverage limitations: Many campsites have limited or no mobile service. "Site was pretty nice, but there is very little privacy as the sites are so close to each other. Also no service (Verizon)," notes T K. about Ricketts Glen State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking glamping accommodations with children, prioritize sites near play areas. At Pioneer Campground, "There is a pool, soccer/baseball field and many family friendly activities. They also have a few trails for hiking. The staff is friendly and outgoing and enhance the camping experience," shares Casey R.
Swimming options: Beach areas provide kid-friendly water activities during summer months. "One is by the lake spillway, which is very picturesque with the cascading water. This area would be an ideal spot to start the hike. The hike should last 1.5 to 2 hours for the average person," explains J K. at Tobyhanna State Park.
Seasonal events: Halloween camping offers special activities at some locations. "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. In talking with the extremely friendly owners we found out about their Halloween activities and have been back several times," recommends Gayle B.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing and nature programs enhance family experiences. "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park," notes Shayna about Hickory Run.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Many sites require equipment to achieve proper RV positioning. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, "This was our first trip with our new to us jayco. We stayed in site 20. Easy to back in. Didn't need leveling blocks as our site was nice and level," shares Angela, contrasting with Angie G. who noted, "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."
Hook-up variations: Full-service sites are limited at state parks but more common at private campgrounds. "We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area," explains Shirley M. about Hickory Run.
Site spacing concerns: RVers should research site dimensions before booking. "We arrived here with high hopes and it went downhill from there. Our site was way to small even though we gave the length and width of our rig ahead of time. We were always looking for a place to park our tow because we had no extra space in front or back," warns Donna C. about Jim Thorpe Camping Resort.
Weekend congestion: Timing affects the camping experience significantly for larger rigs. "This campground was huge, and very crowded on the weekends. We arrived on a Thursday night, and pretty much had the whole place to ourselves," advises Jen V. about Knoebels Campground.
