Promised Land State Park offers multiple camping areas across two lakes in the Pocono Mountains at an elevation of around 1,800 feet. Winter camping is available with electric sites but no water hookups during cold months. The surrounding forests create a moderate temperature environment that stays cooler than lower-elevation areas, particularly beneficial during summer months when temperatures typically remain 5-10 degrees below nearby valleys.
What to Do
Kayaking on Lower Lake: Launch directly from lakeside sites at Pickerel Point Campground, where campers appreciate the easy water access. "I can launch my kayak right from there!" notes Nancy L., who calls it her "favorite close to home spot."
Hiking Conservation Island: The island trail offers a quick nature experience with educational signs. "The Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked," reports Alaina Z., who stayed at Pickerel Point but recommends the trail for all park visitors.
Winter activities: The park remains open year-round with cold-weather recreation opportunities. "Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," explains Mara S., who visited Pickerel Point during winter months.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Tobyhanna State Park receives high marks for maintenance. "Bathrooms are large and well kept. The lake is nearby and doesn't get crowded. There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake," explains Marlaina M., highlighting the park's organization.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around campsites provide opportunities to spot native animals. "We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite," mentions Marlaina M. from her Tobyhanna stay. For those camping at Promised Land State Park's The Pines Campground, wildlife encounters can be more direct. "There were reports of young orphaned bear cubs in the campsite area and we were asked to stow our food safely in a vehicle," reports Mary M.
Lakefront locations: Sites with water views are particularly valued. "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper," shares Kelly F. about Pickerel Point, while Carolyn M. adds, "Mine overlooked the water and had a gorgeous sunset. There was a beach nearby that was an excellent place to gaze at the stars."
What You Should Know
Bear activity: The Pocono region has significant black bear populations. "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. Camp sites were nice most had plenty of trees for privacy but were still kind of close," advises Erik M. from his experience at Tobyhanna, where a bear approached his site during setup.
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the region. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," notes Mara S. about winter camping at Pickerel Point, a common issue across multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Skytop.
Site layouts vary: Lower Lake Campground's Rhododendron Area has mixed reviews regarding site spacing. "Depending on your site choice, there are campsites that are WAY too close together for my preference, then some that were adequately spaced and foliage offered some privacy," explains Nick P.
Tips for Camping with Families
Educational programs: Promised Land State Park's Lower Lake Campground offers kids' activities. "We were impressed that they got a bag full of stuff when we checked in. It was also a pleasant surprise that they offered environmental education programs," shares Greg S., who attended a fish program and bear presentation with his children.
Beach options: Several camping areas provide swimming access. "We stayed in the Pines and it was fantastic. We were very close to the beach and bathrooms," reports Jess H., noting the convenient location for families.
Bike-friendly roads: Paved paths make cycling accessible for children. "Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..." comments Paula R. about Pickerel Point, though she notes that some activities were limited during COVID restrictions.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: Different campground areas offer varying RV experiences. "If you are in a camper or RV, I think that the Beechwood loop looked best. We stayed in the northwoods loop, which was ok but more conducive to tent camping," advises Greg S., who found some loops better suited for recreational vehicles than others.
Water access points: At Mount Pocono Campground, amenities cater to longer stays. "The sites were spacious. The campground was very quiet, and all of the facilities were very clean and well maintained," reports Dave B., noting the comfortable setup for RVers.
Dump station timing: Plan accordingly for departure. "Big line at dump station when we were leaving," warns Greg S. about Lower Lake Campground, suggesting RVers should allow extra time at checkout or plan to use facilities earlier to avoid delays.
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