Tent camping opportunities around Slatington, Pennsylvania extend beyond established park facilities into backcountry areas along the Blue Mountain ridge. The region sits within the northern edge of the Pennsylvania Highlands, where the Lehigh River cuts through the mountain creating Lehigh Gap. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during the day while dropping to 50-60°F at night. Winter camping requires proper cold-weather gear as temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
What to do
Paddleboarding on Mauch Chunk Lake: Launch directly from lakefront sites at Mauch Chunk Lake Park where the water conditions are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes Lisa S.
Hiking the AT ridgelines: Backpack to AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap for panoramic valley views. "You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky. Previous campers have also been kind enough to build up a sizable stone fire ring and construct a stone chair for enjoying the fire and view," reports Asher K.
Biking the D&L Trail: Camp along the Lehigh River at Riverview Park Campground for direct access to the 165-mile D&L Trail built on an old railroad bed. "The park itself is located along the D&L biking trail that is on the bed of an old railroad," explains one visitor, making it convenient for cyclists planning multi-day rides.
What campers like
Protected forest sites: Seek shelter during inclement weather at the pine forest sites near AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap. "The pine trees provide a nice cover to make this a well-protected site in case of bad weather. Although it doesn't have the views of the other parts of the trail it makes up for it in coziness," according to an experienced hiker.
Fern-filled landscapes: Experience unique natural settings at primitive sites on the ridgeline. "They are surrounded by a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail. Sitting up on the mountain in this area is a very peaceful experience as you can hear the wind blowing through the trees while watching the ferns sway back and forth," describes a camper about the AT Ridge Campground.
Group camping accommodations: Find spacious areas for multiple tents at the large primitive sites. "A very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group. This site appears to be well-used and has several established areas for sitting and setting up a fire," notes one reviewer about Lehigh Gap primitive campsites.
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Most backcountry sites require carrying water or knowing limited source locations. "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge," warns a camper at the overlook sites, while another notes the Outerbridge shelter has "a spring nearby for filling up water."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking or charge fees for walk-ups. "Just make sure if you are going to stay here that you reserve a site in advance since they will charge you an additional $10 if you show up without planning," advises a visitor to Riverview Park.
Weather considerations: The exposed ridgeline sites can be windy but offer better views, while forest sites provide better protection. "If the weather is good I recommend planning to stay up on top of the mountain at one of the more scenic campsites," suggests a reviewer of George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter.
Tips for camping with families
Choose weekday visits: Family camping at popular established campgrounds can be noisy on weekends. "Our site was for the most part clean... It's a busy place, a lot of weekenders with excited kiddos. Not my cup of tea for a weekend getaway but great for kids and campers who want to hang out with their neighbors," explains one Mauch Chunk Lake visitor.
Extra sleeping pads: Bring additional padding for tent camping at established sites with uneven ground. "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters," advises a camper about the terrain at local campgrounds.
First-time family options: Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides an ideal setting for inexperienced campers. "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby," shares Mackenzie B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Mauch Chunk: Look for lakeside spots with adequate clearance for larger vehicles. "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large. Plenty of space away from neighbors," reports a visitor to the area.
Activities beyond the campground: Use established campgrounds as a base for exploring nearby attractions. "There's much to explore in the town Jim Thorpe and beautiful hiking close by," recommends Katie S., while another visitor mentions, "You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars."
