Tent camping in Southampton, Pennsylvania offers easy access to the Appalachian highlands with elevations ranging from 1,500-2,900 feet throughout nearby camping areas. Tent sites typically experience cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with evening temperatures 10-15 degrees lower than daytime highs. The region receives moderate rainfall even during summer months, making waterproof gear essential for overnight stays.
What to do
Explore historic tunnels: The Paw Paw Tunnel offers a unique hiking experience for tent campers. "The tunnel is very fun to travel through. Kids and adults alike enjoy the tunnel. Tunnel is always nice and cool refreshing during a long bike ride or hike on a hot day," explains Jordan B. from Paw Paw Tunnel Campground.
Stream fishing: Many tent sites provide direct stream access for fishing. At Big Run State Park Campground, one visitor notes the "Stream was incredible and lively with trout and crayfish," making it ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
Winter camping: Unlike many seasonal options, several tent sites remain open year-round. "The Portapotties were in bad shape, but it was winter so hopefully they get serviced more often in season," reports Robin from Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, highlighting the availability of off-season camping.
What campers like
Stream sounds: Many campers value natural water features at tent sites. One Big Run State Park visitor wrote, "beautiful campsite and loved the sound of the river as white noise!" Water features provide both recreational opportunities and ambient sound.
Site privacy: Tent campers consistently mention spacing between sites as a top consideration. "Tons of space between sites," notes Nathan S. about Big Run State Park Campground, contrasting with more crowded options in the region.
Natural cooling: Creek and river proximity provides natural temperature regulation. At Abrams Creek Campground, the "Scenic and secluded" setting along the creek creates natural air conditioning during hot summer days.
What you should know
Toilet facilities vary: Many primitive tent sites have minimal bathroom facilities. "Pit toilets were pretty clean," reports a Big Run State Park camper, while at Stoney Creek Campground, "Hot showers and bathrooms are dedicated to each site and guests are given a key/code."
Water access points: Not all tent campgrounds provide drinking water. "Water and dump station is 10 minutes up the road at New Germany State Park," notes Nathan S. about Big Run State Park Campground.
Train noise considerations: Several tent camping areas in the Southampton region experience railway noise. "There are quite a few trains thru town," mentions Mark G. from Maple Festival Park, while another camper simply states "Train close by" about Cacapon Junction.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing precautions: Family tent campers should prepare for wildlife encounters. "Keep an eye out for lots of the more dangerous varieties of wildlife native to the area big cats, snakes galore, bear, coyotes etc but beautiful views if you're ready for an adventure," advises Natasha S. from Lost Land Run.
Kid-friendly water features: Several tent sites offer shallow water access appropriate for supervised children. At Big Run State Park, Andy C. reports, "The kids loved playing in the water. Very quiet and relaxing!"
Pack extra lighting: Many tent sites have minimal lighting. As Jordan B. recommends for Paw Paw Tunnel, "Make sure to bring some flashlights for inside the tunnel as it is a mile long and gets very dark!"
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Some tent camping areas can accommodate small trailers. "Used lot 73 for a 26ft hybrid camper. Fit perfectly! It was flat, large, clean and right by the creek," shares Andy C. about Big Run State Park Campground.
Limited hookups: Most tent-oriented sites lack RV amenities. At Abrams Creek Campground, cabins provide "electric service, a microwave, electric heater, refrigerator and lights" according to Kevin C., but traditional RV hookups are unavailable.
Alternative accommodations: When weather becomes challenging, some tent camping areas offer simple cabins. At Abrams Creek, a visitor "rented a cabin for two nights to hide from bad weather," providing a compromise between tent camping and full RV facilities.
