Pine Grove sits in the eastern Pennsylvania woodlands with tent camping options scattered within a 45-mile radius. The region features numerous creek and lakeside tent sites between 400-800 feet elevation, with summer temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F. Most tent sites in this area remain open from April through October, though availability varies by location.
What to do
Creek wading access: Shambala at Mystic Hollow provides direct creek access from campsites, allowing for cooling off during hot days. As one camper notes, "Shambala at Mystic Hollow offers great creekside campsites for anyone looking to pitch a tent and enjoy some time by the water."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Several tent sites near Mauch Chunk Lake Park offer water recreation options. A regular visitor shared, "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."
Rafting excursions: White water rafting on the Lehigh River runs approximately 10 minutes from some camping areas. One camper reported, "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing. The campground is definitely great for Girl Scout or school groups."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures near water: Creek-adjacent tent sites at Mill Creek Camping Area naturally regulate heat during summer months. One visitor mentioned appreciating "the sound of water flowing at night," noting that positioning "down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience."
Wooded privacy: Many tent sites feature tree coverage that creates natural boundaries between campsites. At Hibernia County Park, campers appreciate that "camp sites are under trees" providing natural shade and separation.
Natural padding: Pine needle ground cover at some sites creates comfortable tent foundations. A camper at the AT Ridge Campground described, "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most tent campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter availability. Hibernia County Park specifically operates "May to October."
Parking limitations: Many of the best tent camping near Pine Grove involves walk-in access only. At AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap, sites are "less than a mile from the parking at Blue Mountain Rd. (Official A.T. parking)."
Limited facilities: Primitive sites require campers to bring water and sanitation supplies. The AT Ridge sites have no drinking water or toilet facilities, meaning campers need self-contained water and waste management plans.
Trail traffic: Some camping areas experience hiker traffic despite being designated camping zones. One camper noted, "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Lower Allen Community Park offers accessible sites ideal for first-time campers. One visitor described it as "Cute site in a local township park that not many people know about. There actually three total. You just need to call the township to reserve."
Weekday timing: Lake-adjacent sites become noticeably quieter midweek. A regular camper at Mauch Chunk Lake noted, "If you go during the week, it's quite calm."
Site selection strategy: For tent camping with children, prioritize sites with proximity to facilities. At Hibernia County Park, a family reported, "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
Wildlife awareness: Inform children about local wildlife expectations. A camper reported "Lots of creepy crawlers" at Mill Creek, suggesting families prepare children for normal woodland insect encounters.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent camping areas near Pine Grove limit RV access to smaller units under 28 feet. One RV camper at Hibernia County Park noted that while at first glance sites don't appear suitable, "there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper."
Leveling preparations: Bring adequate leveling equipment as many sites have natural slope. An experienced RVer mentioned, "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Water planning: No hookups mean arriving with full tanks. One camper advised, "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank."
