The Pocono Mountain region around Starlight, Pennsylvania sits at elevations ranging from 1,200-1,500 feet, offering a temperate camping climate with summer highs averaging 75-80°F. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, with significant snowfall from December through March. The area features diverse waterways including lakes, rivers, and streams suitable for various water activities regardless of camping style.
What to do
Lake activities: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities with kayaks and canoes. A visitor noted, "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area on the lake." The 90-acre spring-fed lake provides swimming areas and fishing opportunities for all skill levels.
Hiking trails: Oquaga Creek State Park Campground features well-marked trails through forests and around Arctic Lake. A camper shared, "There are plenty of well-marked trails to hike. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked." The park offers varied terrain suitable for day hikes of different difficulties.
Fishing spots: The Upper Delaware River region provides excellent fishing opportunities. At Russell Brook Campsites, anglers enjoy direct water access: "Our site was massive (39) and had direct access to Russell Brook. Couldn't keep my son out of the water." These sites offer productive fishing for trout and other native species.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Honesdale - Poconos KOA maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms and showers. A camper reported, "The bathrooms and showers, every time we went in, were spotless. The staff was incredible. So friendly and helpful." Most glamping sites near Starlight maintain similar standards.
Privacy options: Despite some campgrounds having closer sites, many offer secluded alternatives. At Oquaga Creek State Park, visitors appreciate the quieter atmosphere: "Oquaga is a great campground if you want to get off-the-grid for a little while." The park's layout provides buffer zones between many sites.
Family activities: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers diverse recreation options beyond standard camping. A visitor noted, "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails." The park schedules regular educational programs throughout summer.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most glamping sites and campgrounds near Starlight operate seasonally. Russell Brook Campsites runs from May through October, with most activities available June through September. A camper commented, "Clean and well-maintained - even the restrooms. Every site is well-equipped with its own water, electricity, fire pit, and picnic table."
Site selection matters: When booking at Keen Lake Resort Campground, choose lakefront sites when possible. A camper advised, "Get a site on the lake. You won't have a ton of privacy but you'll have space for your stuff." Sites on the activity side of the lake provide easier access to amenities.
Reservation timing: During peak summer months (June-August), reservations should be made 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend stays. Most glamping options require deposits and have minimum stay requirements during high season.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Russell Brook Campsites provides family-friendly water access: "Loved this place! It's clean and well-maintained. The best part is the waterfront sites. We were right next to a small brook, and falling asleep to the sound of the water behind our tent was amazing."
Playgrounds and recreation: Valley View Farm and Campground offers farm-based activities suitable for children. A visitor shared, "Great spots to setup your own tent as well as cabins and trailers. My daughter and I highly recommend this campground to anyone who loves the forest and the peace and tranquility that comes along with it."
Kid-friendly hiking: Choose shorter loop trails under 2 miles for younger children. Oquaga Creek State Park offers family-appropriate options: "Nice park with area loops that all have a central bath house. Cute cabins sprinkled all around the park. Lake with a nice beach and swimming area."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Keen Lake Resort Campground, RV sites have good spacing but location matters. A camper advised, "The RV sites are spaced out nicely. We were on the far side of the lake which is not really within walking distance of the beach, pool and store. We knew this going in and were totally OK with it."
Hookup quality: Check for full hookup availability when booking. At Honesdale-Poconos KOA, sites include quality amenities: "Love the KOA patio sites, worth the few extra dollars. Quiet and peaceful mid week."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. When booking, confirm road conditions and site dimensions for your specific vehicle size.
