Tent camping options abound in the Lehigh Valley region near Stockertown, Pennsylvania. The area sits in the foothills of the Kittatinny Ridge at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,500 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler temperatures and less precipitation.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access multiple trail sections from Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground, which serves as a convenient starting point. "This is the closest primitive campsite to the Lehigh Gap trailhead on the Appalachian trail. The campsite sits right off of the trail and is fairly level with a large stone campfire ring," notes reviewer Asher K.
Wildlife observation: The ridge areas provide excellent bird and wildlife viewing opportunities. At AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap, you might encounter unexpected wildlife. "When I was up here I came across a flock of wild turkeys who thoroughly scared me when they flew off. I was already on edge since there are several signs warning of high bear activity," reports a camper about their experience in the area.
Water activities: Round Valley Recreation Area offers swimming, fishing, and boating options just across the New Jersey border. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," shares James R. about his camping experience.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many primitive sites offer significant space between campers. At Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite, you'll find "a very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group," according to Asher K. "This site appears to be well-used and has several established areas for sitting and setting up a fire."
Natural surroundings: The fern-covered forest floor creates a distinctive camping environment. "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," mentions a reviewer about the AT Ridge Campground. "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."
Scenic vistas: Ridgeline camping provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. About Jenny Jump State Forest, Jocelyn G. notes, "This park is high up on a mountain and affords lovely views. Well kept and clean. My only complaint is that the noise from the highway was quite loud at night."
What you should know
Water access limitations: Most backcountry sites require carrying in all water. "There is no water access at the site so make sure to fill up before coming up the mountain," advises a camper about the Lehigh Gap area. "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge."
Weather considerations: Ridge sites can experience significant wind and temperature variations. At Round Valley State Park Campground, one camper warns, "The reservoir can turn into the Bermuda Triangle at any moment-- be careful," referring to how quickly weather conditions can change on the water.
Access challenges: Many of the best tent camping near Stockertown requires significant hiking. "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive," notes Janine W. about Round Valley Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Start with partially-developed sites: For families new to camping, some locations offer a middle ground between primitive and fully-developed campgrounds. Kelsey K. shares about Wooded Campground: "There's open field and wooded options, and the hosts Mel and Jeff couldn't have been more accommodating. Mel brought firewood for the campfire and helped us load up on water."
Consider shelter options: For families wanting a more structured option, cabin-like shelters exist in the region. One camper describes Jenny Jump State Forest shelters: "The 'shelter' is what we would describe as a 'cabin'; four walls, a roof, locking door, locking windows, large picture frame front window, four beds (two bunks), a wood burning stove, and a porch."
Plan for hiking distances with kids: When bringing children, carefully evaluate trail distances and difficulty. About Jenny Jump State Forest, a reviewer notes: "This place was great, they allow dogs and had hiking trails with beautiful views you could enjoy right from your campground. It's also close to other local hikes like Mt. Tammany."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True primitive camping dominates the immediate Stockertown area, with established RV sites requiring a drive. A visitor to Jenny Jump State Forest reports: "The sites are hit or miss in terms of comfort, some have large, flat, clear spaces for multiple tents, some you have to wedge a tent to avoid rocks. Bathrooms were standard, compost toilets. The showers were free and generally quite hot."
Consider alternative access: For RVers wanting to experience more remote camping, some sites like Round Valley can be accessed by boat. "We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly," notes Stuart K.
