Best Campgrounds near Stroudsburg, PA
The Pocono Mountains surrounding Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania feature diverse camping options within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and nearby state parks. Worthington State Forest Campground offers riverside tent and RV sites along the Delaware River, while private operations like Camp Taylor Campground provide more amenities including cabins and glamping options. Mountain Vista Campground and Delaware Water Gap/Pocono Mountain KOA cater to families seeking full hookups and recreational facilities. The region also includes unique boat-in primitive camping experiences on river islands like Namanock Island, where campers can enjoy complete seclusion with basic fire rings and privy toilets.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. As one camper noted at Worthington State Forest, "The tent camping area was right along the river, some sites with direct access. Our site was level, huge, and had a lantern hook." Reservations are essential during summer weekends and fall foliage season when the area attracts visitors from nearby metropolitan areas. Bear-resistant food storage is required at many sites, particularly in state forests where wildlife encounters are common. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with river valleys and remote areas having limited connectivity.
Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest visitor ratings, particularly those along the Delaware River. According to reviews, many campers appreciate the proximity to hiking trails, including access points to the Appalachian Trail which passes through the region. The Lakota Wolf Preserve near Camp Taylor provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities, with one visitor mentioning "we could hear the wolves howl from the campsite." Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing, though tent campers should prepare for cooler nights at higher elevations. Some private campgrounds like Mountain Vista have been noted as "not tent friendly" with one reviewer mentioning they "leave the street lamps on all night" and prioritize RV sites near facilities.
