Camping options near Summit Hill, Pennsylvania sit within the Pocono Mountains region at elevations ranging from 1,500-2,000 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter dropping to 20-30°F. Many campgrounds remain open year-round with electric sites available during colder months, though water systems are typically winterized from November through March.
What to do
Kayaking at Pickerel Point: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Pickerel Point Campground for easy water access. "I had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail," notes Kelly F., who visited in summer.
Fishing opportunities: Cast for northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, and panfish at multiple lakes. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to one visitor to French Creek State Park.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies offer excellent night viewing conditions. "The beach nearby was an excellent place to gaze at the stars. Loved it!" says Carolyn M. about her experience at Pickerel Point.
Winter activities: Ice fishing is permitted at several lakes when conditions allow. "The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," notes Mara S. about winter activities at Promised Land State Park.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Mountain View Campground offers spacious wooded camping spots with privacy. "The campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas," explains Mario M., highlighting the natural setting.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," says Jen R. about her experience at French Creek.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse animal populations. "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" Christina H. recounts from her stay at Mountain View Campground.
Full hookup options: Several parks offer complete RV services. "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna," reports Debbie W. from her stay at Pickerel Point.
What you should know
Pet policies vary: Only specific loops or campgrounds allow dogs. "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground. Check requirements when booking.
Alcohol restrictions: State parks typically prohibit alcohol. "The only drawback is no alcohol allowed, but most State Parks are like that I think," explains Nancy L. about Pickerel Point.
Off-season considerations: Some facilities close during colder months. "Went camping in late October, when a lot of the other parks are closed. Only one section of their camping was still open but the bathrooms and showers had been winterized," reports Tiffany K. from Beechwood Area.
Firewood regulations: External firewood may be restricted. "They do not allow you to gather your own firewood, but they do sell it in their camp store," notes Christina H. about local policies.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Tuscarora State Park Campground offers family-friendly recreation areas. "There is a playground for kids to play in that is well maintained," mentions Tiffany K., highlighting amenities for children.
Swimming areas: Several parks maintain designated swimming beaches. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless," according to Debbie W.'s experience at Pickerel Point.
Educational programs: Look for ranger-led activities. "I was pleasantly surprised they have programs for kids. Can never go wrong here," notes John R. about his family's stay at Pickerel Point.
Family-sized accommodations: Various parks offer cabins for those without camping equipment. "The cabins and yurts have electricity and running water. They are great if you want the outdoor experience while getting the option of a bed," explains Tiffany K. about Tuscarora's options.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Choose carefully for easier setup. "The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," shares Paige H. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Water access locations: Not all sites have direct hookups. "There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," notes Craig F. about his experience at Starlite.
Low-hanging branches: Watch for obstacles on campground roads. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," advises Douglas P. based on his stay at Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Paved parking pads: Some sites feature prepared surfaces. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," reports Jen R., noting this helpful feature at French Creek State Park.
Ranger
