The Pocono Mountain region surrounding Tafton, Pennsylvania sits at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,800 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with crisp fall temperatures dropping into the 40s overnight even during September. The Delaware River forms the eastern boundary of the camping region, offering water recreation opportunities that complement the area's densely wooded campgrounds. Cellular reception varies dramatically across the terrain due to the mountainous topography.
What to do
Delaware River access: At Soaring Eagle Campground and the Inn at Kellam's Bridge, campers can enjoy direct river activities. "Great river based location (Delaware River)... sites are huge, plenty of room for 2+ family campers," notes Hans M. The campground provides canoe, kayak and tube rentals for river exploration.
Mountain biking adventures: Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort offers unique biking opportunities. "Ride the ski lifts up to the top of the mountain then you get to bike down it, they have rental bikes available or bring your own," explains Lois. The resort also features zip lining and tree-based adventure courses during warmer months.
Hiking trails: Promised Land State Park's Lower Lake Campground provides access to multiple trail systems. "Hiked 2 short easy trails (Little Falls and the Conservation Nature Loop- which we drove to). Absolutely beautiful!" reports Angie G. The park maintains well-marked trails suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers.
What campers like
Extra-large campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites at Soaring Eagle Campground. "The sites are larger than most campgrounds and well spaced out. I have been there on busy holiday weekends where it was full but still peaceful and private," says Nichole P.
Clean facilities: Lower Lake Campground Beechwood Area receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Bathrooms were clean and so was the site. Sites were a good size and not on top of each other," notes Siobhan D. Multiple reviews mention hot showers and well-maintained restrooms.
Off-season tranquility: Fall and spring camping offers significantly different experiences. "We visited in fall so we had the entire place to ourselves," writes Rosanna C. about Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort. Similarly, at Lower Lake Campground, spring camping is described as "Not crowded this time of year, serene, and perfect weather."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Mobile connectivity is problematic throughout the region. At Mountain Top RV Park, one camper reports: "Cell service is awful for AT&T and our T-Mobile gateway. Had to move to a new site to get away from the trees to get starlink connectivity."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close during winter months. Timothy Lake South operates from "May 1 to October 31," while Soaring Eagle Campground runs "May 1 to Columbus Day." Plan accordingly as few options exist from November through April.
Supply limitations: Many campgrounds have minimal on-site shopping. For Lower Lake Campground, one camper advises: "Firewood was available in the area. But not much for stores so pack everything in before." State parks typically don't sell firewood on-site.
Flooding concerns: Some lower elevation sites experience drainage issues. At Mountain Top RV Park: "It may be best to book on the upper levels because the lower area where we were did flood pretty bad a couple times when there was a lot of rain."
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Thousand Trails Timothy Lake South offers family-friendly amenities. "My kids explored the playground and found it sufficient," reports Ashley O., though another notes the campground focuses more on basics than elaborate entertainment options.
Quiet areas: When selecting campgrounds, consider noise levels. Clayton Park RV Escape provides "Excellent family quiet area. Pool boats, hike, relax," according to David R. This makes it suitable for families with younger children needing consistent sleep schedules.
Buffer zones: Look for campgrounds with space between sites when traveling with children. At Lower Lake Campground, "RV pads were spaced out perfectly and we all had our own picnic table and fire pit," says Maze M., noting that "you could only ever hear the wildlife" despite the campground being relatively full.
Tips from RVers
Highway noise considerations: RV camping near Tafton often means proximity to highways. At Tri-State RV Park, multiple reviewers mention road noise: "Located just off the highway so lots of vehicle noise 24/7. Sites are on a gravel lot," warns Michael H., while another notes it's "right off the freeway and you can hear it."
Electric service realities: While many campgrounds advertise 50-amp service, availability varies. "Kind of a pain to not be able to use the booster for all our devices in the rig," reports Mary H. about connectivity issues at Timothy Lake South. Another camper notes "The best water pressure I have seen on the east coast, unregulated it's over 80 psi" - suggesting water pressure regulators are essential equipment.
Site selection strategy: For RV camping in the Poconos, many parks use first-come, first-served systems. "First of all you have to find your own site as there are no assigned sites available. This had us pulling our 33ft camper around the whole campground until we came across our site," explains Ray L. about Timothy Lake North. Arriving early on check-in day improves site options significantly.
