Camping spots near Tannersville, Pennsylvania offer varied experiences at elevations between 800-2,100 feet, creating temperature variations of 5-10°F between valley and ridge campgrounds. Most Pocono campgrounds receive 45-50 inches of precipitation annually, with August typically being the wettest camping month. The area's diverse geological features include multiple lakes, the Delaware River, and distinctive boulder fields that influence the camping terrain.
What to do
Hike the boulder field: Hickory Run State Park features an unusual National Natural Landmark that draws many campers. "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields," notes one visitor to Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Visit the wolf preserve: Camp Taylor Campground offers a unique wildlife experience with the Lakota Wolf Preserve on-site. "There is a section of RV spots that are each cut out in the woods so very private. You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance," explains a camper at Camp Taylor Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Worthington State Forest provides access to the Delaware River for anglers. "This campground has been our favorite by far. The spots are huge, and mostly private. Plenty of beautiful trails with lots of wildlife! If you enjoy kayaking or canoeing they have sites which have river access right from your site," reports a reviewer.
Water recreation: Multiple lakes provide swimming and boating options. At Tobyhanna State Park, "There's a separate shore for kayaks and canoes to enter the lake. We even got to see an eagles' nest near our campsite," one camper mentions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The wooded nature of many campgrounds provides good separation. At Mountain Vista Campground, "Sites are very well shaded but some can be tight. Great activities for all ages. Had an amazing first visit and will be going back!"
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. One camper at Mount Pocono Campground noted, "Cleanest campground bathouse I've ever used! Great hiking trail right from the site. Be prepared for walking up and downhill - quite the unexpected workout."
Family activities: Organized events keep children entertained. A visitor to Otter Lake Camp Resort shared, "Otter lake has every amenity imaginable super clean swimming beach beautiful lake with boat rentals available. Tons of activities for kids and adults. Indoor pool with 2 hot tubs even a dry sauna. Tennis volleyball pickle ball basketball bocce ball."
Direct water access: Waterfront sites allow immediate enjoyment of lakes and rivers. At Pickerel Point Campground, "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Bears are active throughout the Pocono region. A camper at Tobyhanna State Park Campground warns, "Just stayed 2 nights with my 7 yrs. old daughter we had a blast. Everyone was very nice camp host and DCNR were very helpful. We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent."
Campsite selection matters: Quality varies significantly between sites at many campgrounds. "We picked this site because you can kayak and it's close to the tree top adventures. Typical campground with bathrooms and showers. The best part is the lake for water activities and the surrounding things you can do," notes a Tobyhanna visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds can be challenging. At Hickory Run, a camper observed: "Careful on the roads to the campsite, they're a bit on the bumpy side. Defo smaller roads than your usual ones. We have a minivan so we had to take our time on all the pot holes."
Seasonal facilities: Some amenities close early in the season. A camper at Delaware Water Gap KOA mentioned, "The pool was closed for the season when we were there, but the kids were able to enjoy an awesome playground and bounce pad. The roads were also great for them to ride on and get exercise."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. At Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA, a family noted, "Our camp site was great (52), backed onto a wooded area and a big playground was directly in front of us, which worked out perfectly since we have school age kids."
Biking-friendly paths: Many campgrounds have good roads for children to ride. "The campground is convenient to many hikes in the Delaware Water Gap area. Set on a hillside, the campground has three levels. The tent sites all have water & electric, and have a picnic table and fire ring," explains a visitor to Mountain Vista.
Educational opportunities: Seek out nature programs and museums. A Hickory Run visitor shared, "The visitors center boasts the most modern updates and a truly lovely interactive museum displaying the history and current wildlife of the park."
Lakeside camping for kids: Children enjoy direct water access. At Pickerel Point, "Loved camping on Pickerel Point. Kids had a great time! Bathrooms could be cleaned more often but relatively clean. Love that the road is paved, it makes it easy for the kids to ride bikes, skate etc..."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Some campgrounds offer secluded RV spots. "We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade," notes a visitor to Hickory Run.
Electrical hookups vary: Check amperage offerings before booking. At Pickerel Point Campground, "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."
Winter camping options: Some campgrounds remain open year-round. "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season, and feel like we have gone to heaven! The other campers are friendly and welcoming, the views are breathtaking," shares an RVer.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. At Camp Taylor, a reviewer noted, "Electric and water hookups, no sewer but there's a dump station on the way out. Wooded and delightfully devoid of golf carts."
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