Pet-friendly camping near Tannersville, Pennsylvania offers diverse terrain across elevations ranging from 800 to 1,800 feet throughout the Pocono Mountains region. Campgrounds cluster along creek beds and lake shores within a 20-minute drive radius from Tannersville, with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding urban areas. Most sites experience moderate rainfall even during summer months.
What to do
Hike from campsite to explore: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, campers can access 44 miles of trails without driving. "Many hiking trails (44 miles of trails). They are rated from easy to difficult. We found the 2 trails we hiked - Hawk Falls and Shades of Death trails - where were rated 'more difficult' were not bad to hike at all," notes Shirley M.
Visit the wolf preserve: Camp Taylor Campground offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities within walking distance. "The Lakota Wolf Preserve is located on the camp and offers discounted tours for campers," says Jean T. Another camper mentions, "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."
Fish directly from lakefront sites: Several waterfront campgrounds allow fishing right from your site. At Pickerel Point Campground, "My favorite site does [allow pets], plus I can launch my kayak right from there!" says Nancy L. The campground features crystal-clear water access for paddling and fishing.
What campers like
Clean facilities year-round: Tobyhanna State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms even in peak season. "Bathrooms were immaculate even had a family bathroom," reports one visitor. The campground provides "shaded areas that can fit two cars onsite and include picnic tables, some even with water and electric hookups."
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between sites. At Otter Lake Camp Resort, "Sites are very well shaded but some can be tight," reports Jojo P. The campground features areas where "you can fish right there" along the lakefront.
Family-focused amenities: Activity options extend beyond hiking trails. "Their pool and kiddie splash pad is well kept as are the rest of the facilities. They have a ton of great activities from kids carnival, craft beer tastings, farmers market, bingo...the list goes on!" shares J K. about their experience at Mountain Vista Campground.
What you should know
Bear activity is common: Proper food storage is mandatory, not optional. "Do not leave any food out be sure to lock up everything in car. Camp sites were nice most had plenty of trees for privacy but were still kind of close. Pet sites looked to have more space," warns Erik M. about Tobyhanna State Park.
Site selection varies widely: Not all sites offer the same experience, even within the same campground. At Delaware Water Gap / Pocono Mountain KOA, "Some were big and socially distanced like the one we had. But some were extremely small and very close to the next camper. Some were in the woods and some were practically on the main road," reports Carol N.
Hike-in options available: Several campgrounds offer more secluded options. "The hike in spot is about 5 minutes from the parking spot. Very secluded, price isn't that bad and the staff is friendly," notes Addam C. about Cranberry Run Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-site options: Groups need space for multiple tents. "We had a group of 10 people and they were able to put us all on the same site. Looks like they have permanently merged sites 81 and 82. They also have larger group sites (up to 50 people) available," explains Sarah L. about her stay at Cranberry Run.
Playground proximity matters: Choose sites near play areas to balance supervision with relaxation. "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," reports Penny C. about the KOA.
Reserve shaded sites in summer: Temperatures can fluctuate significantly between sunny and shaded areas. At Mount Pocono Campground, tent sites are "about 15'x35' but the atmosphere is relaxed and you are surrounded by shady trees," notes Eli D. This provides natural cooling during hot summer days.
Tips from RVers
Book full hookup sites early: The most desirable spots with sewer connections fill quickly. "I loved being lakefront with full hook up. Such a beautiful and peaceful place," shares Stephanie C. about Otter Lake Camp Resort.
Level sites are limited: Many campgrounds have some degree of slope. "Sites are dirt/grass and are not level, but they are long which makes up for the front to back level issue," explains Bret N. about Pocono Vacation Park.
Driveway conditions vary: Some access roads require extra care. "The driveway is a little hairy - steep with crushed stone on top of pavement. Which led to some tire slippage on the way up with our setup," warns Corey P. about approaching one campground.
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