7 campgrounds with availability next weekend
The northeastern Pennsylvania landscape surrounding Thompson features a mix of state parks, private campgrounds, and lakeside retreats within the rolling hills of the Pocono region. Lackawanna State Park Campground, approximately 20 miles southwest of Thompson, provides electric hookups and boat-in access from mid-April through October. Nearby Keen Lake Resort Campground in Waymart offers a full-service experience with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals around a scenic lake. The area's smaller, more intimate options include Oh! Pear Orchards, with just five walk-in sites along a peaceful stream, providing a quieter alternative to the larger established campgrounds.
Camping seasons generally run from late April through mid-October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for summer weekends and holiday periods. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with T-Mobile reported as reliable in some areas while other carriers may have limited coverage. As one camper noted at a nearby pond, "Beautiful views, quiet, no insect issues so far... T-Mobile service has been exceptional." Road access to most established campgrounds is generally good, though some of the more secluded options may require navigating rural roads. Visitors should be prepared for ticks and mosquitoes during summer months, as mentioned in several reviews.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout the region, with ponds, lakes, and streams offering fishing and paddling opportunities. Campers frequently mention the appeal of lakeside sites despite their popularity. As one visitor to Keen Lake noted, "We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. Each day we would paddle over to the swimming area." Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds, with some visitors noting proximity concerns. A common theme in reviews highlights the trade-off between amenities and seclusion: developed campgrounds offer more facilities but often feature closely spaced sites, while more primitive options provide greater separation between campers but fewer conveniences.
"I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. "
"We didn’t have a view of the lake, instead we were in someone’s back yard lol. It wasn’t a big deal. The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important."
"The staff is low key and blend in while working behind the scenes to make your stay a safe and great time."
from $15 - $140 / night
"Very clean and right next to the river. Pool is nice."
"Pleasant campground right next to the Susquehanna river. One washer and dryer for about 150 RVs many are longer term. We just stayed a few nights"
"Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting, firewood easily accessible, close to state parks and lots of wide, open undeveloped"
"This listing has peaceful tent sites located against the creek. After reading a few of their reviews on another platform, it seems they also have some of the best firepits around. "
Available next weekend
from $45 / night
"The sites were a little close to each other and where we were in the park was a mixed use area. So we had an RV next to us with the Genny running all day."
"The main reason we didn't do more was the distance. We have a motorhome so we didn't have additional vehicles to get to and from places."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 - $90 / night
"Each campsite had plenty of space to drive up to without being right on top of the other campers."
"It is a little off the beaten path but is great for families (plenty of activities for kids) and pets (our dog LOVES it there)."
from $28 - $34 / night
"The beautiful setting around is nicely within the woods. There is also a playground and the rates are hard to beat."
"It was great to add this campground with secluded, wooded sites along a private lake. You can also enjoy fishing here. Let’s help them out and leave some reviews!"
from $38 - $146 / night
ScoutOctober leaves starting to fall makes for a very quiet, peaceful midweek evening in one of the two dispersed car camping sites. Exactly what I was hoping for - private and empty and lovely. Easy to find - two dispersed car sites are to the left at the fork in the road before the trailhead.
GuideStayed October 14 without reservations because website showed lots of availability. Office was closed (M-F 8-4) so submitted honor system envelope with cash and stayed at Site 041 on Carpenter loop. Shower building was a short walk and was spacious enough. Water temp didn’t quite reach hot but was warm enough.
Electric kept on tripping breaker.
ScoutThis clothing-optional campground has a highly toxic, intrusive, and vindictive environment. During my stay, the seasonal permanent residents('perms') subjected me to intense harassment, inappropriate sexual advances, and severe social retaliation/rumor-spreading when those advances were rejected. The situation escalated to the point where an employee had to intervene for my safety. Furthermore, despite management allowing my photo to be taken in costume at a party, I was intentionally blocked from the community group where the photos were posted, leaving me unable to monitor how my image was being used. Avoid this place if you value your privacy, personal boundaries, and safety.
GuideWe went the 2nd week of October and seems like we had just missed the foliage peak but it was still beautiful.
Everyone minded their business and most sites were 2-4 people, showers were clean and warm but the kind where you gotta push the button every 30 seconds. Toilets were clean and running smoothly (we were in the southernmost loop, closest to the camp office)
No cellphone reception but we could get satellite signal to text our loved ones that we were alive and well!
We loved the hiking and especially kayaking on the pond
RangerWe booked a cabin at the last minute and were pleasantly surprised that the cabin had heat and electricity! It was very close to the awesome heated bathroom also! We were also able to catch a beautiful sunset! Great camp all around!
RangerWe came here 4th of July weekend, and this is one of the things I love about these sites...they had availability! Our site was very big, and was perfect with sone shade and also lots of sun!
TravelerOnly 3 sites along this stretch of road, and they're spaced nicely. Lots of tree cover for a nice shady camping spot. Tons of wild life, expect the bear to wander through camp. By far one of my favorite camping spots!
No electric, no water, no dump site, no shower, Vault toilets in walking distance.
GuideReally liked it. Love the layout, with camp sites having mowed paths to the restrooms and showers in the middle of each loop. Nicest showers and rest rooms we have seen so far. Each site has brush between them so you can not see your neighbors. Pretty, quiet, relaxing. The groomed hiking trails are the best and Arctic Lake is beautiful. Staff were so nice, and loved doing the scavenger hunt!
ScoutLove this campground along with the owners. They have taken good care of the property and do a wonderful job with making sure you are enjoying your time.
Dispersed camping near Thompson, Pennsylvania places campers in the northeastern corner of the state at elevations between 1,500 and 2,000 feet. The region's humid continental climate creates distinct camping seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area close by mid-October, with early season camping starting in late April when nighttime temperatures regularly drop into the 40s.
Fishing at multiple lakes: Oh! Pear Orchards offers five tent sites along a stream perfect for casual fishing. A camper notes, "This is a special place! Campsites next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting."
Swimming options: Lackawanna State Park Campground features both a swimming beach and a large pool area. As one visitor mentioned, "This is an amazing state park that has something for everyone... fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails."
Boating rentals: Pine Crest Campground provides an easy-access boat ramp on the Susquehanna River. According to a camper, "Big flat sites, a huge pond, pavilion with nightly entertainment, a swimming pool, all right in the Susquehanna River. A boat launch also to launch your watercraft."
Spacious sites: Many campsites near Thompson offer room to spread out. At Oh! Pear Orchards, campers appreciate that "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness stands out in reviews. At Montrose Campground, visitors note the "bath house, which was the cleanest and nicest one I had ever seen at a campground. The hosts and community there were super nice and respectful."
Seasonal activities: Throughout the camping season, many campgrounds offer programmed events. Valley View Farm and Campground earns praise for its peaceful environment: "Very clean sites and bathrooms. Quiet and peaceful at night and the other campers were very friendly."
Site variations: Site privacy differs significantly between campgrounds. A Lackawanna State Park visitor noted, "Some are a little close to each other, but others offer plenty of space, including our site (52) on this trip. One of the biggest spots we have ever had."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from late April to mid-October. At Pine Crest, winter camping is limited: "We camped in late November. A few campers. Quiet and we were able to camp on the river... We were self contained. Which was best since the bath house was closed for the winter."
Walk-in requirements: Some smaller campgrounds require carrying gear. At Keen Lake Resort Campground, a reviewer advised, "Get a site on the lake. If you don't want to drive during your stay, camp on the side with the beach and pool."
Look for organized activities: Family-friendly campgrounds offer structured programming. A visitor to Keen Lake mentioned, "They have activity coordinators that make sure there is something to do for all ages every hour of the day!"
Consider amenities proximity: Many family campers recommend sites near bathrooms and recreation areas. One family noted at Keen Lake: "We were on the far side of the lake which is not really within walking distance of the beach, pool and store... If you stay closer to those things it would be easy to walk & ride bikes to the different activities."
Check site spacing: When camping with children, site proximity matters. A Montrose Campground visitor observed, "Each campsite had plenty of space to drive up to without being right on top of the other campers. The site we were at was on top of a hill and an easy walk to the bath house."
Hookup reliability: Electric systems vary in quality at campgrounds near Thompson. One RVer at Lackawanna State Park reported, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this mountainous region feature uneven terrain. A visitor to Shady Rest Campground noted: "Very hilly campground. Sites aren't level. Nice place."
Assistance with setup: Some campgrounds provide setup help. At Pine Crest Campground, an RVer appreciated that "The people at the campground lead us to our space and assisted us backing into the site the first try."
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there glamping options in Thompson, Ohio?
Thompson, Ohio has limited traditional glamping options, but nearby alternatives provide comfort-focused camping experiences. Keen Lake Resort Campground offers resort-style amenities that approach glamping standards. For those seeking upgraded camping experiences near Thompson, Frances Slocum State Park Campground features some spacious sites with both wooded and grassy areas, particularly in the Stony Point loop. While not luxury glamping, these options provide more comfortable camping experiences with amenities beyond basic tent camping. For true glamping accommodations, you may need to look beyond the immediate Thompson area.
What camping facilities are available in Thompson, PA?
Thompson, PA and the surrounding area offer several camping options. Salt Springs State Park Campground provides a unique experience maintained by the Friends of Salt Springs rather than state funding. For RV camping, Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground offers a gated facility with water and electric hookups, though tent sites are limited and often fill up during holidays. Other nearby options include Shady Rest Campground near Union Dale with drive-in access, water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly sites, and Valley View Farm and Campground near Waymart that accommodates drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in camping.
What are the reservation requirements for Thompson Campground?
While there isn't a specific Thompson Campground in the immediate area, nearby campgrounds have varied reservation policies. Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park requires advance reservations for its private lakeside walk-in sites, especially during peak seasons. Susquehanna Trail Campground near Oneonta accepts reservations for its 30-amp gravel back-in RV campsites with water and sewer connections. Most state park campgrounds in the region, like Tobyhanna and Little Pond, recommend reservations, particularly for weekend and summer stays. For specific reservation details, it's best to contact your desired campground directly as policies may change seasonally.
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