Thornhurst and surrounding Poconos camping areas sit at elevations between 1,800-2,200 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures compared to nearby cities. The region experiences heavy rainfall in summer months, with thunderstorms common in July and August. Campgrounds in this area typically maintain lower site density than those in adjacent Delaware Water Gap regions.
What to do
Explore boulder fields: Hickory Run State Park features unique geological formations where visitors can navigate across acres of stone. "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 a camper at Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Fish in copper-colored waters: Lakes throughout the region have a distinctive tea color due to natural tannins. At Otter Lake Camp Resort, visitors can fish directly from lakefront sites. "There is a big lake you can fish from, kayak, bring your own boat and even swim from when it's warm out. There are some sites right against the lake where you can fish right there," explains a reviewer.
Winter activities: Several campgrounds remain open during winter months with modified services. "This was my second visit in the cold months. Sites have electric but no water. Spigot close by. Heated cozy bathhouse with clean showers. The park is large with many hiking trails and ice fishing," reports a visitor to Promised Land State Park.
What campers like
Lake activities: Tobyhanna State Park offers multiple water recreation options. "Scenic state park with a lake. You can swim in the lake in the summer or do a 5-mile hike around the lake along well-marked walk paths. The hike should last 1.5 to 2 hours for the average person," explains one camper at Tobyhanna State Park Campground.
Modern facilities: Many campgrounds feature recently updated amenities. "The bathhouse is always clean and has hot water available at all times. Small store with everything you can think of and a park for kids to play in," notes a visitor to Hemlock Campground & Cottages.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds throughout the region provide opportunities to observe native species. "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," shares a Tobyhanna State Park camper, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage.
What you should know
Site terrain challenges: Some camping areas have difficult terrain to navigate. "We picked site 44 in the Stony Point loop and it was by far the largest campsite on the property. We had a thick covered wooded area to our right and a huge grassy area to the left," reports a visitor to Frances Slocum State Park Campground, but cautions, "mosquitoes and ticks can ruin a good trip, come prepared!"
Water quality concerns: Lakes in the region occasionally experience algae issues. Frances Slocum State Park campers note, "DO NOT take your pups to the water. There is a weird bacteria or algae currently growing in the lake, it's completely visible. There are advisories around about it too."
Seasonal operation schedule: Most state parks operate from mid-April through mid-October. "We were there for the last weekend of the season-weekend before Halloween. They offered different activities. And had (socially distanced) trick or treating for kids!" explains a Mountain Vista camper.
Tips for camping with families
Rainy day options: The region experiences frequent summer showers. "We camped during Memorial Day weekend and had a blast, even in the rain! The staff were fantastic and lots of activities to keep us busy," shares a visitor at Mountain Vista Campground.
Pet exercise requirements: For pet friendly camping near Thornhurst, Pennsylvania, dedicated pet recreation areas are important. "Beautiful Campground. Clean. Gravel sites. Fire ring and picnic table. All sites have ample room. Large dog park. Love the Campground except our site is near a fairly busy road which takes away from that beautiful tranquility," notes a Mountain Vista camper.
Structured activities: Many campgrounds offer organized programs. "We have been going to this campground since I could walk and it's never gotten old. I just went there again this past summer, and the lake and near by hikes are perfect for everyone in the family," reports a Tobyhanna State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Winter preparation: RV camping continues year-round at select sites. "We are lucky enough to have a lakefront site at Otter Lake for the Winter season. The other campers are friendly and welcoming, the views are breathtaking, the walk around the lake is great, and the facilities are super clean," explains an RVer at Peaceful Woodlands Campground.
Site type selection: Different campground loops offer varying experiences. "The tent sites all have water & electric, and have a picnic table and fire ring. The sites are fully shaded. Facilities were neat & clean, and there was a covered verandah with string lights, chairs & picnic tables outside the bathroom area," describes a Mountain Vista camper.
Arrival timing: For pet friendly camping near Thornhurst, Pennsylvania, midweek arrivals offer advantages. "The pet sites at Tobyhanna looked to have more space. Camp sites were nice most had plenty of trees for privacy but were still kind of close," notes an RVer, adding that weekday check-ins often result in better site selection.
