The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Thornhurst sits at elevations between 1,500-2,100 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than nearby cities. This area receives approximately 50 inches of annual precipitation, making campsite drainage an important consideration during spring and early summer camping trips. Fall camping season typically runs from mid-September through late October when nighttime temperatures regularly drop into the 30s.
What to do
Hiking trails with waterfalls: At Ricketts Glen State Park Campground, visitors access over 22 waterfalls via well-maintained trails. "Great hiking! There are various trails for all skill levels, and pets are welcome!" notes Lexi, who appreciates the park's accessibility options. The Falls Trail forms a 7-mile loop passing most waterfalls, though shorter routes exist.
Wolf preserve tours: Campers at Camp Taylor Campground can join discounted tours of the on-site Lakota Wolf Preserve. "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 Julie F., describing one of the region's unique wildlife experiences.
Boulder field exploration: The unusual 16-acre boulder field at Hickory Run State Park provides a distinct geological feature for exploration. "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown," shares Mike M. about this National Natural Landmark where no vegetation grows between the rocks.
Lake activities: Many parks offer fishing and non-motorized boating options. "The lake is very nice a little copper kind of like iced tea color but was very nice," reports Erik M. about Tobyhanna Lake. Boat rentals typically cost $15-25 per hour at most Pocono area lakes, with fishing licenses required for anglers 16 and older.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Otter Lake Camp Resort provides secluded camping areas within forested settings. "All sites are wooded, clean and spacious. We have been coming here for 11 years!" says Barbara M., highlighting the natural surroundings that create separation between camping areas. Many sites feature partial or full shade from mature trees.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses as a key amenity. "The bathrooms were the cleanest we've ever experienced at a campground. The showers are coin operated," notes Emily Z. about Keen Lake, providing practical insight about shower costs. Most campground bathhouses in the area are cleaned twice daily.
Diverse accommodation options: Mount Pocono Campground offers multiple lodging styles from primitive tent sites to cabins. "The campground was very scenic and clean. The only thing holding me back from giving 5 stars, is there weren't enough bath/shower facilities, there are plenty of port o' potties though. The tent sights are the small side (about 15'x35') but the atmosphere is relaxed," explains Eli D.
Nature immersion with amenities: Many campers appreciate having both natural settings and conveniences. "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," shares Shirley M. about Hickory Run State Park, noting the balance between developed camping areas and natural surroundings.
What you should know
Bear activity protocols: Hickory Run State Park Campground and surrounding areas maintain strict food storage requirements. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," Jennifer D. explains. All food items must be stored in vehicles or hard-sided containers when not actively cooking or eating.
Limited cell service: Coverage varies widely throughout the region. "There is a lot to do in the state park. Many hiking trails (44 miles of trails). They are rated from easy to difficult," mentions Shirley M., who found adequate coverage at Hickory Run, but many nearby campgrounds have spotty or nonexistent service in lower-elevation areas.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill completely on summer weekends and during fall foliage season. "We came here Spur of the moment and it was well worth it, definitely coming back! The check in personnel was friendly and efficient!" reports Jason about Mount Pocono Campground, one of the few places sometimes accepting last-minute bookings during peak times.
Water quality variation: Several area campgrounds occasionally experience water issues. "The water had been tested earlier in the season and unsafe levels of manganese were detected. All water spigots were shut off and covered but we were told it was safe to wash our dishes and brush our teeth," shares Lee D. about Ricketts Glen, explaining the temporary accommodations made for water safety.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request sites near recreation areas if traveling with children. "The sites were not too close together. Overall, we'd come back," says Jen about Hickory Run, where playgrounds exist in multiple loops. Most family-oriented campgrounds place play equipment within 300 feet of family camping areas.
Lake beaches vs pools: Lackawanna State Park Campground offers both swimming options during summer months. "There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool. We went in early spring midweek, it was very quiet and exactly the get away we wanted," David G. explains. Lake beaches typically have gradual entry points suitable for younger children while pools may have designated shallow areas.
Activity scheduling: Many campgrounds offer structured programs for kids. "The staff were friendly throughout the weekend. The sites were spacious. The campground was very quiet, and all of the facilities were very clean and well maintained," notes Dave B. about Mount Pocono Campground, where weekend activities typically run from late morning through early evening.
Supply availability: On-site stores stock varying levels of necessities. "The store was well stocked with everything and more one would need while camping!!!" Jason mentions about Mount Pocono Campground. However, most camping supply stores close by 6pm, so evening arrivals should bring all immediate necessities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Jim Thorpe Camping Resort and other mountain campgrounds require careful positioning. "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!" shares Angie G. Most RV sites in the region require leveling blocks due to the mountainous terrain.
Hookup reliability: Electrical service can fluctuate during peak usage times. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," reports David about Lackawanna State Park, highlighting infrastructure issues that sometimes affect RV campers during hot weather when air conditioners run constantly.
Access road considerations: Many Pocono campgrounds have narrow entrance roads. "This was our first trip with our new to us jayco. We stayed in site 20. Easy to back in. Didn't need leveling blocks as our site was nice and level," notes Angela about Jim Thorpe, where access roads accommodate most RVs under 35 feet without difficulty despite the mountainous terrain.
Dump station timing: Most campgrounds have single dump stations that become congested during checkout periods. "There is a dump station on the way out," mentions Dina S. about Camp Taylor Campground. Plan to use dump stations before 10am or after 2pm on checkout days to avoid long waits during peak departure times.
