Northeastern Pennsylvania features extensive woodland areas with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,100 feet in the Union Dale region. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers averaging 75-80°F and cold winters with temperatures frequently below freezing. Many campgrounds in northeastern Pennsylvania remain open from April through October, with a handful offering year-round accommodations for campers seeking pet friendly options in all seasons.
What to do
Trail access year-round: Shady Rest Campground provides easy access to local trails that remain open throughout all seasons. "The beautiful setting around is nicely within the woods. There is also a playground and the rates are hard to beat. The campground is on 16 acres, and if you'd like you may hike around, there is a beautiful creek," notes Kasey M.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Keen Lake Resort Campground offers numerous water-based recreation options for visitors and their pets. "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 on the lake. It was awesome," shares Shannon C. The resort maintains designated swimming areas where dogs can cool off during summer months.
Winter recreation options: Some regional parks and campgrounds maintain winter activities when other facilities close. At Lackawanna State Park, visitors can enjoy winter hiking trails when properly equipped. "We would love to come back in the winter when they have an ice rink with a warming house," notes Michael, highlighting year-round recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Valley View Farm Campground receives consistent praise for its forested camping areas. "One of the best places I've stayed all year. Great spots to setup your own tent as well as cabins and trailers. My daughter and I highly recommend this campground to anyone who loves the forest and the peace and tranquility that comes along with it," writes Steve in his review.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness ranks high among visitor priorities throughout the region. "The owners are very nice and helpful. Very clean sites and bathrooms. Quiet and peaceful at night and the other campers were very friendly," shares Dawn C. about her experience at Valley View Farm Campground, highlighting the attention to maintenance that enhances camping comfort.
Pet-specific amenities: Honesdale-Poconos KOA maintains dedicated facilities for campers with pets. "Exactly what we expected. KOAs are known for being clean and this was no exception. We had a fantastic first camping experience for the kids (and dogs)," reports Corey M., noting the campground's accommodation of both children and pets.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds offer significantly different experiences depending on site location. At Honesdale-Poconos KOA, tent sites may have limitations: "I was disappointed with the location they put us as tent campers. We paid for water and electric. The electrical outlet and water was half way across the 'circle lot' they put us and we had to share it with other campers," reports Samantha S.
Winter restrictions apply: Many campgrounds limit water services during cold months. At Pickerel Point Campground, Mara S. notes: "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."
Varying cell reception: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. "The only negative is that I had almost no cell reception with Verizon," mentions Mara S. about Pickerel Point Campground, an important consideration for those needing to stay connected during their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and structured activities: Cherry Ridge Campsites offers planned activities for children throughout the camping season. "Multi site facility with many activities. Campfires permitted, fishing, row boat rental, bath house, dance hall. Country kitchen has breakfast and lunch on Saturday, breakfast only on Sunday," mentions Beverly J., highlighting options that keep children entertained.
Kid-friendly water features: Lakes with gradual entry points provide safer swimming for families with young children. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless. You absolutely have to bring a kayak/inflatable boat, but if you don't own one, don't worry, you can rent one," advises Debbie W. about Pickerel Point Campground.
Educational opportunities: Several area campgrounds feature nature programs specifically designed for children. "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails," Janet R. notes about Lackawanna State Park, offering learning experiences alongside recreational activities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region sit on uneven terrain requiring preparation. "Very hilly campground. Sites aren't level. Nice place," James P. mentions about Shady Rest Campground, suggesting that RVers bring adequate leveling equipment.
Hookup reliability concerns: Older electrical systems at some campgrounds may not support multiple high-draw appliances. "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained," cautions David about Lackawanna State Park.
RV-specific sites: For more comfortable RV camping, specific site selection matters. "The KOA campgrounds are always extremely well maintained with all the amenities we want. Love the KOA patio sites, worth the few extra dollars," Rebecca S. recommends about pet-friendly options at Honesdale-Poconos KOA.
Ranger
