The Pocono Mountains region surrounding Walnutport sits at elevations ranging from 400-1600 feet, creating varied camping terrain across Carbon and Lehigh counties. Weather patterns shift dramatically by season, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months while spring and fall bring considerable temperature swings. Winter camping options remain available at select locations, though most campgrounds close from November through early April.
What to Do
Boulder exploration: At Hickory Run State Park Campground, visitors can experience the unique 16-acre boulder field, a National Natural Landmark. "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," writes Amber A. The field requires a short drive from the campground area on a stone road.
Hiking access: Blue Rocks Family Campground provides direct access to notable hiking trails. "Lovely camp site with access to a lot of amenities, all the while keeping a 'primative' feel. Super easy access to Appalachian trail. Trail heads begin inside the campsite," notes Amy C. The Pinnacle Trail, accessible directly from the campground, offers panoramic views after a moderate climb.
Water activities: Mauch Chunk Lake Park features a swimming beach and boat rentals. "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake, went to bed, woke up to make some breakfast and then we were off to go rafting on the Lehigh river 10 minutes away," shares Emma T. The park offers kayak and canoe rentals for $15-25 per hour.
What Campers Like
Diverse site options: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers various camping experiences across its loops. "The sites are large and many are somewhat private in terms of visual barriers. Some bathrooms are latrines, but they also have beautiful, fully updated showers and restrooms available," explains Bridget D. The campground features over 300 sites spread across wooded and more open areas.
Creek-side relaxation: Allentown KOA features sites alongside a flowing creek. "We had a nice pull-through site and enjoyed our stay. Nice stream running through camp," says Craig C. Another camper adds: "Really nice campground. Staff was friendly and helpful. It's very secluded, no highway noise. Our spot backed up right to a creek and it was beautiful."
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds operate seasonally, but a few accommodate winter visitors. At Stonybrook RV Resort, winter camping provides a different experience: "We stayed here during the winter January-February no activities going on. It does offer beautiful views especially covered in snow. Has a heated pool and playground, laundry facilities and a small game. Shower/bathrooms are the best I've ever seen," reports Jamie S.
What You Should Know
Site selection strategy: When booking at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, consider site placement carefully. "Our site was way to small even though we gave the length and width of our rig ahead of time. We were always looking for a place to park our tow because we had no extra space in front or back. The RVs were parked so close together that none of us could use our awnings," warns Donna C. Request specific site measurements before booking.
Pet policy variations: Don Laine Campground provides accommodations for those seeking pet-friendly camping near Walnutport, Pennsylvania. The campground offers spacious sites where pets are welcome. Some campgrounds in the region charge pet fees—Pocono Point charges "$10/night per pet. Never heard of paying for pets at a campground," notes Lorie B.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds and even within different camping loops. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, "Outhouses could use a little work. But a further walk will take you to flushing toilets and showers that are nice," explains Amy C. Many campers recommend bringing shower shoes and checking bathroom proximity when selecting sites.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Lizard Creek Campground (formerly Blue Ridge Campground) offers family amenities beyond hiking. "Nice pool decent playground for kids. Definitely recommend creek side site if you can. Bathrooms a little dated but were very clean," says Brandon W. The playground area is centrally located and visible from nearby campsites for easier supervision.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities for children. "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming. The campsites were adequate size," shares Danielle F. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Most campgrounds with swimming areas have seasonal operations, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day, with limited or no lifeguard supervision.
Camp store supplies: Hickory Run State Park Campground maintains a well-stocked store for forgotten items. "The camp store had good hours and is stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need for a very comfortable stay," says Bridget D. The store stocks basic camping supplies, snacks, and some grocery items during regular operating hours.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Blue Mountain RV and Camping Resort, level sites can be limited. "Grounds are well kept and rather large open field type camping with trees all around the outside. No electric or water hookups but fresh water is offered if needed," reports Lois. Many RVers recommend bringing extra leveling blocks, especially for the more rustic campgrounds.
Hookup variations: The region offers varying levels of hookups across campgrounds. Jim Thorpe Camping Resort provides full-hookup options but with spatial challenges: "Very tightly packed but a cool campground. We had a small pop up trailer with available hookups," notes Christina L. Most campgrounds offering sewer connections charge premium rates for these sites, typically $5-15 more per night than electric-only options.
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