s
sorcha A.
Traveler
TravelerShady Oak Campground
Easy access to Lancaster and Pennsylvania Dutch areas. Friendly, welcoming staff and plenty of colorful trees in the autumn. The only RV park in the area that is open year round.
Tent Camping near Walnutport, PA
4 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Search destinations
Add dates
Tent camping options near Walnutport, Pennsylvania focus primarily on primitive sites, with several established campgrounds offering tent-specific areas. Hikers can access multiple tent sites along the Appalachian Trail near Lehigh Gap, including the AT Ridge Campground, AT Overlook Campground, and George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter. The Lehigh Gap area provides several primitive tent sites that serve as stopping points for through-hikers or weekend backpackers, while Mauch Chunk Lake Park in nearby Jim Thorpe offers more developed tent camping facilities with picnic tables and fire rings.
The terrain at tent sites varies considerably throughout the region. Appalachian Trail campsites typically feature stone fire rings and space for multiple tents, though ground conditions can be challenging after rain. One camper noted that the AT Ridge Campground "is surrounded by a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail." Most primitive sites lack amenities, with no potable water, restrooms, or trash service available. Campers should pack in all necessary supplies and be prepared to filter water from natural sources or travel to designated water points. Bear activity is common in the area, so proper food storage is essential.
Tent campers seeking views should prioritize the ridgeline sites near Lehigh Gap. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, the AT Overlook Campground is "by far the best campsite option on this section of the AT" where you can "set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door." Morning fog often settles in the valleys, creating dramatic vistas at sunrise. These hike-in sites require good navigation skills and physical preparation, as most are accessible only via moderately difficult trails. The primitive nature of these campgrounds appeals particularly to those seeking solitude and natural surroundings. Sites typically accommodate 1-3 tents, making them ideal for solo hikers or small groups rather than large camping parties.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Walnutport (35)
1. Mauch Chunk Lake Park
"Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone."
"Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
2. AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap
"You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky."
3. AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap
"The only downside was my sleeping pad sprung a leak, so it wasn't the best night's sleep. But the site itself was great and I would camp there again."
"A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."
4. George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter
"A single-level open-sided AT shelter near the Lehigh Gap trailhead. The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers."
5. AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap
"This site is really 2 separate sites that are a short ways apart along the trail. They are both excellent spots to set up a tent if you plan on camping up on the ridge."
6. Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite (group)
"This site appears to be well-used and has several established areas for sitting and setting up a fire."
7. Riverview Park Campground
"The sites are each tent only and located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit. They also have a bathroom facility up alongside the road."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $30 / night
8. Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground
9. AT/Bypass Trail Split Primitive Campground
10. Scrub Mountain Retreat
from $30 - $35 / night
Drive Time
- 22 min from Allentown, PA
- 56 min from Scranton, PA
- 1 hr from Reading, PA
- 1 hr 14 min from Lebanon, PA
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Walnutport, PA
63 Photos of 35 Walnutport Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
BMR Operations, LLC dba Blue Mountain Resort By: BM Resort Management, LLC its Authorized Agent
Mauch Chunk Lake Park
Scrub Mountain Retreat
Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center
Rolling Hills RetreatsA
Kirkrige Shelter / Kittatinny Mountain — Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms
Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park
Walter's Boat In Campsites — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Wooded Campground
Camp Mohican Outdoor Center — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Evansburg State Park Campground
Tent Camping Reviews near Walnutport, PA
1101 Reviews of 35 Walnutport Campgrounds
- RRussell A.
Scout100 Mile View Camping
What a great place. So unique! Love the view, and a great experience! There are no hook ups, so be prepared but if you are looking for the dispersed camping experience you have found it. What a gem!
Nancy W.
LegendHickory Run State Park Campground
Peaceful State Park Camping in the Fall
This is a large campground with a wide array of campsites so be careful attention when you book online, especially if you have a pet because some sites are not pet-friendly. Some are 50-amp full hook-up and some are primitive with no hook-ups.
There is a nice nature center with interesting interpretive exhibits and lots of informational brochures including ones about the hiking trails, bears, scat and tracks of local animals, and fishing. Our site was at the edge of the campground and backed up to Route 534 which resulted in a bit of road noise at our site. Other than the road noise the campground was pretty quiet and was not very crowded when we camped there in October.
Not all sites are level and we happened to book one that was not and we had to live with a slant for our stay. The roads in the park are gravel/dirt and since it rained the day we arrived the roads were a muddy mess which made the roads slippery and there were lots of potholes. Unfortunately, some campers were disrespectful and left bags of trash in the fire pit and scattered around their site which was totally unnecessary because there were dumpsters plenty of dumpsters in the campground. Since we camped at Hickory Run late in the season, there were no camp hosts and the trash never got picked up.
The campground is open from mid-April to mid-December; however, the shower facilities and dump station are not available after the third week of October so plan accordingly. We really like the hiking trails which are of varying degrees of difficulty and lengths. The Hawk Falls is a nice easy walk (1.4 miles round-trip) to a waterfall but is extremely popular so don’t think you will be admiring the falls alone. The parking lot at this trail head fills up fast so you better get there early if you want to get a spot.
You can enter the park from two different directions. If you have a big-rig, it is best to approach from the east side. We made the mistake of coming in from the west side as we dropped down from I-80 and came down 534 and the road was really windy with no shoulder. Luckily, there was very little traffic so we could go 10 mph and safely navigate the roads.
Be aware alcohol is not allowed in PA state parks. This park does allow hunting in certain sections of the park. The no-hunting areas are clearly marked with white no hunting signs on trees and you can also pick up a brochure from the office that designates hunting and no-hunting sections.
Stuart K.LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
Tony F.
Guide100 Mile View Camping
The best views
This is a hidden gem, as close to dispersed camping you can get with dirt, gravel roads, large stone fire pits, a amazing views with the added benefit of a five gallon jug of non potable water and very clean port-a-potties. The owner regularly patrols the site and makes sure everything is okay.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
- jjeanne A.Guide
Council Cup Campground
Better than nothing
Small campground with rude owner. Everything I asked about was putting her out. It was cheap though at $36 for water and electric with a military discount.
- jjeanne A.Guide
Echo Valley Campground
Big sites with lots of trees
We only spent the night and didn't look at the amenities. The manager was very friendly and accommodating.
Thomas B.
RangerTohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
Guide to Walnutport
Tent camping near Walnutport, Pennsylvania centers around the Lehigh Gap area, where the Appalachian Trail crosses the Lehigh River at an elevation of 900 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Several campgrounds offer access to the Lehigh River and connecting trails with varying levels of amenities and privacy options.
What to do
Water activities: lake and river: Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides both swimming and paddling opportunities. One camper noted, "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" while another shared, "I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."
Hiking: access multiple trails: Riverview Park Campground sites sit adjacent to the D&L Trail, a converted railroad bed. "The park itself is located along the D&L biking trail that is on the bed of an old railroad," according to one visitor who appreciated the convenience.
Local exploration: Jim Thorpe area: Mauch Chunk Lake Park serves as a base for exploring nearby Jim Thorpe. A camper shared, "You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars."
What campers like
Riverside camping: prime locations: Some sites at Riverview Park offer direct river access. "The sites are each tent only and located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit," making them convenient for paddlers.
Pine forest setting: natural padding: AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap provides comfort for tent campers. One backpacker observed, "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."
Group-friendly sites: spacious options: Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite accommodates multiple tents. A camper described it as "A very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group."
What you should know
Weather considerations: prepare for rain: Some sites can become waterlogged after storms. At Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground, a camper reported, "When I was here it had recently rained and the site was overall pretty boggy...without a good ground tarp, you might get a little wet."
Water availability: plan ahead: Most primitive sites require carrying or filtering water. One hiker at AT Overlook Campground advised, "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge."
Weekend crowds: expect company: Mauch Chunk Lake Park gets busy during peak times. A visitor cautioned, "We visited in the summer on a weekend when it was full. The campsites are too close to each other and we were surrounded by very loud campers."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly option: Mauch Chunk: First-time campers can ease into tent camping at established sites. "I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do," shared one experienced camper.
Activity variety: keep kids busy: Recreational facilities add value for families with children. One visitor mentioned, "The campgrounds were nice and there was a lot to do. Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals."
Site selection: watch for terrain: AT/Bypass Trail Split Primitive Campground offers grassy sites that might work better for families than rocky areas. A hiker described it as "a small grassy primitive camping site" that's less developed than other options.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only areas: know limitations: Many sites in the region cater specifically to tent campers. For example, Riverview Park Campground specifies "The sites are each tent only" with basic amenities not suitable for RVs.
Access challenges: road conditions: Reaching some campgrounds requires navigating narrow roads. Sites along the Appalachian Trail are typically accessible only by foot with parking at designated trailheads.
Alternative options: nearby RV sites: Tent campers at Mauch Chunk Lake Park should note that some areas accommodate RVs. One visitor observed, "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Walnutport, PA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Walnutport, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Walnutport, PA is Mauch Chunk Lake Park with a 4-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Walnutport, PA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Walnutport, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 35 tent camping locations near Walnutport, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring