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."
