187 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Northeastern Pennsylvania's landscape around Waverly provides diverse camping experiences within a short drive, from state parks to private resorts. Lackawanna State Park Campground, just minutes from Waverly, offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and yurts around a 198-acre lake. Within a 30-minute radius, campers can access Keen Lake Resort Campground in Waymart with lakeside sites and full amenities, or Frances Slocum State Park Campground near Wyoming with more rustic accommodations. The region's camping options extend into the Pocono Mountains to the southeast, where Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park feature additional lakeside camping with varying levels of development and privacy.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with limited year-round options like Cozy Creek Family Campground in Tunkhannock. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with many state parks having minimal coverage. As one camper at Worlds End State Park noted, "We had zero cell service, but firewood was available on the honor system with trail maps conveniently located nearby." Pennsylvania state parks enforce strict quiet hours (typically 9pm-8am) and many prohibit alcohol consumption. Ticks and mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, particularly near lakes and streams. Campers should prepare for variable weather conditions, as the region experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially in spring and fall.
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with lakeside sites at Keen Lake Resort being particularly popular. "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," reported one satisfied camper. Site privacy varies considerably between campgrounds and even within different loops of the same park. Frances Slocum State Park features "large, wooded sites, good bathhouse, nice trails close by," according to one reviewer, while others mention that Tobyhanna State Park has sites that are "too close together" despite beautiful scenery. Fall foliage season draws significant crowds, with one camper describing the experience as "breathtaking views from nearby trails" with "being able to wake up lakeside up in the mountain" as a treasured experience.
"The sites were a little close to each other and where we were in the park was a mixed use area. So we had an RV next to us with the Genny running all day."
"The main reason we didn't do more was the distance. We have a motorhome so we didn't have additional vehicles to get to and from places."
from $20 - $79 / night
Check Availability"I stayed on a lakeside electric/water site for 5 nights in August 2020. It was SO BEAUTIFUL. We had SUPs and kayaks to take on the lake and our sites were right next to the boat launch. "
"We didn’t have a view of the lake, instead we were in someone’s back yard lol. It wasn’t a big deal. The site was well maintained and flat which were the most important."
"Was also an easy back in site as there’s an adjacent road (to parking and the amphitheater) right in front of it. All sites only have electric and only certain allow pets."
"Large, wooded sites, good bathhouse, nice trails close by. A little highway noise, but dark and quiet at night. Very peaceful place."
from $20 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Campground is based around kids, there’s a lot for them to do!"
from $17 / night
Check Availability"This campground was very nice and had so much hiking in and around it. They were very helpful with getting us a site since it was so last minute on a holiday weekend Will be visiting again"
from $0 - $17 / night
Check Availability"The biggest draw to this state park (which no one in Pennsylvania I spoke with seemed to know about) is the 22 waterfalls!"
"Many of the sites looked close to the road and not very private but we were in site 63 which was pretty private(though we were lucky neighboring site 62 was empty)."
from $20 - $92 / night
Check Availability"Great location lots of hiking trails right in the park and many more close by"
"Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground. "
from $20 - $72 / night
Check Availability"We were looking for a lakeside campground with a spacious campsite that could comfortably fit two large tents and two vehicles."
"Breathtaking views from nearby trails and nearby Big Pocono State Park. The park staff were very helpful and knowledgeable about nearby trails and best places to get the most out of the views!"
from $20 - $43 / night
Check Availability"Pros: beautiful new bathrooms -private lakeside walk-in sites -beavers! Far away but exciting nonetheless -the Conservation Walk on the island is short, easy, and beautiful. Well-marked."
"Some sites are right on the lake, just put the kayak on the shore, and you're ready for an early morning paddle."
from $24 - $53 / night
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RangerGorgeous forested area in the Poconos. We stayed on the Rattlesnake Loop which was lovely. Sites not super private but most nestled in trees. The only bummer was that that Campground Loop didn’t have any direct links to the trail network and was far from it. The other Campground Loop was closer to trails and office. Would return!
LegendJust a few others here so it is quite peaceful. A one mile walk gets you to the lake. They have a covered pavilion with plenty of picnic tables. My site is large with plenty of trees providing shade. The outhouse is a bit of a walk. Garbage cans are inside it. I haven’t seen a water source but it might be around.
RangerWe stayed here during a road trip from CT to WA and back. This was our first dispersed campsites of the trip and we really enjoyed it here. We camped in our van, and we were impressed that there were 2 bathrooms at the camp and more porta potties by the lake. Enjoyed hiking with our pups in this pretty area, and found some geocaches too!
RangerWe camped here in our pop up for our Anniversary in November. We were impressed with the cleanliness and available amenities for the time of year we were camping in! Close proximity to DWG and PA AND NJ attractions.
RangerWe booked a cabin at the last minute and were pleasantly surprised that the cabin had heat and electricity! It was very close to the awesome heated bathroom also! We were also able to catch a beautiful sunset! Great camp all around!
TravelerAnother great experience. Sites were large. Staff was friendly with many different things for kids to do. Great base camp for local hikes.
RangerWe came here 4th of July weekend, and this is one of the things I love about these sites...they had availability! Our site was very big, and was perfect with sone shade and also lots of sun!
RangerOur travel trailer and our friends' pop up both fit on this site with no problem. The only issue we had is that there is a bit of a ditch that turns to mud after a rain. We were off the beaten path so very little traffic. There was a bathroom with pit toilets down the street. Plenty of places to hike and fish also. We loved it here!
RangerWe came here to ride our ATV's...since it is more than 3 hours from home, we decided to book this spot for the night. We have stayed in a bunch of the DWSF sites. This one was kinda meh. Nearer to the road so traffic at all hours. Picnic table and fire ring, and as always, evidence of people chopping down live trees for firewood. Ugh! We set up our tent and had a nice fire, albeit there was broken glass on the ground. Biting flies worked overtime on us. Not a terrible stay, but we prolly won't book this one again. And these sites are no longer free. As out of state-rs, we paid $21 for one night. Still a good deal.
Campgrounds surrounding Waverly, Pennsylvania provide a mix of recreational facilities in wooded settings. Lackawanna State Park Campground, located 10 miles north of Scranton, offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, yurts, and glamping options within a forested environment alongside a lake. Other nearby options include Highland Campgrounds in Dalton and Cozy Creek Family Campground in Tunkhannock, both offering cabin camping alongside traditional tent and RV sites. The Pennsylvania state parks in the region, including Ricketts Glen and Frances Slocum, maintain developed campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and natural settings.
The camping season in northeastern Pennsylvania typically runs from April through October, with most state parks opening the second Friday in April and closing the third Sunday in October. Private campgrounds like Highland and Cozy Creek offer longer seasons, with some remaining open year-round. "This is a really nice state park. Stayed just one night, but the campsites were in the woods and well separated," noted one visitor about Lackawanna State Park. Site selection varies by park, with some offering spacious, shaded sites while others place campsites closer together. Most campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Cell service is generally available throughout the region, though coverage may vary in more remote areas.
Campers consistently highlight the wooded settings and lake access available at several parks. Lackawanna State Park features hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and boat rentals, making it popular for families. One camper reported, "The tent sites are right on the creek" at Cozy Creek Family Campground, emphasizing the appeal of waterfront camping. Many campgrounds provide a mix of full hookup sites for RVs alongside more primitive options for tent campers. Several reviews mention clean facilities and well-maintained grounds as standout features. The proximity to lakes and creeks remains a significant draw, with fishing and swimming available at many locations. While some sites offer significant privacy in wooded settings, others may have less separation between camping areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Waverly campgrounds?
Campgrounds near Waverly offer diverse amenities to suit different camping styles. Mount Pocono Campground features extensive facilities including a huge swimming pool, toddler pool, and on-site store. Pine Cradle Lake Family Campground is a gated property with water and electric hookups even at some tent sites. Many state park campgrounds provide basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. Boat-in sites such as Tom's Creek offer more primitive camping experiences with fewer facilities. Private campgrounds typically provide more amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and recreational activities, while public campgrounds focus on natural features and basic necessities.
Where are the best campgrounds in Waverly?
The Waverly area offers excellent camping options within driving distance. Worlds End State Park Campground stands out with beautiful trails, amazing views, and access to Loyalsock Creek. For a unique experience, Namanock Island — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers island camping maintained by the National Park Service. Other notable options include Salt Springs State Park Campground, Ricketts Glen State Park with its 22 waterfalls, and Lackawanna State Park Campground for those seeking a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities.
When is the best time of year to camp in Waverly?
The prime camping season in the Waverly area runs from late spring through early fall. Worthington State Forest Campground offers beautiful riverside camping that's particularly enjoyable in mid-October when fall colors transform the landscape. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground is excellent for early fall camping when the waterfalls are framed by colorful foliage. Summer months provide warm temperatures ideal for water activities, while spring offers wildflowers and fewer crowds. Many campgrounds in the region are seasonal, typically operating from April through October, with some facilities closing earlier in fall depending on weather conditions.
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