Camping near Weatherly, Pennsylvania offers several distinct environments from secluded forest settings to lakeside options, with elevations varying between 800-1,300 feet throughout the region. The area features numerous small creeks and waterways feeding into larger lakes and the Lehigh River, creating diverse fishing opportunities across different water systems. Fall temperatures often drop into the 40s overnight while maintaining comfortable 60s during daytime hours.
What to do
Boulder field exploration: Just a short drive from Hickory Run State Park Campground, visitors can experience the unusual boulder field formation. One camper noted, "Boulders everywhere! Big ones, small ones, run (carefully) across them all! Beyond the Boulder field is a vast, scary, unknown."
Kayaking on Mauch Chunk Lake: Launch directly from waterfront campsites at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, providing easy water access. "I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," reports a regular visitor who enjoys the calm weekday water conditions.
Hiking varied terrain: The region offers trails ranging from creek-side paths to mountain climbs. At Locust Lake State Park Campground, campers appreciate the diverse trail system. "Some camp sites are along the lake or along the small creek, all are very wooded. There are some very nice trails here and a lot to do on the water," shares one visitor.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: Many campers value the ability to wade into streams during summer heat. At Tuscarora State Park Campground, "You can fish, swim and just relax! Pets allowed and don't have to be on a leash. Campsites are not even any where near each other. It's like you have the whole forest to yourself!"
Modern bathhouse facilities: Clean, updated facilities matter to campers, especially at sites like Jim Thorpe Camping Resort. "The bath houses were really clean. The only reason I'm giving this 4 stars is cause the spots were a little tight," mentions one reviewer who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Camp store convenience: Several campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores for forgotten items. Hickory Run State Park earns praise for its "great camp store, dog friendly loop, great hikes accessible from campground!!" Another camper adds that the store is "stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require leveling equipment due to uneven terrain. A camper at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort noted, "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right. After that... we had the best time!!"
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer spacious sites while others pack RVs close together. At 100 Mile View Camping, campers enjoy "Wonderful eastern views of the valley below. Paved road and hard packed gravel for a short distance to get to the camp site."
Bear awareness required: The Weatherly area has significant bear populations. At Hickory Run, "we were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings." Campers should secure food in vehicles or hard-sided campers when not in use.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with young children appreciate campgrounds with play areas. Tuscarora State Park offers "a playground for kids to play in that is well maintained" according to visitor reports.
Swimming options: Several parks have designated swimming areas ideal for families. Locust Lake State Park Campground includes "a lake for swimming" and "a paved walking path all around the lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach," making it popular for multi-family trips.
Educational opportunities: Stonybrook RV Resort provides a convenient base for exploring regional attractions. "This campground makes a great home-base while hanging out in the Pocono Mountains," notes one visitor, with another adding that the "proximity to outdoor recreation contributes significantly to the camping experience."
Tips from RVers
Entry challenges: Several parks have steep or narrow access roads. At Stonybrook RV Resort, one RVer observed, "The entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn't easy in a 45' motorhome towing a Jeep."
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited in state parks but available at private campgrounds. Locust Lake gets mixed reviews on this front: "No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites," which affects longer stays.
Check site dimensions carefully: Campgrounds often list RV sites that may not accommodate larger rigs. One camper warns about state parks in the region: "Beware: these sites are not travel trailer friendly... Trees were growing up in all the sites that were available and most of the ones without trees in the way were pointing in the wrong direction for backing into."
