Tent campsites near White Haven, Pennsylvania cluster along the Lehigh River corridor and surrounding state forest lands. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with steep terrain changes throughout the Pocono Mountains region. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Water activities on Mauch Chunk Lake: The lake at Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers multiple recreation options. "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," reports Emma T.
Whitewater rafting excursions: Combine camping with guided river adventures at Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center. "Rafting on the Lehigh with whitewater challengers was amazing," notes Katie S. The campground serves as a convenient base for scheduled rafting trips, with morning launches available May through October.
Appalachian Trail hiking: Access the AT directly from several primitive campsites near Lehigh Gap. At George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter, hikers can find "a spring nearby for filling up water" according to Asher K., making it a strategic water resupply point during multi-day treks on this section of trail.
What campers like
Riverside camping locations: Anglers and paddlers appreciate the direct water access from tent sites at Riverview Park Campground. "This is the perfect place for camping if you are adventuring out on the Lehigh River and want to get an early start or stay the night," writes Asher K., highlighting the convenience for water-based activities.
Protected forest campsites: The AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap offers natural shelter from weather. "A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area... The pine trees also provide a nice cover to make this a well-protected site in case of bad weather," according to Asher K.
Lakefront views: Many tent campers specifically request waterfront sites. "Note for next time: we will definitely be getting a lake front site for the awesome view!" shares Emma T. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Another camper, Lisa S., notes "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm."
What you should know
Campsite conditions vary significantly: Tent pads range from soft pine needle floors to rocky, uneven ground. At AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap, Asher K. describes "a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail."
Weekend noise levels: Several established campgrounds become busy during summer weekends. "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... It was not just 1 group; there were multiple parties making a lot of noise until after midnight," cautions Danielle F. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Wildlife concerns: Ticks require preventive measures in all area campgrounds. At Manny Gordon Recreation Area, camper Gavin S. advises "Very open, plenty of space. most campgrounds have previously stocked wood from other people, makes setting up very convenient. lots of ticks tho so get your spray."
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly campgrounds: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers amenities suitable for novice campers. "I've stayed here a couple times with groups. 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 on the campground and nearby," explains Mackenzie B.
Recreation facilities: Choose campgrounds with built-in activities for children. Danny M. shares that Mauch Chunk offers "Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals. Also a lot to do in the nearby town."
Bathroom access: Family camping often requires regular bathroom facilities. Campgrounds like Whitewater Challengers provide shower buildings, while primitive sites along the AT require proper waste management. Some campgrounds have "decent" bathroom facilities that are "generally clean" according to multiple reviews.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup availability: Most primitive tent camping areas near White Haven do not accommodate RVs. For those requiring electrical connections, water hookups, and dump stations, options are limited mainly to established campgrounds like Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Access road considerations: The steep mountain roads accessing many campsites present challenges for larger vehicles. Local forest roads often have tight turns, low clearances, and unpaved sections that require careful navigation in larger motorhomes or trailers.
