Best Campgrounds near Wilkes-Barre, PA

Northeastern Pennsylvania offers multiple camping options within a short drive of Wilkes-Barre, with both state parks and private facilities providing accommodations for various camping styles. Frances Slocum State Park Campground, located in Wyoming, PA, features electric hookups, shower facilities, and accommodates both tent and RV camping. Other nearby options include Ricketts Glen State Park Campground with year-round availability, Tobyhanna State Park about 30 miles east, and several smaller facilities like Moon Lake Recreation Area in the Pinchot State Forest, which provides more primitive camping experiences.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with Ricketts Glen being a notable exception offering year-round access. Electric hookups are standard at most established sites, though water hookups vary by location. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for summer weekends when facilities reach capacity. Several campgrounds feature lakefront access, making them popular destinations during warmer months. A camper noted, "Cleanest campground I have been to. Great in-between spot to Worlds End State Park and Ricketts Glen."

The camping experience around Wilkes-Barre balances natural settings with reasonable access to services. State park campgrounds typically offer well-maintained facilities with clean bathhouses, while more primitive options exist at locations like Moon Lake Recreation Area, which previously offered free camping but now charges a nominal fee. Many campgrounds feature water recreation opportunities, with several sites situated near lakes allowing for fishing, boating, and kayaking. As one visitor described Frances Slocum State Park, "The park has great hiking spots, a local pool, and a lake that you can rent boats or kayak on." Sites vary in size and privacy, with some campgrounds receiving feedback about being crowded during peak season while others offer more secluded options with adequate space between campsites.

Best Camping Sites Near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (185)

    1. Hickory Run State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Albrightsville, PA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (272) 808-6192

    $24 - $95 / night

    "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.   "

    2. Frances Slocum State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Shavertown, PA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 696-3525

    $24 - $48 / night

    "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."

    3. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground

    68 Reviews
    Sweet Valley, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 477-5675

    $24 - $150 / night

    "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)."

    4. Moon Lake Recreation Area Campground — Pinchot State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Hunlock Creek, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 945-7133

    $10 / night

    "There is no electric or water hookup but the trails are nice, it's quiet, and there's a lake to fish. There's also swimming down the Rd at a nearby creek."

    "Absolutely love Moon Lake. Place has some of the best mountain bike trails in northeast pa. Camping is primitive but has spots big enough for RVs. Also. It’s free!"

    5. Tobyhanna State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Tobyhanna, PA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 894-8336

    $24 - $43 / night

    "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!"

    "Scenic state park with a lake. You can swim in the lake in the summer or do a 5-mile hike around the lake along well-marked walk paths. There are at least two parking lots(no parking fees)."

    6. Lackawanna State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Fleetville, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 945-3239

    $24 - $79 / night

    "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."

    "Campground has cabins and yurts, pull in sites for RV’s and strictly walk in tent sites. There is a beautiful lake and a very large pool."

    7. Lehigh Gorge Campground

    3 Reviews
    White Haven, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 443-9191

    "Bathrooms were close by and as clean as you can expect when camping. I’d certainly go back."

    "We are in a transient site which doesn't have much shade and it is close to the main road (although separated by some trees and brush).   The campers and campground are very quiet. "

    8. Highland Campgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Factoryville, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 586-0145

    $0 - $17 / night

    "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"

    9. Moyers Grove Campground

    5 Reviews
    Conyngham, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (570) 379-3375

    "The campsites were clean, adequately spaced and many positioned along side a creek.  The bathhouse (hooray) was great. Recently renovated, they were extremely, clean and dry."

    "There are 3 resident geese who wander around near the creek and lakes.  It was too cool to use the pool while we were visiting but it was clean and well cared-for. "

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Recent Reviews near Wilkes-Barre, PA

858 Reviews of 185 Wilkes-Barre Campgrounds


  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Two stars for pretty trees

    We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Called the office, they told us what other sites were available and we tried every one. Only one was remotely suitable for a travel trailer and we had to drive the wrong way through the loop to be at the right angle to even try backing it in. No luck. I’m honestly shocked that they label some of these sites as RV friendly because wow. We left and had to find other accommodations. Trying to get a refund and currently navigating their phone system/trying to get a refund. Three phone conversations later and I’ll have to call another number on Monday to get the right person to issue the refund. We’ve never stayed at PA parks before but if they’re all like this, then it makes it really hard to plan when some sites are fine for trailers and some aren’t even close. Just heads up.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2025

    Clayton Park RV Escape

    Top Notch

    A well run, well staffed, facilities are excellent. Will return

  • c
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Salt Springs State Park Campground

    Worked for me

    I stayed in late September in one of the drive in spots. There were no other campers bc of the season- and it’s mid week. I love this park and it’s close to my house so I just wanted to crash there and wake up early to hike. It was quiet all night. The bathrooms are very far from tne sites and it was visible where some people had relieved themselves in the bushes. There is no potable water anywhere so bring some. I enjoyed it but during the on season or busy times tnere is zero privacy between sites other than sites 13 and 14. Def wouldn’t stay here during summer for that reason.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Stonybrook RV Resort

    This is a great place!

    We spent four nights at Stonybrook RV Resort in Lehighton, PA, for a quiet wedding anniversary getaway— and so glad we did. We paid$150 per night total for a FHU 50 Amp Premium Back-in site (#F20). This campground makes a great home-base while hanging out in the Pocono Mountains. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • This place is in super condition— everything works as it’s supposed to and is clean and maintained 
    • The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup 
    • Our site(F20) is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped 
    • We interacted with 5 members of their staff and all were welcoming and friendly to talk with 
    • There’s a heated pool behind the office/store so it’s not noisy for campers at their sites 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Just one thing— 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. This may be nitpicky— and I’m not complaining about it— just letting you know to expect it on arrival. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a great campground(I’ve already recommended it to my Newmar Kountry Klub chapter president as a possible site for a future rally).
  • Kylie R.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Mountain Vista Campground

    A mix of being able to unplug but also have the ammenities avavilble if wanted/needed

    This campground is very clean, staff and campers are very friendly. It’s a great spot if you have kids because they have many different activities(pool/arcade games/movie nights/ and more.)

  • j
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Cranberry Run Campground

    Don’t Stay here!!

    It’s not a campground. It’s where people stash their rvs, some of whom seem to live here permanently. Caretaker was rude. Sites were all rocky and many on steep inclines. Complete waste of our time. Plus, the site looks nothing like the pictures they post, which is an area you can’t camp at. Don’t stay here.

  • Lynsey M.
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Salt Springs State Park Campground

    Adventures!

    3 couples all ventured to Salt Springs and split the largest cabin for a few days. We electricity from a few outlets in the cabin if needed. Let me tell you that we spent very little time inside. We enjoyed the trials, waterfalls, and firepit cooked meals outside! Hemlock Grove, Penny Rock, and the saltspring kept us entertained! We cooled off under a waterfall :) I'm looking forward to visiting again! Bring some hotdogs/burgers for a yummy meal after a good day in PA!

  • b
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Thunder Swamp Trailhead

    Gravel lot

    It’s a gravel parking lot. Plenty of shade. No one bothered me.

  • Adeline M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Worthington State Forest Campground — Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

    Nice campground loud campers

    Great open spot with some shade, depending on when you go we have noticed there tends to be a lot of loud disrespectful people who are there to party not camp. It’s nice to be on the Delaware and not many campgrounds have water access or a boat ramp so that’s a plus. Showers, sinks, and toilets are available.


Guide to Wilkes-Barre

Camping near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania offers access to the forested ridges of the Pocono Mountains and valleys of northeastern Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 500 to 2,000 feet. The region receives approximately 46 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush woodland environments with diverse wildlife. Most campgrounds in the area are situated within 30-45 minutes of Wilkes-Barre, providing convenient access while maintaining a natural setting.

What to do

Boulder field exploration: At Hickory Run State Park, visitors can explore the 16-acre boulder field, a National Natural Landmark formed during the last ice age. A camper noted, "The Boulder Fields are one of the coolest places I've ever visited, partially because they were so unexpected. Don't twist an ankle, but you can play hide and seek to an extent as there are small depressions in the fields."

Lake activities: Most campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities beyond swimming. At Tobyhanna State Park Campground, the lake provides multiple activities. "The lake is very nice a little copper kind of like iced tea color but was very nice. They have a few hiking trails we didn't get to do, also have a horse shoe pit volleyball ball area and a little play area in the camping area," shares one visitor.

Waterfall hiking: The Falls Trail at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground features 22 named waterfalls ranging from 11 to 94 feet high. A camper described the experience: "The biggest draw to this state park is the 22 waterfalls! We saw 18 of them on a four-mile moderate hike, but if you want to see the additional four, you could make it a seven-mile hike. The trails are very well marked."

What campers like

Privacy variations: Site selection matters at Lackawanna State Park, where privacy levels vary significantly. A visitor explained, "Some are a little close to each other, but others offer plenty of space, including our site (52) on this trip. One of the biggest spots we have ever had."

Modern amenities: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers unexpected comfort with well-stocked facilities. One camper shared, "The camp store had good hours and is stocked to high heaven; you could come here with just the clothes on your back and buy everything you need for a very comfortable stay."

Budget-friendly options: Moon Lake Recreation Area Campground in Pinchot State Forest offers affordable camping with basic amenities. A camper noted, "Camping here used to be free but now they charge $10/night. There is no electric or water hookup but the trails are nice, it's quiet, and there's a lake to fish."

What you should know

Bear activity: Bears are common throughout the region, particularly at Tobyhanna State Park. One camper warned, "Just stayed 2 nights with my 7 yrs. old daughter we had a blast. Everyone was very nice camp host and DCNR were very helpful. We were warned at check in that there have been a lot of bears in the area but never really thought that we would see one. As soon as we got to our site one came right up as we were setting up our tent."

Site conditions vary: Some campsites at Frances Slocum State Park Campground have drainage issues after rain. A recent visitor cautioned, "The site we stayed on was a swamp! It was terrible, I called the park office and they assured me the site was fine for tents it was NOT. Plenty of other great sites but several butt up against standing water which is nasty."

Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. At Moyer's Grove Campground, a camper reported, "Be advised that there was no cell service or internet for AT&T users. (Verizon did have some service.) Also, there is no cable and our antennae was unable to pick up any TV channels."

Tips for camping with families

Playground options: Highland Campgrounds offers play areas with a nostalgic feel. A visitor mentioned, "Playground is also older but also gives off the vintage look with some of the older, older swings and sit spin."

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Moyers Grove Campground offers regular wildlife sightings for children. A camper shared, "We enjoyed our weekend stay at Moyer's Grove. The sites were a nice size and were well shaded. The campground was quiet and peaceful. We saw deer daily. There are 3 resident geese who wander around near the creek and lakes."

Educational resources: Tobyhanna State Park provides environmental learning opportunities. A visitor noted, "There is an environmental education center with programs, there is fishing and boating, and an amazing network of hiking and horse riding trails."

Tips for RVers

Water hookup preparation: At some campgrounds, the water spigot location can be challenging. At Moyers Grove, one RVer advised, "Make sure you have a LONG water hose. We actually had to buy a 50 foot hose in the camp store to accommodate the distance to the spigot."

Electrical system issues: Some campgrounds have aging electrical infrastructure. At Lackawanna State Park Campground, a camper reported, "Two electric hookups would trip the 50 amp circuit breaker on any load about 30 amps, which means the hookups are old and unmaintained."

Site dimensions: Several campgrounds offer varying site sizes and layouts. At Tobyhanna State Park, an RVer observed, "Just finished up two nights in site 123. These sites are RIGHT AGAINST THE ROAD. Other state parks tend to make their sites deep, whereas these are wide."

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Wilkes-Barre, PA?

Several excellent campgrounds are located within an hour of Wilkes-Barre. Ricketts Glen State Park Campground offers well-maintained sites and access to 22 spectacular waterfalls along well-marked trails. It's ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Worlds End State Park Campground provides beautiful campsites with access to hiking trails featuring amazing views, a beach area, and Loyalsock Creek, though some sites are close to the main road. Other notable options include Hickory Run State Park, Salt Springs State Park, and Lackawanna State Park. Most state park campgrounds in the area offer basic amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and bathroom facilities, with varying levels of privacy between sites.

Are there any lakeside camping options near Wilkes-Barre?

Yes, several lakeside camping options exist near Wilkes-Barre. Tobyhanna State Park Campground offers campsites near a 170-acre lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. Lackawanna State Park Campground features sites near a 198-acre lake with a swimming pool and boat rentals available. Both parks provide opportunities for water recreation while camping. Moon Lake Recreation Area in Pinchot State Forest is another option with lakeside camping. These destinations typically offer both tent and RV sites, though amenities vary by location. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months when lakeside sites fill quickly.

Where can I find good fishing spots with camping near Wilkes-Barre?

The Wilkes-Barre area offers several excellent fishing and camping combinations. Worthington State Forest Campground provides camping along the Delaware River with excellent fishing access—some sites even have direct paths to the water. Tom's Creek Boat In Campsites in the Delaware Water Gap offers unique boat-in only camping with good fishing opportunities, managed by the National Park Service. Many nearby state parks also offer fishing and camping, including Ricketts Glen (trout and warmwater species) and Promised Land State Park. The best fishing seasons are typically spring and fall, though summer offers good early morning and evening fishing. Most locations require a Pennsylvania fishing license.

Are there campgrounds near Wilkes-Barre that offer permanent camping sites?

Several private campgrounds near Wilkes-Barre offer seasonal or long-term camping options. Mount Pocono Campground provides seasonal options with numerous amenities including swimming pools and an on-site store, making it suitable for extended stays. Blue Rocks Family Campground also offers seasonal camping opportunities in a wooded setting near the Appalachian Trail. Unlike state parks which typically limit stays to 14 consecutive days, these private campgrounds can accommodate campers looking for longer-term arrangements. Seasonal sites generally require contracts and may have additional fees for utilities and amenities. Many permanent sites accommodate RVs rather than tents and often have more developed facilities like electric, water, and sewer hookups.