Top Free Dispersed Camping near Wilkes-Barre, PA

Camping near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "The trails are very well maintained. If you want to do the Falls Trail (21 beautiful waterfalls), it is quite challenging."
• Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip at Lake Jean, which is accessible from the campground. A visitor mentioned, "The lake felt clean and wasn't too cold in July."
• Fishing and Boating: At Pickerel Point Campground — Promised Land State Park, you can fish or rent kayaks. One camper noted, "The bathrooms are clean and overall a wonderful experience."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Hickory Run State Park Campground stated, "The bathroom facilities were clean, the hiking in the area was gorgeous."
• Privacy: Many sites offer a sense of seclusion. A camper at Frances Slocum State Park Campground said, "Sites are spaced out nice and ample size."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Keen Lake Resort Campground have activities for kids. One parent shared, "Activities all day long for the children."

What you should know

• Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in some areas. A visitor at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground mentioned, "There is absolutely no cell service."
• Busy Weekends: Popular campgrounds can get crowded on weekends. A reviewer noted, "It does get very busy on weekends so if you can stay during the week it's much nicer."
• Site Conditions: Some sites may not be level. A camper at Locust Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "206 Campsite unleveled, but plenty of room."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A review for Jim Thorpe Camping Resort said, "There are extremely nice bathrooms and a ton of things to do if you have children."
• Plan for Crowds: If you're camping in the summer, expect busy sites. One family shared, "The park was 99% empty and the tree frogs were amazing!" during their off-peak visit.
• Pack for Comfort: Bring comfortable shoes for hiking. A visitor at Ricketts Glen State Park Campground advised, "If you are going to visit all the falls, bring shoes that you can walk in."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Keen Lake Resort Campground noted, "The sites are average in size."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, check for sites with full hookups. A reviewer mentioned, "We had full hookups at our site."
• Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy. A visitor at Jim Thorpe Camping Resort said, "There was loud music and people yelling till 1 am."

Camping around Wilkes-Barre, PA, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!