The Delaware Water Gap region provides the primary backdrop for camping spots near Wind Gap, Pennsylvania. Located in the eastern Pocono Mountains at 600-1,000 feet above sea level, the area contains diverse terrain from rolling hills to rocky outcroppings. Temperatures typically range 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby cities, with nighttime lows dropping into the 50s even during summer months. Autumn brings frost by mid-October, affecting camping conditions in unheated accommodations.
What to do
Hike to the wolf preserve: Camp Taylor Campground offers direct access to the Lakota Wolf Preserve with discounted tours for campers. "You can take a short hike up the mountain there to see the wolves in the sanctuary. There are moments by the fire you can hear them howl in the distance. It's one of our favorite places to camp," notes Julie F. from Camp Taylor Campground.
Boulder Field exploration: The unusual geological formation at Hickory Run State Park attracts visitors year-round. "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," says Amber A. from Hickory Run State Park Campground.
Water activities on the Delaware: Multiple access points allow for kayaking, canoeing and fishing. "Our campsite was located along the Delaware river with a short walk down to be able to launch our canoe and kayak. The water is rather warm and swimming was enjoyable," shares Mitchell E. from Worthington State Forest.
What campers like
Campsite privacy: Many campsites offer secluded spots among the trees. "Sites are nice and large, can hold multiple tents. They request the purchase of another site if you have more then two tents, but then you can put all tents on one site and cook and hang out in the other. We have a beautiful site along the creek, perfect white noise to get a great night sleep," explains Karralee B. from Camp Taylor Campground.
Variety of accommodation options: From primitive sites to full hookups. "We did tent camping for the weekend and we had a blast. The camping site we originally had booked was rather small, the front desk was cordial and able to accommodate us by moving us to a bigger site. We had running water and an electric outlet," says Cecilia M. from Camp Taylor.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas at many campgrounds receive positive reviews. "The bathrooms/showers are clean and well maintained. The small mini-golf course is a fun distraction for a bit. There are great trails to hike to right from the campground as well as the Wolf Preserve," adds Kathy G. from Camp Taylor.
What you should know
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds experience issues with quiet hour enforcement. "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," advises Adeline M. from Worthington State Forest.
Wildlife concerns: Bear activity requires proper food storage at many sites. "We heard about some bear incidents here recently but we didn't encounter any or any evidence of them," reports Harry H. from Worthington State Forest Campground.
Site selection matters: Terrain and campsite layout vary significantly. "The campground had many different types of sites. Some were big and socially distanced like the one we had. But some were extremely small and very close to the next camper. Some were in the woods and some were practically on the main road," warns Carol N. from Delaware Water Gap KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's programming. "My daughter and I have made Camp Taylor our annual spot for the past 4-5 years and it just keeps getting better. Hiking to the Wolf Preserve, paddleboats, mini golf, swimming in the lake... There are so many things to do, and they keep all of the facilities updated and in great shape," says Dan B. from Camp Taylor.
Playgrounds and open spaces: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. "A nice playground with ample room for the kids. The sites were large and secluded but grassy and a bit uneven and it seemed to be like this across the board," describes Jim G. from Driftstone Campground.
Swimming options: Pools and natural swimming areas provide cooling options during summer. "It would be very difficult to be bored at Driftstone-- games, activities, swimming, boating, plenty of open field for the kids. It is a very family-friendly campground where the staff and other campers are very personable," adds Jim G.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Sites are dirt/grass and are not level, but they are long which makes up for the front to back level issue," explains Bret N. from Pocono Vacation Park.
Dump station locations: Limited sewer hookups at some campgrounds requires planning. "No sewer hookups and the dump station is difficult to get in and out with larger rigs," notes Jim G. from Delaware Water Gap KOA.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "PLEASE NOTE: if you are towing or have a motorhome, make sure you follow the directions on the website. Coming in from the wrong road could lead you to a hairpin turn and steep hill," warns Jim G. from Driftstone Campground.
