Tent campsites near Wyoming, Pennsylvania range from riverside locations to scenic mountain ridges. The region contains primitive backcountry sites across diverse elevation zones, with most areas accessible via hiking trails connecting to larger systems including the Appalachian Trail. Camping opportunities extend throughout Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Carbon counties, with public land options in state forests and along protected corridors.
What to do
Water activities at Mauch Chunk Lake Park: The lake offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming during summer months. According to Lisa S., "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. You are in beautiful Jim Thorpe that has white water rafting in town, plus great restaurants and bars."
Whitewater rafting on Lehigh River: Several outfitters operate within 30 minutes of Wyoming. Whitewater Challengers Adventure Center provides equipment and guided trips. Emma T. mentioned their "Riverfest and it was great. Bands throughout the night with beer and food. Nice showers."
Hiking near ridge campsites: The Appalachian Trail section near Lehigh Gap offers day hikes with valley views. A camper at AT Overlook Campground notes, "You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky." Wildlife sightings include wild turkeys and bears.
What campers like
Stone fire rings and established sites: Many ridge locations feature well-constructed campfire areas. At AT Ridge Campground, each site has "a stone fire ring and plenty of room for multiple tents. They are surrounded by a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail."
Waterfront camping options: Lakeside sites allow direct water access. According to a camper at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, "I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear."
Spacious campsites with natural features: Many locations offer adequate space between sites. Heather T. describes Oh! Pear Orchards as having "spacious & lovely sites...next to a beautiful stream, the best fire pits, quiet and peaceful, just enough shade to stay cool, magical setting, firewood easily accessible, close to state parks and lots of wide, open undeveloped space."
What you should know
Water sources vary by location: Ridge campsites typically require carrying water. A camper at AT Overlook Campground warns to "be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge."
Insects and wildlife considerations: Ticks are common in warmer months. According to a visitor at Manny Gordon Recreation Area Campground, "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."
Weekend crowding at established campgrounds: Popular sites fill quickly during summer weekends. One visitor to Mauch Chunk Lake Park reported, "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."
AT shelters versus tent sites: For backpackers, both shelter and tent options exist. At George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter, "The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers. There is also a spring nearby for filling up water. If you are planning on tent camping there isn't really any flat area to set up around the shelter."
Tips for camping with families
Consider weekday visits for quieter experience: Weekends attract larger groups and increased noise levels. One Mauch Chunk Lake visitor mentioned, "If you go during the week, it's quite calm."
Beginner-friendly campgrounds with amenities: Some locations work well for camping novices. According to Mackenzie B., Mauch Chunk Lake Park 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."
First camping experiences: The best tent camping near Wyoming, Pennsylvania for families includes sites with water activities. A first-timer at Mauch Chunk shared, "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."
Accessible recreation options: Many campgrounds offer multiple activities within walking distance. A visitor noted that Mauch Chunk has "Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals. Also a lot to do in the nearby town."
Tips from RVers
Site terrain considerations: Tree roots and rocks can make setup challenging at some locations. An RVer at Mauch Chunk Lake Park advised, "Many sites have exposed tree roots and rocks, recommend extra padding for tenters. Plenty of space away from neighbors."
Walk-in requirements: Some sites require gear transport from parking areas. At Scrub Mountain Retreat, tent sites are accessed via short trails. Similarly, at Oh! Pear Orchards, "It is a short walk in to the sites, but there is a cart provided which made it pretty easy. The hosts also offer valet service to your site."
Alternatives to tent camping: For those seeking more comfort, cabin options exist at select locations. Hillside Campgrounds offers both tent sites and cabins, though with specific clientele restrictions as one visitor noted, "This is a men's only campground where they have different themes on weekends."
