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sorcha A.
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TravelerShady Oak Campground
Easy access to Lancaster and Pennsylvania Dutch areas. Friendly, welcoming staff and plenty of colorful trees in the autumn. The only RV park in the area that is open year round.
Tent Camping near Youngsville, PA
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Pennsylvania's Appalachian Trail corridor provides several primitive tent camping options within reach of Youngsville, ranging from ridge-top tent campsites with panoramic views to lake-access sites with more facilities. Tent campsites near Youngsville span backcountry AT shelters and walk-in primitive sites to campgrounds with restrooms and lake access, giving campers a range of difficulty and comfort levels to choose from. The Lehigh Gap area features multiple tent campsites along the AT, including the George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter and several ridge-top primitive sites. Mauch Chunk Lake Park in Jim Thorpe offers established tent camping with more amenities for those seeking a less rustic experience. The Riverview Park Campground provides riverside tent sites with basic facilities for paddlers and hikers.
Most primitive tent campsites near Lehigh Gap are accessible only by foot, requiring hikers to pack in all supplies. Water availability varies significantly between locations, with some sites like George W. Outerbridge Shelter having nearby springs while ridge-top primitive campsites have no water access. Tent campers should prepare accordingly and fill water containers before ascending to higher elevations. Fire rings are present at most sites, though they vary from well-established stone rings at overlook campsites to more basic setups at less-visited locations. Sites typically accommodate 1-4 tents, with a few larger group areas available.
The ridge-top tent camping areas offer exceptional views and unique experiences. The AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap provides panoramic valley vistas directly from tent sites, with flat, relatively dry terrain for comfortable tent setup. Pine forest sites offer more protection from weather elements but sacrifice views for coziness and wind protection. One camper noted that "By far the best campsite option on this section of the AT! 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." Tent campers at Mauch Chunk Lake Park benefit from lake access, though reviews indicate weekends can become crowded and noisy. Riverside tent camping at Riverview Park requires advance reservations and provides convenient water access for paddling adventures.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Youngsville (38)
1. AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap
"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."
2. Mauch Chunk Lake Park
"Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone."
"Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large."
Check Availabilityfrom $20 / night
3. George W. Outerbridge AT Shelter
"A single-level open-sided AT shelter near the Lehigh Gap trailhead. The shelter itself is well maintained and has a raised covered platform for sleeping with plenty of space for lots of hikers."
4. AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap
"The only downside was my sleeping pad sprung a leak, so it wasn't the best night's sleep. But the site itself was great and I would camp there again."
"A bed of pine needles creates a padded comfortable area that is perfect for a large group backpacking in the area."
5. AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap
"This site is really 2 separate sites that are a short ways apart along the trail. They are both excellent spots to set up a tent if you plan on camping up on the ridge."
6. Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite (group)
"This site appears to be well-used and has several established areas for sitting and setting up a fire."
7. Riverview Park Campground
"The sites are each tent only and located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit. They also have a bathroom facility up alongside the road."
Check Availabilityfrom $15 - $30 / night
8. Lehigh Gap Woodpecker Trailhead Primitive Campground
9. AT/Bypass Trail Split Primitive Campground
10. Scrub Mountain Retreat
from $30 - $35 / night
Drive Time
- 26 min from Allentown, PA
- 1 hr 2 min from Scranton, PA
- 1 hr 5 min from Reading, PA
- 1 hr 27 min from Trenton, NJ
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Youngsville, PA
75 Photos of 38 Youngsville Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
BMR Operations, LLC dba Blue Mountain Resort By: BM Resort Management, LLC its Authorized Agent
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Tent Camping Reviews near Youngsville, PA
1088 Reviews of 38 Youngsville Campgrounds
- RRussell A.
Scout100 Mile View Camping
What a great place. So unique! Love the view, and a great experience! There are no hook ups, so be prepared but if you are looking for the dispersed camping experience you have found it. What a gem!
Nancy W.
LegendHickory Run State Park Campground
Peaceful State Park Camping in the Fall
This is a large campground with a wide array of campsites so be careful attention when you book online, especially if you have a pet because some sites are not pet-friendly. Some are 50-amp full hook-up and some are primitive with no hook-ups.
There is a nice nature center with interesting interpretive exhibits and lots of informational brochures including ones about the hiking trails, bears, scat and tracks of local animals, and fishing. Our site was at the edge of the campground and backed up to Route 534 which resulted in a bit of road noise at our site. Other than the road noise the campground was pretty quiet and was not very crowded when we camped there in October.
Not all sites are level and we happened to book one that was not and we had to live with a slant for our stay. The roads in the park are gravel/dirt and since it rained the day we arrived the roads were a muddy mess which made the roads slippery and there were lots of potholes. Unfortunately, some campers were disrespectful and left bags of trash in the fire pit and scattered around their site which was totally unnecessary because there were dumpsters plenty of dumpsters in the campground. Since we camped at Hickory Run late in the season, there were no camp hosts and the trash never got picked up.
The campground is open from mid-April to mid-December; however, the shower facilities and dump station are not available after the third week of October so plan accordingly. We really like the hiking trails which are of varying degrees of difficulty and lengths. The Hawk Falls is a nice easy walk (1.4 miles round-trip) to a waterfall but is extremely popular so don’t think you will be admiring the falls alone. The parking lot at this trail head fills up fast so you better get there early if you want to get a spot.
You can enter the park from two different directions. If you have a big-rig, it is best to approach from the east side. We made the mistake of coming in from the west side as we dropped down from I-80 and came down 534 and the road was really windy with no shoulder. Luckily, there was very little traffic so we could go 10 mph and safely navigate the roads.
Be aware alcohol is not allowed in PA state parks. This park does allow hunting in certain sections of the park. The no-hunting areas are clearly marked with white no hunting signs on trees and you can also pick up a brochure from the office that designates hunting and no-hunting sections.
Stuart K.LegendWashington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024
Revolutionary History near Delaware River
Nestled along the picturesque Delaware River in beautiful Bucks County, Washington Crossing Historic Park is one of those destinations where American history practically jumps out from behind every tree. This sprawling, beautifully preserved historic park commemorates George Washington's daring Christmas night crossing of the Delaware in 1776, with charming colonial buildings, expansive green spaces, shaded walking paths and lovely riverfront scenery. Divided into Upper and Lower sections, the park offers plenty to explore, from historic homesteads and interpretive exhibits to scenic picnic areas and the impressive Bowman's Hill Tower. Unfortunately, while the park delivers a wonderful outdoor experience, traditional overnight camping isn't part of the equation unless your a Boy Scout or accompanying one of their troops.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Spectacular Revolutionary War history at the very site of Washington's legendary Delaware River crossing; (2) Beautifully maintained grounds featuring mature trees, open lawns and scenic riverfront views; (3) Fascinating colonial-era buildings, historic demonstrations and educational exhibits that bring America's founding history to life; (4) Wonderful recreational opportunities, including walking, cycling, fishing, kayaking and picnicking; and (5) Convenient proximity to charming New Hope, the Delaware Canal towpath and Bowman's Hill Tower, offering plenty of opportunities to extend your adventure.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) No conventional public tent or RV camping, with overnight group camping restricted to organized Scout groups by prior arrangement; (2) No dedicated RV campsites, electrical hookups, water connections or dump station; (3) Park grounds generally close at sunset, limiting opportunities to linger into the evening; (4) Some historic buildings and attractions require admission fees or operate on limited schedules; and (5) Periodic restoration projects and special events can restrict access to certain areas, while the historic Washington Crossing Bridge's three-ton weight limit makes it unsuitable for larger RVs.
Happy Camping!
Tony F.
Guide100 Mile View Camping
The best views
This is a hidden gem, as close to dispersed camping you can get with dirt, gravel roads, large stone fire pits, a amazing views with the added benefit of a five gallon jug of non potable water and very clean port-a-potties. The owner regularly patrols the site and makes sure everything is okay.
Maria Mercedes M.LegendRound Valley State Park Campground
Peaceful Wilderness Escape for Adventurous Families
There's something wonderfully special about escaping into nature where the only sounds are rustling leaves, birds singing and the gentle movement of water along the shoreline. Nestled among the wooded hills surrounding the beautiful Round Valley Reservoir, this rustic SP campground offers families a chance to disconnect from everyday distractions and enjoy a little wilderness adventure together. Unlike traditional campgrounds, the campsites are accessible only by hiking or boating, so getting anywhere here requires some planning and a willingness to travel light. Once you've arrived, you'll find secluded, wooded campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Amenities are basic, with pit toilets and no showers, but the beautiful reservoir, scenic hiking trails, fishing and kayaking opportunities more than make up for the lack of modern conveniences. Our kids loved exploring the woods, spotting wildlife and gathering around a crackling campfire at night to share stories beneath the stars. For families comfortable with the hike, I'd recommend choosing one of the campsites along the reservoir shoreline for the lovely water views and peaceful surroundings. Just remember that swimming is limited to the park's designated beach area. Round Valley isn't your typical family campground, but for adventurous families who enjoy hiking, camping under the stars and making wonderful memories together, it's a beautiful place to experience nature at its finest!
- jjeanne A.Guide
Council Cup Campground
Better than nothing
Small campground with rude owner. Everything I asked about was putting her out. It was cheap though at $36 for water and electric with a military discount.
- jjeanne A.Guide
Echo Valley Campground
Big sites with lots of trees
We only spent the night and didn't look at the amenities. The manager was very friendly and accommodating.
Thomas B.
RangerTohickon Family Campground
Simple, peaceful FHU
We stayed just a couple nights here on our way north. The camp host was helpful before our stay and during check-in. Our site was pretty isolated from the others, so it was very quiet (no complaints here). There is a decent mix of sunny sites by the river and shady sites under the trees. The weather was perfect mid September. There wasn't anything spectacular for me, but it was a good experience and it was a nice taste of fall PA scenery. Beware that the roads are tight for a big rig. Side note, it did seem like most campers lived there.
Guide to Youngsville
The Appalachian Trail corridor near Youngsville, Pennsylvania provides diverse tent camping options at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,600 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with evening lows around 60°F, while spring and fall camping experiences more temperature variation. Most primitive sites require hiking distances of 1-5 miles from trailheads with varying terrain difficulty.
What to do
Paddling at Mauch Chunk Lake: Mauch Chunk Lake Park offers kayak and canoe rentals for water activities. "You can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes Lisa S., who visits specifically for paddleboarding opportunities.
White water rafting: Several outfitters operate within 10 minutes of camping areas, providing guided trips down the Lehigh River. "We were off to go rafting on the Lehigh river 10 minutes away," shares Emma T. after camping at Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Hiking different trail segments: The AT network includes varying difficulty levels from moderate ridge walks to challenging rocky ascents. At AT Ridge Campground near Lehigh Gap, you'll find "a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail."
What campers like
Protection from weather: Pine forest sites provide natural shelter during inclement conditions. "The pine trees also provide a nice cover to make this a well-protected site in case of bad weather," explains Asher K. about the AT Group Campsite near Lehigh Gap.
Riverside camping access: Tent campsites near Youngsville, Pennsylvania include river-adjacent options. "The sites are each tent only and located right along the river with a picnic bench and firepit," notes a camper about Riverview Park Campground.
Group accommodations: Several areas accommodate larger parties camping together. "A very large flat site with plenty of clear spots for multiple tents. This would work well for a large group," states a reviewer about Lehigh Gap AT primitive campsite, which offers enough space for several tents.
What you should know
Water availability challenges: Many ridge locations require carrying all water needed. "Just make sure to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge," warns a camper about tent sites along the Appalachian Trail.
Weekend congestion: Peak season weekends see significantly higher usage. "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," reports Danielle F. about her Mauch Chunk Lake Park experience.
Reservation requirements: Some locations require advance booking. "Just make sure if you are going to stay here that you reserve a site in advance since they will charge you an additional $10 if you show up without planning," advises a camper about Riverview Park.
Variable ground conditions: Soil dampness varies significantly by location and recent weather. "When I was here it had recently rained and the site was overall pretty boggy. The ground was relatively soft but without a good ground tarp, you might get a little wet."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Scrub Mountain Retreat provides more amenities than backcountry sites, with drinking water, showers and toilets available on-site.
Lake beach access: Areas with swimming options provide entertainment for children. "Nice beach area and lake to kayak!" notes Annette M. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park's facilities.
Introductory backpacking sites: Some locations serve as good first experiences. "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," explains Mackenzie B.
Group activity areas: Many campgrounds feature recreational spaces. "Volleyball courts, secret picnic areas, kayak and other boating rentals. Also a lot to do in the nearby town," shares Danny M. about the facilities at Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only restrictions: Most primitive sites near Youngsville only accommodate tent camping. While RV sites exist at Mauch Chunk Lake Park, the AT corridor sites are exclusively for tent camping with no vehicle access.
Alternative campgrounds for RVs: "Easy drive from Philly area, courteous staff, very wooded and quiet at night. Has many sites right along the lake edge, some very large," reports Amber M., noting that RV camping options exist at select locations outside the AT corridor.
Parking limitations: Trailhead parking for AT access points varies in capacity, with some lots accommodating only 5-10 vehicles. During peak hiking seasons, arrive early to secure parking before day hiking traffic fills lots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Youngsville, PA?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Youngsville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Youngsville, PA is AT Overlook Campground near Lehigh Gap with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Youngsville, PA?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Youngsville, PA?
TheDyrt.com has all 38 tent camping locations near Youngsville, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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