I was able to get up to the Poconos before the fall color ended! What an experience!! 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! I felt very safe camping here alone as a woman. The park ranger would frequently drive through the campground. I never saw any bears, although the staff said there were bears in the area. They had large dumpsters away from the campsites to dispose of garbage safely. Being able to wake up lakeside up in the mountain and looking at the view was an experience that I will always treasure!

I'll be honest. I've never slept outside of a tent. I've always wanted to, but never had the guts to do it. I looked up information on the platforms (also called Squirrel's Nest) on the state park website. It looked doable to me! The description stated it was about 100 yards from the parking area to the platforms. One of the pictures on the website showed (what I thought was an actual photo) a beautifully cleared flat trail. The distance to the platforms is definitely further than 100 yards, the trail is full of large roots and rocks, and it is a steep incline to haul your gear (small cooler, bundle of wood, your pack, chair, food, etc) especially if you're by yourself! The site itself was in a beautiful location, had a hand pump on site, and also had a shared bear proof storage box (shared between 2 sites). There is definitely active wildlife here!! Two other couples at two separate platform sites had encounters with a bear the same weekend I was here. Needless to say, I did it! I slept outside of a tent!! I'm very proud of myself for doing it and will check that off my must try list!

Be prepared for beauty!! The walk in tent sites are the best way to go. Most of these sites are separated from each other to give privacy. Some of the sites are overlooking a town and you're able to see the lights at night. The campground and bathrooms are kept clean and well stocked. The hosts and staff are very friendly and helpful! I liked the place so much that I went back after few weeks.