Complete Guide to Camping in the Poconos

Recently I embarked on an adventurous trip. Do you want to know what I did? Well, I opted for Poconos camping with my friends this time instead of hitting the road with zero direction. Would you like to do the same in some of the best campgrounds in the Poconos. 

I wanted to experience the much talked about glamping in the Poconos. Considered as the best leisure activity, it is something worth putting your money on, but that doesn’t mean you can forget our all time favorite, i.e., camping. I chose to pitch my tent in the Poconos campgrounds because of the mesmerizing beauty of Poconos Mountains crowned by blooming flowers.

I would highly recommend you to take your friends and family to the best of Poconos camping sites and have fun playing games, singing or narrating horror stories around the bonfire but before that let’s see why you shouldn’t miss experiencing camping in Poconos.

Why Poconos for Camping?

Why camp in the Poconos? Well, it’s a perfect mix of adventure and peace. In the heart of Pennsylvania, you’ve got beautiful forests, clear lakes, and mountains. It’s great for both chilling out and activities like hiking, fishing, or kayaking. Plus, the wildlife and campsites are amazing. So, for a great nature experience, Poconos is the place to be!

The Pocono Mountain campgrounds are one of the best in the region, but let’s list the reason why one should opt for them instead of going somewhere else.

• Varied types of camping sites in Poconos
• Magnificent nature full of verdant mountains, lush green forests, tranquil lakes, and pristine streams
• Numerous options for camping sites (Tent, RV, Glamping etc)
• Plethora of outdoor activities
• Close proximity to mega cities like New York

Types of Camping in Poconos

Before I dedicated my weekend to camping in Poconos, I thoroughly did my research around the types of camping it offers and for some good campgrounds near Poconos. Let me take you through some of them.

Tent Camping

Tent camping in the Poconos is the most basic yet the most beautiful experience one can have . It allows you to feel and experience the very essence of nature. It is easy and convenient to set up, however, there are a few important things to keep in mind, such as, some campgrounds require you  to bring your own camping gear like tent, sleeping pods, etc. while some provide you with the basic amenities and more.

One can pitch their tent in state parks, camping spots or reserved spots. I chose to stay in state park as it has the least amount of human interference and offers nature at its best.

Glamping

Are you like me who wants to experience glamping in the Poconos at least once, apart from the usual rustic camping? It is a way of experiencing nature without compromising the comfort of luxury. 

The glamping setup is often equipped with comfortable beds, high-quality linens, and other elegant amenities. These types of accommodation include yurts, safari tents, treehouses, eco-domes, bell tents, caravans, etc. You can enjoy glamping in the Pocono Mountains at designated spots only.

RV Camping

I have never tried this personally but would soon plan a weekend experiencing the Poconos RV camping. It’s a popular way of experiencing and exploring open roads and outdoors within the comfort of a home on wheels. 

From National parks to scenic routes, Poconos has everything that makes RV camping exceptional. So get ready for your Poconos RV camping journey. One can enjoy this only at some of the campgrounds in Poconos.

Best Poconos Camping Sites

Poconos is a vast region that encompasses over 2500 square miles and comprises National Parks, verdant hills,  lush green valleys, pristine lakes and serene beaches. Apart from these, do not forget about all the outdoor activities it has to offer its visitors.

Let me share some of the best campgrounds in the Poconos I have visited. You can select whatever seems best for you.

Jim Thorpe

I have spent at least 4 weekends enjoying this picturesque quaint town perfectly hidden in the  Poconos Mountains. I have camped both with my friends and family in this area, while enjoying the other outdoor activities it had to offer. You can find some of the finest campgrounds in Jim Thorpe which are worth trying.

Outdoor Activities: Rafting, Kayaking, Hiking, Biking, Golfing, Sidecar Tours

Stroudsburg

I have visited this artistic town for its mesmerizing art galleries, murals and food apart from camping. It offers a range of campgrounds to enjoy the camping with friends or family, according to the choice of place. I went on solo camping and enjoyed my time thoroughly. I’m listing some of the best camping spots in Stroudsburg below.

Outdoor Activities: Golfing, Tubing, TreeVentures, SkyDiving, Horseback Riding, Kayaking, Canoeing

Hawley

This low key town is known for its Victorian era architecture, antiquing and cultural events. Plan your next weekend camping in this small town to experience rustic camping or glamping at it’s best.

Outdoor Activities:  Swimming, Jet Skiing, Wakeboarding, Boating, Fishing Hiking, Shopping, Biking, Antiquing, Walking Tours

Pocono Pines

Located in the center of the Poconos Mountains, it’s a paradise for every vacationer. While researching about this  place, I came across some of the stunning campgrounds in  Pocono Pines which I would love to share with you guys.

Outdoor Activities: Swimming, Sailing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Rowing, Stand-up Paddleboarding, Sailboarding, Racing

Tobyhanna

If you are craving for some peaceful surroundings while camping near the Poconos, then Tobyhanna is the perfect  destination for you. It’s a gorgeous place located in close proximity to Tobyhanna falls. Let’s see some of the best campgrounds in Tobyhanna.

Outdoor Activities: Swimming, Hiking, Picnicking, Boating, FIshing, Mountain Biking, Arcade Rooms, Horseback Riding, Hunting

Honesdale

Explore top campsites in Honesdale while rejuvenating in a plethora of recreational activities this quaint American town has to offer to its visitors. From relishing the taste buds to being mesmerized by the enchanting forests, this breathtaking town shouldn’t be missed.

Outdoor Activities: Hiking, Pocono Raceway, Tanner Falls, Dorflinger Glass Museum, Stourbridge Line Train Excursions, Mountain Biking

Lake Wallenpaupack

Discover the native flora and fauna while enjoying panoramic views of Lake Wallenpaupack or rejuvenate in numerous outdoor activities it has to offer to its visitors. Below mentioned are some of the most famous campgrounds near Lake Wallenpaupack.

Outdoor Activities: Picnicking, Birding, Hiking, Boating, Swimming, Fishing, Hunting, Rail Tours, Skiing, Riding, Tubing

What’s the Best Time for Camping? 

Poconos attracts the tourists throughout the year and is available for camping throughout the year. The major camping season is from late April to mid-October. However, if someone wants to enjoy maximum outdoor activities, they should opt for camping in Pocono area campgrounds during summers. 

If you like the vibrancy of trails / ground caused due to foliage, then you should visit this gem during the Fall season. I camp at some of the best Pocono Mountain campsites during fall and summer season only as they provide a plethora of campsites options to choose from.

Tips for Your Next Camping Trip

Want to experience the best camping in Poconos , but worried around the rules and regulations of it? Don’t worry I will help you sail your boat around the camping trip easily. Let’s go through some generic guidelines which you need to consider around all camping sites.

• Reserve your spot on time
• Don’t roam in the forest at night
• Buy firewood from the allotted place only so as to preserve native species.
• Don’t litter your surroundings
• Check if your campground is pet friendly or not
• Don’t feed wildlife
• Carry trash bags and paper towels for proper waste management
• Respect quiet hours
• Follow the arrival & departure schedule
• Observe wildlife from a distance
• Respect other neighbors
• Follow fie rules and regulation
• Check weather for your camping days

Essentials to Pack for Trip to Poconos Campsites

All excited for your next camping trip? I would have been, but before that, let’s go through some essentials you need to pack for your trip.

• First aid kit for emergency
• Headlamp/ Flashlight to help during night hours
• Water filter for clean drinking water
• Download the maps in advance of the area
• Carry the compass so as you don’t get lost in the forest
• Insect repellent, to evade those mosquitoes
• Firestarter/ matches to lit a fire
• Minimal utensils
• Water bottles to store the water
• Camera with extra batteries

Clothing and Camping Gears

As much of importance the essentials are for your camping or glamping, clothes and camping gears shouldn’t be taken lightly either. I did and had to buy things in a hurry, but I don’t want you to suffer the same. Whether you opt for rustic camping or luxury glamping in Poconos, here’s the list of minimal requirements you should consider while camping.

• Carry your own tent/s if required
• Don’t forget your Sleeping pods
• Portable stove & fuel for preparing your food
• Clothes according to the weather prediction
• Hats and gloves to steer away from scorching sun rays
• Carry hiking shoes, if you plan on hiking the nearby trails
• Carry rain jacket and extra pair of socks
• Do not forget the hiking pants and gloves
• Trekking poles
• Sunscreens
• Multi-tool for various purposes

Take Away

Planning to experience the best glamping in Poconos or thinking of parking your vehicles in the Pocono rv campgrounds? Don’t worry about the spots or sites, use the ones mentioned above and luxuriate during your weekend getaways in Poconos. 

If you want to enjoy all the major attractions in the Poconos but feel the need of staying in luxurious vacation rentals or glamping, checkout the premium vacation rentals in Poconos by HolidayKeepers. They come with the best amenities in the world and other leisure spaces like game rooms and theaters. Book yours now and feel free to contact us if there’s any queries.

Aman Mehrotra

With a decade of expertise in travel and hospitality, Aman Mehrotra, Senior Editor and Travel Manager at HolidayKeepers, is known for his compelling storytelling and insightful travel content. He skillfully combines strategic marketing wisdom with engaging narratives, covering everything from undiscovered destinations to the latest trends in vacation rentals. Aman’s writings resonate with both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking leisurely retreats. His global perspective and innovative approach make him a valuable asset to the HolidayKeepers team and a favorite among readers seeking inspiration and practical advice for their travels.