There’s something magical about waking up to the crisp mountain air of the Poconos, with Lake Tobyhanna shimmering in the early morning light just steps from your tent. After years of exploring Pennsylvania’s camping scene, I can confidently say that Tobyhanna stands out as one of the premier destinations for outdoor enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and family-friendly amenities.
This comprehensive guide covers the top campgrounds inside Tobyhanna and within a 40-minute drive, complete with detailed amenities, booking strategies, pet policies, and insider tips I’ve gathered through countless camping adventures. Whether you’re seeking rustic lakeside sites or full-service RV accommodations, you’ll find quick comparisons and practical alternatives for when your first choice is full in PA during peak season.
Where is Tobyhanna, and Why Camp Here
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains at approximately 2,000 feet elevation, Tobyhanna offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat that plagues lower elevations. The town sits strategically between major metropolitan areas, making it accessible from New York City (90 minutes), Philadelphia (2 hours), and Scranton (45 minutes). This prime location, combined with the pristine 170-acre Lake Tobyhanna, creates an ideal basecamp for exploring the broader Pocono region.
What truly sets Tobyhanna camping apart is its unique microclimate and diverse recreational opportunities. The higher elevation means you’ll enjoy cool, comfortable nights even during peak summer months, often 10-15 degrees cooler than surrounding valleys. The area boasts over 5,500 acres of state forest land, featuring well-maintained hiking trails, excellent fishing spots, and some of the clearest lake water you’ll find in Pennsylvania. The family-friendly atmosphere is palpable here, with organized activities, clean facilities, and a strong emphasis on preserving the natural environment for future generations.
Top Campgrounds in Tobyhanna
The beauty of camping in Tobyhanna lies in having options that cater to different camping styles, from primitive tent sites to luxury RV accommodations with full hookups.
1. Tobyhanna State Park (The Crown Jewel)
As the flagship Tobyhanna campground, Tobyhanna State Park represents the perfect introduction to Pocono camping. With approximately 135 well-maintained sites spread across wooded terrain, this state park campground offers both electric and non-electric options to accommodate various camping preferences and budgets.
The park’s amenities are impressive for a state facility: modern shower houses with hot water, a convenient dump station for RVs, and direct access to Lake Tobyhanna’s sandy beach area. Families particularly love the well-equipped playgrounds and the boat launch facility, which provides easy access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing adventures. The Tobyhanna State Park camping experience spans from mid-April through mid-October, with peak season filling up quickly due to the park’s reputation.
Important note for pet owners: Dogs are welcome but restricted to designated sites only; make sure to specify your needs when booking through ReserveAmerica.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 535 Tobyhanna State Park, Tobyhanna, PA 18466 |
| Amenities | Electric/non-electric sites, hot showers, dump station, beach access, boat launch, playgrounds |
| Average Pricing | $25-35/night (non-electric), $30-45/night (electric) |
| Parking | Paved parking pads at each site |
| Pet Policy | Designated pet sites only; leash required |
| Ideal For | Families, first-time campers, lake enthusiasts |
2. Hemlock Campground & Cottages (Private Comfort)
For those seeking a more amenity-rich Tobyhanna, PA, camping experience, Hemlock Campground & Cottages delivers private campground luxury while maintaining that authentic Pocono atmosphere. This family-owned facility offers both traditional tent/RV sites and fully equipped cottage rentals for those wanting a roof over their heads.
The standout feature here is the heated swimming pool, a genuine luxury after a day of hiking mountain trails. The recreation program keeps kids engaged with organized activities, while adults appreciate the reliable Wi-Fi for staying connected (when desired). The convenience store on-site ensures you won’t need to venture far for forgotten essentials or ice cream on hot afternoons.
Pet policies are refreshingly straightforward: dogs are welcome at all campsites but not permitted in cottage rentals. This makes it an excellent choice for RV travelers with furry companions.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 432 Hemlock Dr, Tobyhanna, PA 18466 |
| Amenities | Pool, playground, Wi-Fi, convenience store, laundry, organized activities |
| Average Pricing | $35-50/night (RV sites), $85-120/night (cottages) |
| Parking | Gravel/paved sites, cottage parking included |
| Pet Policy | Welcome at campsites, not in cottages |
| Ideal For | RV enthusiasts, families wanting amenities, longer stays |
Campgrounds Near Tobyhanna (15-40 Minutes)
Sometimes the best campgrounds near Tobyhanna, PA, lie just beyond the town borders, offering unique experiences and often better availability during peak seasons.
1. Gouldsboro State Park (Hidden Gem), PA
Just 10-15 minutes from downtown Tobyhanna, Gouldsboro State Park offers a more intimate Lake Tobyhanna camping alternative. This smaller state park surrounds a pristine 250-acre lake with heavily wooded campsites that provide exceptional privacy, something increasingly rare in popular camping destinations.
The real appeal here is the quieter atmosphere and excellent fishing opportunities. The lake supports healthy populations of bass, pickerel, and panfish, making it a favorite among serious anglers. Booking through ReserveAmerica is essential, as this park’s reputation for tranquility has spread among camping enthusiasts.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 94 Old Coach Rd, Gouldsboro, PA 18424 |
| Amenities | Wooded sites, lake access, fishing pier, restrooms |
| Average Pricing | $20-30/night |
| Parking | Natural surface parking |
| Pet Policy | Leash required in designated areas |
| Ideal For | Solitude seekers, anglers, nature photographers |
2. Mount Pocono Campground (RV Paradise)
Located 15-20 minutes from Tobyhanna, this campgrounds near Tobyhanna option caters specifically to RV enthusiasts who demand full amenities. Every site offers complete hookups (water, electric, and sewer), making it ideal for larger motorhomes and extended stays.
The resort-style amenities include multiple swimming pools, a recreation hall with organized activities, and well-maintained restroom facilities. The campground’s location provides easy access to major Pocono attractions while maintaining a peaceful, forested setting.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 1277 PA-196, Mount Pocono, PA 18344 |
| Amenities | Full hookups, pools, recreation hall, laundry, camp store |
| Average Pricing | $45-65/night |
| Parking | Concrete pads and pads, pull-through sites available |
| Pet Policy | Welcome with restrictions, designated areas |
| Ideal For | Large RVs, long-term stays, families wanting activities |
3. Promised Land State Park (Adventure Base)
The crown jewel of campgrounds in Tobyhanna vicinity, Promised Land State Park sits 30-40 minutes away but offers an unmatched camping experience. With multiple campground areas surrounding two pristine lakes, this park accommodates everything from primitive tent camping to year-round cabin rentals.
The hiking opportunities here are exceptional, with over 50 miles of marked trails ranging from easy lake loops to challenging ridge walks. Boat rentals are available on-site, and the fishing is consistently excellent for both warm and cold-water species.
| Detail | Information |
| Address | 4530 PA-390, Canadensis, PA 18325 |
| Amenities | Multiple campgrounds, cabins, boat rentals, extensive trails, and beach |
| Average Pricing | $25-40/night (camping), $75-150/night (cabins) |
| Parking | Varied by campground section |
| Pet Policy | Designated sites, extensive pet-friendly trails |
| Ideal For | Hikers, large groups, year-round camping |
Camping Rules & Policies You Need to Know
Understanding local regulations ensures a smooth camping experience in Pennsylvania’s state parks and private campgrounds.
- Quiet hours typically run from 9 PM to 7 AM and are strictly enforced during peak season. Most facilities prohibit bringing outside firewood due to invasive species concerns, but reasonably priced bundles are available at camp stores.
- Food storage becomes particularly important in this region, as black bears are active throughout the Poconos.
- Use provided bear boxes when available, or secure all food and toiletries in vehicles overnight.
- Pet restrictions vary significantly between facilities; state parks typically limit dogs to designated sites and require leashes at all times, while private campgrounds may offer more flexibility.
- Alcohol policies deserve special attention: most state parks prohibit alcoholic beverages entirely, while private campgrounds generally allow consumption at campsites but not in common areas.
Essential Packing & Safety Tips
The 2,000-foot elevation around Tobyhanna creates unique packing considerations that many first-time visitors underestimate. Even summer nights can drop into the 50s, making layered clothing and warm sleeping gear essential. I’ve learned to pack as if camping two seasons ahead, bringing summer clothes for daytime activities but autumn gear for nighttime comfort.
- Rain gear ranks as absolutely critical, as afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months.
- Quality insect repellent becomes your best friend during peak bug season (May through July), when mosquitoes and black flies can be quite aggressive in wooded areas.
- Bear awareness extends to food storage, making noise while hiking, especially on popular trails, and never approaching or feeding bears if encountered.
- Following Leave No Trace principles helps preserve these beautiful areas for future generations: pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife from appropriate distances.
Don’t Want to Rough It
If traditional camping isn’t quite your style but you still want to experience Tobyhanna’s natural beauty, consider a private vacation rental that offers the same lake-and-forest experience with modern comforts. HolidayKeepers specializes in Pocono vacation rentals that accommodate large groups, featuring amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, full kitchens, and spacious decks overlooking pristine lake views.
These properties provide the perfect indoor environment, outdoor adventures by day, and comfortable accommodations by night.
Explore Tobyhanna Vacation Rentals with HolidayKeepers; contact our team for personalized recommendations based on your group size and preferences as above.
Planning Your Perfect Tobyhanna Camping Adventure
Tobyhanna truly offers something for every camping enthusiast, from rustic Tobyhanna State Park sites where you’ll fall asleep to loon calls echoing across the lake to amenity-rich private campgrounds that make outdoor living comfortable for the whole family. The key to a successful trip lies in matching your camping style with the right facility and booking well in advance during peak season.
My strongest recommendation? Book early, especially for summer weekends and fall foliage season. Always verify pet policies if traveling with dogs, and consider private vacation rentals if you want to enjoy Tobyhanna’s natural beauty while maintaining the comfort level that makes everyone in your group happy. The Poconos have a way of creating lasting memories, whether you’re roasting marshmallows over a campfire or watching sunrise paint the lake in brilliant colors from your cottage deck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to camp in Tobyhanna?
A: Late spring through early fall offers the best camping conditions. May and September provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while July and August offer the warmest lake temperatures for swimming. Fall foliage season (late September through mid-October) is spectacular but books up quickly.
Q: Are reservations required for Tobyhanna State Park camping?
A: Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Walk-in sites are occasionally available but never guaranteed, especially during peak season weekends.
Q: Can I bring my dog to Tobyhanna campgrounds?
A: Dogs are welcome at most campgrounds but with restrictions. State parks require pets to stay in designated sites only and remain leashed at all times. Private campgrounds typically offer more flexibility, but always check specific policies when booking.
Q: What’s the average cost for camping near Tobyhanna?
A: State park sites range from $20 to $45 per night depending on amenities. Private campgrounds typically charge $35-65 per night for RV sites with full hookups. Cottage rentals and vacation homes range from $85 to $150 per night but accommodate larger groups, often making them cost-effective for families.
Q: Is firewood available at Tobyhanna campgrounds?
A: Yes, all major campgrounds sell firewood bundles on-site, typically priced between $6 and $10 per bundle. Outside firewood is generally prohibited due to invasive species regulations, so plan to purchase locally.
Q: What activities are available besides camping?
A: Lake activities include swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Hiking trails range from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain ridge trails. Many campgrounds offer organized activities during peak season, including nature programs, movie nights, and children’s activities.
