Camping in the Pocono Mountains

Encompassing approximately 2,400 square miles in northeastern Pennsylvania, the Poconos are a popular vacation destination for people living in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. In the summer, there are many hiking and camping opportunities in the Poconos, particularly near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on the border between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. There are also seven state parks in the region.

Delaware Water Gap

The Delaware Water Gap was cut by the Delaware River, and it encompasses Mount Minsi in Pennsylvania and Mount Tammany in New Jersey. The Appalachian Trail runs through part of the area and offers several camping sites that are accessible to backpackers looking to do multi-day outings. There are also river campsites available to those canoeing on the river. Worthington State Forest Campground in New Jersey and Dingmans Campground in Pennsylvania are two of the most popular campsites within the area boundaries. Mountain Vista Campground is close by in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

State Parks

There are several state parks in the Poconos that have excellent camping, including Frances Slocum, Hickory Run, Lackawanna, Promised Land, Ricketts Glen, Tobyhanna and Worlds End. Tent camping and RV camping are possible at most of these sites, which all offer recreational opportunities, such as mountain biking, hiking and fishing.

Northern Poconos

Countryside Family Campground, north of Interstate 84 near Lake Wallenpaupack, is a popular campsite destination with both RV and tent camping.

Article Written By Candace Horgan

Candace Horgan has worked as a freelance journalist for more than 12 years. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the "Denver Post" and "Mix." Horgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and history.

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