The Lenhartsville camping region sits in the wooded hills of eastern Pennsylvania at approximately 470 feet elevation, where the summer camping season typically experiences average highs around 83°F in July. The area's proximity to both the Appalachian Trail and several fishing lakes makes it popular with both hikers and anglers, with most private campgrounds operating from early April through October.
What to do
Hike the boulder field: At Blue Rocks Family Campground, visitors can explore a unique glacier rock field. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," notes Nick M. The campground offers direct access to popular trails, with one reviewer adding, "It's right at the base of one of the most popular hiking trail, The Pinnacle. It's nestled in the woods and is very rustic."
Explore Appalachian Trail access: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to sections of the Appalachian Trail system. Catherine M. from Blue Rocks notes the campground is "one mile off the Appalachian trail" with "private and spaced out primitive sites." Many hikers use these campgrounds as base camps for day hikes or overnight trail expeditions.
Fish in stocked ponds: Mountain Springs Camping Resort offers fishing in two stocked ponds. The campground's location near I-78 makes it easily accessible for weekend trips, and one visitor noted it's "one of the more reasonably priced campgrounds in the area." The resort's wooded setting provides shade during summer months.
What campers like
Varied terrain options: Allentown KOA offers sites along a creek for those who enjoy water sounds while camping. "Really nice campground. Staff was friendly and helpful. It's very secluded, no highway noise. Our spot backed up right to a creek and it was beautiful," writes Matt R. The campground provides both sunny and shaded sites depending on preference.
Spacious sites: At French Creek State Park Campground, campers appreciate the well-designed layout. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports Jen R. The park offers both primitive sites and electric hookups with fees around $33.50 per night for electric sites.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds in the region feature pools or swimming areas. French Creek State Park includes both a pool and lakefront swimming areas. One camper mentioned, "There is a pool, playground, camp store, bike and golf cart rentals. Super easy access to Appalachian trail. Trail heads begin inside the campsite."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds in the Lenhartsville area have uneven terrain. At Jim Thorpe Camping Resort, one camper noted, "The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because our site wasn't level and it took hours to get it right." Sites on hills may require extra blocking materials.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Some facilities like Locust Lake State Park Campground close completely during winter months. A visitor noted the park "is beautiful in the fall. Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling!"
Varied bathroom conditions: Bathroom quality differs significantly between campgrounds. At French Creek State Park, one camper was "very disappointed in the cleanliness of the women's bathroom," while others found facilities acceptable. Campgrounds with more recent renovations generally offer better facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-specific amenities: Pine Hill RV Park offers a playground and mini-golf course that appeal to families. A visitor mentioned, "Amenities include an older style playground, horseshoe pits, manicure golf, and volleyball court." Many campgrounds in the area schedule weekend activities specifically for children.
Consider creek-side sites: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers sites where children can safely explore shallow water features. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" says Terri S. These natural features provide hours of entertainment for children.
Check for fishing opportunities: Locust Lake State Park offers accessible bank fishing ideal for introducing children to fishing. "We did some kayaking and fishing, it was good! We went in July, and it did rain some," writes Paul J. The park rents boats and permits shore fishing without special licenses for children under 16.
Tips from RVers
Reserve full hookup sites early: At Robin Hill Campground, full hookup sites book quickly during peak season. "Our site was full hook up. It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet!" shares Becca U. Reservations for holiday weekends should be made 3-4 months in advance.
Watch for site drainage issues: Some campgrounds have drainage problems after rain. One Robin Hill camper noted, "Sites are swampy if they've had rain! Took us over two hours to disconnect because of mushy, muddy site!" Consider requesting elevated sites if rain is in the forecast.
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds near Lenhartsville have limitations for larger RVs. At Mountain Springs Camping Resort, pull-through spots are "long but very narrow." Jim Thorpe Camping Resort requires careful site selection, as "RVs were parked so close together that none of us could use our awnings."
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