The New Tripoli area features camping options within the Lehigh Valley's foothills, ranging from 400 to 800 feet in elevation with mixed deciduous forest cover. Campsites near New Tripoli, Pennsylvania operate in a climate with average summer highs in the 80s and overnight lows in the 60s. Most campgrounds have gravel pads for both tent and RV camping, with varying degrees of shade depending on the specific location.
What to do
Boulder exploration: 10 miles from main camping areas. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, visitors can explore the unique glacial rock field. "Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments. You can be down near the creek and in the open more, in the wooded areas, or you can be near the corn field and glacier rock field," notes Jen R.
Creek activities: Available at most campsites. Many campgrounds feature creek access for relaxation and fishing. At Allentown KOA, "We had a nice pull-through site and enjoyed our stay. Nice stream running through camp," reports Craig C. These creeks aren't typically for swimming but provide wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hiking access: Trail connections from campsites. Several campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. "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. Really gives you that camping feel!" shares Darrien K. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. Many trails are moderate difficulty with some rocky sections.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained. Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities at area campgrounds. At Lizard Creek Campground, "Bathrooms were just OK but were very clean," according to Brandon W. Shower facilities typically include hot water, though some older campgrounds have more basic setups.
Waterfront sites: Limited availability. Creek and lakeside sites are highly sought after in the region. "Our site was a little rocky so be prepared with a good mat/mattress if tent camping. Our site was on a little stream which was relaxing," reports Maggie H. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. These sites often cost $5-10 more than standard sites.
Recreational variety: Beyond hiking. Many campgrounds offer additional recreational activities. At Mauch Chunk Lake Park, "Our first time tent camping was here and it set a great tone. We set up the tent, kayaked on the lake, cooked up some dinner, watched a strawberry super moon rise over the lake, went to bed, woke up to make some breakfast and then we were off to go rafting on the Lehigh river 10 minutes away," shares Emma T.
What you should know
Site conditions: Often rocky terrain. The natural geology of the area means many tent sites have rocky surfaces. "Our site was a little rocky so be prepared with a good mat/mattress if tent camping," advises Maggie H. about Blue Rocks. Extra padding is recommended for tent campers.
Seasonal differences: Spring can be muddy. Early season camping may encounter wet conditions. At Hickory Run State Park Campground, "This was our first visit to Hickory Run State Park & we loved it. Hickory Run is in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. We had a full hook-up site in the back loop, pet friendly part of the campground," notes Shirley M.
Wildlife awareness: Bears present in region. Several campgrounds have established protocols for food storage due to local wildlife. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," reports Jennifer D. about Hickory Run State Park. Most campgrounds require food to be stored in vehicles overnight.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options at larger sites. Many family-oriented campgrounds feature playground equipment. At Stonybrook RV Resort, "It has a pool, playground, arcade, store, a game room. They also do things for different holidays," notes Tori, making it convenient for families with younger children.
Swimming options: Both pools and natural areas. Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities. "The lake was beautiful. Very clean and picturesque and perfect for swimming," says Danielle F. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park. Pool facilities typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Fishing opportunities: No license needed for children under 16. Many sites offer fishing access. "There is a pond for fishing however we didn't have any luck. It had a lot of pond scum and there were a lot of duck families around," reports Jen R. about Robin Hill Campground. Most fishing areas are catch-and-release only.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Bring blocks. Many camping sites require some leveling for RVs. "Our site was level and nicely graded. We didn't have any trouble getting in and out and all the hook-ups were well-placed and worked well (including the cable)," reports Nancy W. about Pine Hill RV Park.
Navigation challenges: Some tight turns. Larger rigs may face challenges at certain campgrounds. "Very small campground. Can be tight getting around with a bigger camper if not experienced," warns Brandon W. about Allentown KOA. Most sites accommodate up to 35-foot rigs, with limited availability for larger vehicles.
Hookup variations: Check availability. Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "No water hook up. No sewer hook up. Just electric at certain sites," notes Brandon W. about Locust Lake State Park Campground. Water fill stations are typically available at campground entrances.
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