Best Camping in and near Ricketts Glen State Park

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ricketts Glen State Park adventure.

Camp near dozens of waterfalls and ancient trees in this Northeastern Pennsylvania Park

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Ricketts Glen State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Ricketts Glen State Park

Falls Trail - primarily made up of slate, so wear appropriate footwear. (i.e. No flippy-floppies! You wouldn't believe some of the people we came across, women in crocs carrying infants, elderly folk in burkenstocks. Oy!)

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Ricketts Glen Park Campground

141 sites · RVs, Tents In Ricketts Glen State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Ricketts Glen State Park

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100 Mile View Camping

14 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Jim Thorpe, PA

The 100 Mile View Campground is located 3 miles from Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge State Park, Delaware, and Lehigh Heritage Trail, White Water Rafting, Steam Train Rides, Museums, Music Entertainment at Mauch Chunk Opera House, and Mauch Chunk Lake which is perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddle boating and fishing. You can get to all of these activities in 3 miles with no traffic by turning left out of our driveway and driving west on Flagstaff Road to Jim Thorpe. We offer hiking and mountain biking trails on our property and a variety of camping opportunities for parties with tents, campers, overlanders, and RVs. Our campsites are booked on ResNexus.com which does not charge additional booking fees for reservations made at our campground. 100 Mile View Camping is a family-run campground that is located in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania on a property that has 100 Mile East to West Panoramic Views. It is comprised of several parcels totaling 100's of acres that were purchased over the past 35 years. We have shared our property with hikers, bikers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts since day one. Our campground started with only 6 campsites, but with great reviews, we continue growing and have recently received the approvals to become one of the premier camping and outdoor resort destinations in the Eastern United States. Our founder, Jake Arner, has a passion for the outdoors and for people who show respect for nature and for other people. Jake genuinely enjoys sharing his property with others. This property and Jake's generosity have received 5-star reviews online from many people.

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Stonehedge Gardens Holistic Retreat

11 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Tamaqua, PA

Stonehedge Gardens and Holistic Learning Center is a beautiful, landscaped 20-acre sanctuary with walking trails, ponds, a creek and perennial gardens located in Tamaqua, in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Also onsite are many amenities, including a community kitchen, firepits, local artisan gift shop, and pottery studio. Hike right from Stonehedge into the town of Tamaqua (less than 3 miles) on a designated Rail Trail to find the Tamaqua Community Arts Center, Stokers Brewery, and several restaurant options. Local hiking trails include: * Schuylkill Valley Heritage Trail (7.3 miles) - less than 15 min. drive * Switchback Railroad Trail (18 miles) less than 20 min. drive for a 9 mile descent into Jim Thorpe * Owl Creek Reservoir (2 mi.) less than 15 min. drive boating, fishing, hiking We are also close to: * Jim Thorpe (25 min.) * Hawk Mountain Sanctuary (20 min.) * Blue Mountain Ski Resort (40 min.) Stonehedge provides a healing, sacred, inclusive environment for the cultivation of community and personal transformation through wellness, art, holistic education and connection with nature. Please email info@stonehedge.us for any further questions and visit our website at https://www.stonehedge.us

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Pocono Point

40 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Lehighton, PA

Pocono Point RV & Campground offers a truly unforgettable vacation experience, where you can enjoy the culture of historic Jim Thorpe any time of year. Our camping near the Pocono Mountains offers an array of stay types like full-hookup RV sites, cozy cabins, as well as the authentic experience of rustic tent camping. We also have one-of-a-kind views over the Delaware Water Gap. Pocono Point RV features accommodations for every family to enjoy; whether you’re camping for the first time or take the family out for an adventure every year, we have the site, tent, or cabin for you.

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RoundStone

10 sites · Tents400 acres · Weatherly, PA

We are a small, family owned campground nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, on the outskirts of the famous Poconos. We offer rustic tent sites and log cabins on nearly 400 acres. The property has been in our family since the late 1800's, initially operating as an ochre mill. We are near the historic town of Jim Thorpe, Whitewater Rafting Adventures, Hickory Run State Park, Lehigh Gorge State Park, Tuscarora State Park, and more. PLEASE NOTE: - Our tent sites are rustic with NO electric or running water. Porta-Johns are available throughout the grounds. (Some sites are closer to port-a-johns than others.) We do not provide potable water or showers but we allow responsible use of the stream for cleaning. - FIREWOOD: Due to the threat of invasive pests, we do not allow firewood to be transported onto the grounds. We have firewood for sale for $7 per crate. You can pick and crate your wood at the wood pile on the grounds at your convenience. Please bring cash if possible or get in touch at the end of your stay to pay via Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle. -We have a variety of wildlife in the area, including black bears. Please follow 'Leave No Trace' protocols and be mindful of trash and food throughout your stay. We have a dumpster available to you on the grounds. -Check in is contactless. Upon booking, you will receive directions to your site. -Three night minimum: Memorial Day Weekend, 4th of July Weekend, Labor Day Weekend. -Only some of our sites are available here on Hipcamp. Please get in touch with us for more options if you have a larger group or if you are interested in a cabin.

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Hartman's Oasis

5 sites · Tents20 acres · Benton, PA

We live on 20 acres of wooded property with a 2 and a half acre pond, with fishing and swimming and kayaking available. There is a lot of wildlife around. We are just minutes away from Ricketts Glen State Park where you can hike & Lake Jean where you can swim, kayak, fish. The town of Benton with its small shops and businesses are just 8 miles down the road.

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Camp Dietrich on Bear Creek

4 sites · Lodging425 acres · Jim Thorpe, PA

Four secluded campsites along Bear Creek in the Poconos, feature spacious safari tents with queen bunk beds, covered dining area, a deck to set up an additional 6 person pop up tent. In addition we have “Check Point Shed” where campers can borrow gear. Drive into your campsite immediately you will hear the sounds of a babbling creek, by giant rhododendrons under magnificent hemlocks and oaks - a truly natural and relaxing experience. Campers can enjoy a short hike to our private waterfall with swimming hole or lay in a hammock by the creek. The sites are surrounded by 400 acres of privately owned natural forest with several miles of marked trails. The campsite is adjoined by Lehigh Gorge State Park and PA state game lands. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended for hiking. Just minutes away there are outdoor adventures galore: white water rafting, kayaking, biking on rail to trails bike paths, skirmish paint ball, Glen Onoko Falls and Hickory Run state parks. The mountaintop entertainment venue Penns Peak and the historic town of Jim Thorpe are just 15 minutes from the campsite. Jim Thorpe has many fine eatery’s, shops, the Lehigh Gorge Railway and Asa Packer mansion

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Spyglass Ridge Winery

4 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Sunbury, PA

The property is on 50 acres and has a winery, brewery and restaurant available. We have events all year long and host concerts that bring over 4,000 people per event. Catch and release fishing in the pond and plenty of open space to stroll around. Learn more about this land:Brewery (open Thursday through Sunday) and Winery (open Tuesday through Sunday) on site. Close to Knoebel's Amusement Resort and Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area. Pond for catch and release fishing. Pet friendly and relaxing property

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River Mountain Outdoors

5 sites · Lodging, Tents83 acres · Bloomsburg, PA

The history of the Pump House began in 1878, when three ambitious men hatched a plan for the world's first long-distance underground oil pipeline which would transport oil from well to refinery more quickly and efficiently than the horse-drawn wagons of the time. Pumping stations were needed every fifty miles along this long route to keep pressure on the pipeline so that the oil could reach its destination. Pump House Bed and Breakfast is one of the only properties in the country in which the both the original homes of the foremen and the large brick buildings remain. Doug, owner, has spent more than 20 years lovingly restoring these foreman houses as well as the large industrial brick buildings. The Brick Barn Hall once housed steam pumps to pressurize the pipe and keep the oil moving, and the Catawissa Cabin behind it served as the telegraph office. The Studio Hall contained boilers that produced the steam to power the pumps, while the adjoining Studio Cabin functioned as a blacksmith's workspace. Today, the buildings function as reception spaces for weddings and other special events, and house private suites as well as an art studio where Doug pursues his work and teaches drawing, ceramics, and stained glass classes. The Season House, one of the two foreman homes, features additional guest accommodations while Doug resides in the other foreman house. Visit and experience a piece of PA history! The 2004 This Old House feature on Doug's

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Fairie Tale Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents60 acres · Shickshinny, PA

Unplug, Refresh, Renew! Fairie Tale Farm invites you to experience its magical ambiance and warm hospitality. Our gorgeous historical farmstead is a hidden gem that begs to be shared! Explore hiking and biking trails on this expansive 60-acre horse farm, or simply unwind while watching the horses graze (no treats, please) and observing wildlife meandering through the woods. For more outdoor adventures, Ricketts Glen State Park is nearby, offering opportunities to hike alongside 22 breathtaking waterfalls in the gorge or kayak on Lake Jean. If camping is your pleasure, but hiking isn't your cup of tea, fret not! There are plenty of local antique stores to peruse for treasures or several wineries to tour and indulge in tastings. Not sure which of our many unique campsites suits you and your guests best? Simply book one, and we can have a chat to determine the perfect fit. All our sites come equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring stocked with one bundle of wood and kindling, and access to fresh water. Plus, there's a convenient Port-A-Potty nearby for your comfort.

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Peters Sawmill

3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Hillsgrove, PA

In the heart of the forest, nestled among towering trees and surrounded by breathtaking views, a humble cabin. It’s the place that evokes tranquility and solitude, offering a refuge from the chaos of the outside world. What makes this cabin truly captivating is its unique location, obscured by the presence of a running sawmill. Come enjoy watching as it takes you back in time. This sawmill is unlike any bandmill, boasting a massive 4 and a half-foot circular saw, a relic from the years between 1935 and 1945. Its rhythmic, melodic hum fills the air, blending seamlessly with the symphony of nature. The captivating noise created an enchanting ambiance, luring those in search of solace and beauty. We run our mill with recycled cooking oil and a diesel blend. Behind the sawmill, nature thrives harmoniously. Wildlife painted the surroundings with vibrant colors, as birds filled the sky with their elegant dances and curious squirrels scurried about, their fluffy tails adding a playful touch to the lush landscape. The cabin is a sanctuary where one can witness the wonders of nature, just a walk away from the roaring sawmill. Come check out a piece of preserved history all while enjoying pristine wooded views! Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in history. Enjoy the power of the circular saw, a symbol of the immense progress and craftsmanship of yesteryears. Together, the cabin, the forest, and the sawmill form a perfect harmony — a testament to the beauty of nature entwined with mankind's desire to create. It offers a glimpse into a world where modernity meets tradition, where breathtaking views and the symphony of the sawmill entice all who venture here to enjoy.

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Peace & Quiet by the River!

4 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · New Ringgold, PA

My farm is just beautiful. I have owned it for 46 years and am proud as can be of its beauty and serenity. Welcome to our perfect outdoor haven, a beautiful 150 acre farm, providing an extraordinary escape from the hustle and bustle of our modern world. Two of our exclusive campsites are located on the banks of the Little Schuylkill River, with the world-renowned Hawk Mountain Sanctuary boarding on the other side of the river. The third site, has an open view of Hawk Mountain and the farm, to say nothing of the full sky view.. Our private, exclusive campsites, easily encompassing about 5 acres at each site and surrounded by the 150 acre farm, are designed to take advantage of the natural surroundings. Here you will find yourself off grid and alone with nature. Imagine yourself pitching your tent along the river or on the hill top, viewing countless birds of prey and all types of wildlife with no other folks around, except for your people. The location could not be better or more private. Our family for years have camped and played at these site, enjoying the river and night sounds. We are a working Christmas Tree farm as well. Truly private camping, not a commercial camp ground. Very few camping sites exist where you can just have your own space, but you may have it here. My family are stewards to this wonderful farm, and are thrilled to share it with you. We want you to chill and to find tranquility, to respect our sites and make memories that are treasured. Details: We will consider 1 night stays for weekdays, please contact for availability and pricing. We will also consider more than 8 campers. Please inquire! Because we are a tree farm, we cannot allow you to bring wood from other locations on to the farm. Wood is for sale here and we request a pre order so we can have it ready at your site. You may purchase through Hipcamp or directly from us. All sites have a picnic table, a Hawk Shadow Out House, water to wash things, a preparation table and a good bundle of kindling to start off your camping experience. There Is a shovel, cooking grates, log benches and a neat campfire ring. Potable water is available at the farm and you may refill when needed. Campsite #1 (Lean To Site) This site is along the river. It is private and lovely. You may park your car above the site and walk down to the river and camping area. Short, 50 yards, but a steepish walk. Pack in and out accordingly. Very private, lots of space. It is perfect. Campsite #2 (Dog Gone Site) This site is also along the river. It is private and has the same set up as site one. Park your car on top of hill and walk on down. It is a lovely spot. Walk is about 50 yards down a steep hill. Pack accordingly. Campsite #3 (High Site) Site 3 is above the river and looks over Hawk Mountain and the farm. It is private with beautiful views. Unreal full moon gazing............. Sunrise, Sunset, Moon rise, Bird watching, all very visible from this site. Car accessible, no walking to campsite required. At all sites, different seasons bring different activities. Spring: Kayaking, fishing and hiking. Summer: hiking, fishing in the pond, cooling off in the swim hole. Fall: raptor watching, hiking, biking plus fishing, (license required), in the Little Schuylkill. The nights are dark with star lit skies. We have a 1.5 acre bass pond on the farm for fishing, so bring your rod. Big bass in there!! Your camp site is surrounded by woods and forest, fields and trees. You are a two hour drive from center city Philadelphia and 2.5 hours from down town New York City. One hour from Harrisburg. What to do here? Plenty! Hiking! Hawk Mountain Sanctuary entrance is only 3 miles away. www.alltrails.com/parks/us/pennsylvania/hawk-mountain-sanctuary https://www.hikingproject.com/directory/8018169/hawk-mountain-sanctuary Both entrances to the Appalachian Trail, Eckville and Port Clinton, are a 10 minuet drive. A visit to Yuengling Brewery, in Pottsville, Americas older brewery, is a 20 minute drive. Jim Thorpe is a fourty five minute drive. Kutztown University is 35 minutes away. The heart of Amish Country is an hour drive. Biking, both country road and mountain. You need your own maps! Fishing in our beautiful river or on our pond! Cabela's in Hamburg is just 15 minutes down the road. But most of all to do here is to relax, fish, play in the river, walk and visit with your family and friends. Please see schuylkillriver.org for more information about our area. Hawk Shadow is located between New Ringgold and Port Clinton on the east side of the Appalachian Mountain. Very Rural. There is plenty of local produce, we can give you directions to our local farm stands. Fresh butchers are not far away. Swap meets and antique auction houses are scattered around the area. Yes, you can drive to the area of the campsite, but no, you cannot drive down actual site at campsite #1 and #2. Parking at site 3, no walk required.. Contact me and we will give you as much information as we can. Enjoy, have fun and be peaceful! Look at these sites for hiking and activities in the area!! www.alltrails.com/parks/us/pennsylvania/hawk-mountain-sanctuary https://www.hikingproject.com/directory/8018169/hawk-mountain-sanctuary schuylkillriver.org

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Mountain Campsite @ Bear Creek

2 sites · Tents11 acres · Jim Thorpe, PA

We offer two primitive tent camping sites on our private wooded acreage surrounding our residence, located 6 miles outside the town of Jim Thorpe Pennsylvania. Our 2 sites are located on the Southern slope of Scrub Mountain at an elevation of 1473 ft, in the Bear Creek Drainage area a beautiful and rugged tributary to the Lehigh River Our 2 Tent campsites are completely landscaped and contain all basic amenities such as water, electric, stone fire rings, with tables and chairs.The property is completely wooded secluded and quiet however the property is frequented by potentially dangerous wildlife such as bears coyotes and rattlesnakes. Guests are given a brief orientation upon arrival as to potential dangers and basic rules. To protect our guests our property is video monitored with night vision cameras and perimeter sensing alarms which are activated after dark which alert the hosts to any potential unwelcome trespassers crossing over the perimeter. Our location is a great base camp for those outdoor adventurers looking to explore the Lehigh River Gorge, Hickory Run State Park, SGL#141 and other natural attractions of Carbon County, PA. Our property provides convenient access to many outdoor activities such as Whitewater Rafting, on the famous and scenic Lehigh River. Mountain Biking on the Lehigh Gorge Trail, Day Hiking to scenic vistas and we are within short driving distance of several Scenic Waterfalls. Our prize possession is the outstanding trout fishing in the Lehigh River and it's numerous tributaries, all of which have good populations of Native Brook Trout, Wild Brown Trout and wild and stocked Rainbow Trout as well as many other cold water fish species. Our location further provides top notch wildlife viewing and photography on our private property you are highly likely to encounter black bears, coyotes, whitetail deer, wild turkey and even an occasional mountain lion, as well as many other various other game species. For you bird watchers this part of the Poconos has an exceptional population of wild birds some very rare. Your Campsite Hosts are Keith and Deborah and their 3 lovable and friendly rescue Dogs Sophie, Trinity, and Neo who all reside on the property in the main house (Please if you do not enjoy Dogs please do not book a stay here), The Main House is open to all guests for bathroom, showers, laundry, and kitchen use if necessary, or to escape potentially dangerous weather or wildlife. Keith (58), Debby (60) and the dogs are highly experienced outdoor adventurers who enjoy backpacking, camping, kayaking, fishing and Rockhounding along with many other outdoor pursuits. As hosts their goal is to provide their guests with a safe, relaxing and adventurous getaway. Keith owns and operates an Outdoor Adventure Guide Service known as Bear Mountain Adventures providing personalized outdoor adventures in and around the Lehigh River Gorge and Carbon County, PA. Your Hosts can suggest, plan, outfit, and even guide you on any outdoor excursion you would like to enjoy during your stay., and they are happy to provide you with information on all the hidden natural wonders of the area. If you seek to avoid the crowded commercial and state campgrounds then we got you covered, book a stay at our semi-primitive campsites at our remote mountain home and let us provided you with true and individualized mountain hospitality. We look forward to seeing you on the Mountain.

The best camping near Ricketts Glen State Park guide

Overview

About

Ricketts Glen State Park offers some of the best hiking in Pennsylvania, especially if you like waterfalls and old-growth forest. It’s a designated National Natural Landmark and features 24 named waterfalls plus plenty more smaller cascades, connected by miles of hiking trails. Other popular activities include horseback riding, fishing, and boating on Lake Jean. Winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The Ricketts Glen Park Campground offers five cottages, 10 cabins, and 120 tent and trailer sites, most of which close for the winter (though a few campsites and all cabins stay available for winter stays). Campground amenities include hot showers, restrooms with flush toilets, and a dump station.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve a spot at Ricketts Glen by calling Pennsylvania State Parks or via their website.
Reservations for campsites, cabins, and cottages open 11 months in advance and remain open until three days in advance.
Campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis through the park office. If you don’t have a reservation, it’s wise to come in the morning to increase your chances of getting a spot.
Large groups can reserve the organized group camping area with room for 240 campers, available from mid-April to mid-October.

When to go

Ricketts Glen is open year-round, and while many people come here for winter sports and ice fishing, the summer is the best time to visit, especially if you want to see the waterfalls. The Falls Trail system closes annually for safety reasons usually in late November and reopens again once the ice has melted and park staff have had the chance to clear hazards, usually by mid-to-late April.

Know before you go

You can pick up gas, groceries, firewood, and other supplies in Hunlock Creek, about a 20-minute drive from the park.
Alcohol is prohibited in Ricketts Glen and all other Pennsylvania state parks.
Kayaks and boat rentals are available during the summer months.
Pets are welcome in select cabins and cottages and at some campsites, for a fee.
Cabins F and H, all of the cottages, and many of the campsites are ADA accessible.
Cabins and cottages have a two-night minimum stay in the off-season and can only be rented by the week in summer.