Camping in Ricketts Glen State Park

98% (43 reviews)

Top camping in Ricketts Glen State Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

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!)

1. Ricketts Glen Park Campground

141 sites · RVs, Tents · In Ricketts Glen State Park

A stay at Ricketts Glen Park Campground puts you right on the shores of Lake Jean, but if that’s not enough H2O for you, take a stroll to the beach area, take a boat out, or take one of many intense, challenging trails to glimpse the area’s best-loved feature: spectacular cascading waterfalls

98% (43 reviews)

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

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Stories from the community

3 nights at Fairie Tale Farm

A Fairie Tale farm indeed! The campground/farm has it all, if you know what ”real” camping is. As a busy family from the city, we value rest, quietness and most of all privacy when we go camping, and Susan’s land delivered! The best nights’ sleep, ever! It was lovely to be surrounded by nature, wake up from the birds singing and not by noisy neighbors ( although we did have neighbors but they were polite and respectful ). Susan is super nice and hardworking, she made sure we are settled and got everything we needed, she did all the same with the other campers. Ricketts Glen State Park is about a few minutes drive. We did the “Falls Trail” trail, ( because we are a family who hikes ) and oh boy, we have hiked difficult trails, but this one, please do not underestimate, you will need proper footwear! The trail we picked was a “moderate” one, but we find the way back is hard because it was very slippery where the “falls” are, and there’s so many of them! Seeing the horses in the afternoon was such a delight, because our site was just right in front of it! We can’t wait to go back, maybe next camping we will pick shelterwood! Thanks again Susan!❤️

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

This was my first HipCamp booking and was not left disappointed. Chris and Jackie were absolute super hosts! Most adorable couple. They were very accommodating and caring. Just want to thank them for being so kind and generous! 🙏🏼❤️

Weekend Trip to Fairie Tale Farm

Was only there one night, but probably the best Hipcamp experience I’ve had. Susan was very communicative and accommodating, and offered more than expected. Really enjoyed taking the paddle board out on the pond before settling in at the site, and my dog loved getting a swim in herself.

Weekend Trip to Fairie Tale Farm

We loved it here!! Susan has a beautiful property. Our campsite provided plenty of privacy and space for four adults and our two dogs. Quick drive to Ricketts Glen, which is where we spent our Saturday. We look forward to returning in the future.

Weekend Trip to Fairie Tale Farm

My friends and I had an amazing weekend at Susan’s camp. Serenity Ridge had a gorgeous view, late night visits from the horses, and plenty of space away from the other sites for privacy. This site had both flat, open space as well as covered wooded area. Susan was extremely responsive and provided all the potable water & fire we needed at no additional cost. Looking forward to coming back again soon.

3 nights at Fairie Tale Farm

Phenomenal camping spot with a very kind and accommodating host. We loved the quiet serene of Susan’s property with options for activities just a quick walk down the hill. We will be back for sure.

Weekend Trip to RoundStone

This camp site was a bit far from the others and a bit exposed during the day but there was a path we were able to go down to the water in and great at night to see stars

Weekend Trip to RoundStone

Site was great, as advertised, would return. Only downside was that neighboring properties went hard with fireworks for 4th of July.

Weekend Trip to RoundStone

We loved camping here! We had Tent Site #1 which had plenty of room for 6 of us. It was secluded and the water accessibility was so lovely. Literally my only complaints were that the campsite was covered with gravel which my little dog’s feet didn’t love (or my bare feet!), and that there seemed to a very large family that came through to use the grassy area and tent site near the waterfall cabin for day use only, which took away from some of the amenities that paid campers were entitled to. Other than that, we’ll absolutely be back again!

2 nights at RoundStone

Bullpine was wonderful. We had a lovely spot for the tent and hammock nestled in the trees and our kids could play in the meadow or at the creek and still be within earshot. It exceeded our expectations and we can't wait to return.

Weekend Trip to Mulberry Acres

My son and I had an incredible time camping at Emu Overlook in our small travel trailer! Theresa and her husband were truly amazing hosts. They greeted us upon arrival, showing us our site, water access, and the toilet facilities. We especially loved the farm tour, where my son had a blast meeting all the animals. Our campsite was beautiful and well-equipped with a fire pit, picnic table, and a nice bench. There was plenty of room for our small trailer, making it a perfectly secluded spot. We really enjoyed exploring the trails and snacking on the wild berries along the paths. A fantastic spot I'd highly recommend!

Weekend Trip to RoundStone

Nice surroundings and spacing between camps. My son didnt want to leave!

Weekend Trip to RoundStone

Great campground with a great host. Will plan on going back soon!

3 nights at RoundStone

We tried so many camping sites in the past elsewhere and this one was our favorite! Absolutely magical place and there was nothing else we needed. Site 3 is surrounded by trees,has a creek literally couple feet away,gorgeous bigger creek further on and fantastic peace! We had friends camping for the first time as family and we were so happy we could give them such good quality experience. This is a hidden gem and we will be coming back every year from now on, more researching and dissapointments!

Weekend Trip to Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

Chris and Jackie were great hosts! We ended up renting the entire property for the weekend and they were communicative from start to finish as we found a booking to meet our needs. A beautiful and well maintained property with well seasoned hardwood available for great fires. Highly recommend!

2 nights at 100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

great view, lovely site—close enough to downtown Jim Thorpe as well

2 nights at River Mountain Outdoors

We loved and enjoyed our time at the creek front campground. Doug was an excellent host showing us all the amenities on site when we arrived. His land was a peaceful and majestic little campground. You’ll fall in love with the tranquil sounds of the flowing creek while laying in a hammock or being lulled to sleep at night. We were visited by beautiful colorful dragonflies and even a turtle. This was a relaxing getaway that I can’t wait to get back to. Thank you so much Doug for sharing your space.

Weekend Trip to 100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

Great experience. Road in campground was a little rough . Please put slow closing door mechanism on the porta potties. We have a bathroom in our rv but were next to a porta potty that was like a slamming round the clock banging

1 night at Pocono Point

Great location for us, as we were heading to the NASCAR Race! We lucked out and got a shady spot for the afternoon but in the morning not so much! Left early to the race anyway! Nice having the river right there also! The host was very helpful when we had any questions.

Weekend Trip to Camp Dietrich on Bear Creek

Gorgeous campsites, well-equipped, and awesome hosts. We've been here twice, and we will be back!

Top-rated campgrounds near Ricketts Glen State Park

97%

(303)

100 Mile View Camping, Jim Thorpe

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

You can get directions to 100 Mile View Camping by using Google Maps or Apple Maps, "100 Mile View Camping". 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.

88%

(73)

Pocono Point

36 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.

98%

(258)

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

Booked 1 time

Little Bear Camp

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Dushore, PA

Welcome to Little Bear Cabin - a tiny cabin, a retreat nestled in nature minutes from the quaint town of Dushore. Worlds End State Park, Ricketts Glen are a short drive away. If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is the perfect place for you. Unwind on the outdoor deck, surrounded by tall trees. It's the ideal spot to enjoy your morning coffee or relax with a good book. As the sun sets, gather around the fire pit for s'mores under the stars The space This is a tiny cabin located on over an acre of private land. The cabin is located 10 minutes from the quaint town of Dushore, Pa. The cabin has one queen, bed, T.V, and small bathroom with composting toilet. The shower is an outdoor shower. The location of the cabin is a nature lover's dream. Explore the nearby hiking trails that lead to breathtaking vistas. This is the perfect getaway for couples who just want some peace and quiet. The cabin is remotely located but close to many places!! We just added fast starlink internet. So bring your work if you must. There is no concern for connectivity. A short drive to: Ricketts Glen State Park Worlds End State Park The town of Dushore Lackawanna State Park Loyalsock State Forest Forksville High Knob Overlook Lopez Winery There is an outdoor heated shower which is perfect for those connecting to nature. Dogs are welcome. There will Be a $75 doggie stay fee added. Guest access The entire property. Other things to note This cabin is located rurally. You will be traveling on a gravel Road for about 1 mile.

98%

(60)

Peters Sawmill

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents15 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.

100%

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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

100%

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RoundStone

15 sites · Lodging, Tents400 acres · Weatherly, PA

Rustic tent sites and log cabins on nearly 400 acres nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. 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 READ BELOW AND READ EACH SITE DESCRIPTION BEFORE BOOKING*** - Our tent sites are rustic with NO electric or running water. Cabins have electric, but no indoor plumbing. 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 for tent campers but we allow responsible use of the stream for cleaning. Cabins have a rustic outdoor shower available May-October. Please inquire for camper vans and pop ups. - 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. Keep your coolers in your vehicles and take garbage to the dumpster frequently. We have a dumpster available to you on the grounds. -Check in is contactless. Upon booking, you will receive directions to your site. **If you would like to stay for one night during the week or one night on a weekend during November-April, please get in touch and I can adjust the booking specifications. Otherwise, weekends are typically a two night minimum. Memorial Day Weekend and Labor Day Weekend are a three night minimum **

97%

(32)

West Creek Campground

15 sites · Lodging68 acres · Benton, PA

West Creek Campground is your premier glamping experience. With different sites to choose from and customizable levels of comfort, you are able to enjoy all that nature has to offer without compromising your needs. West Creek offers camping sites, canvas tents, Cabin and small huts! Only 8 miles from Ricketts Glen and with tons of other activities on our grounds and around us, it's the perfect nature getaway!

99%

(260)

River Mountain Outdoors

5 sites · Lodging, Tents83 acres · Mainville, 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

97%

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Close to Ricketts Glen State Park

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Hunlock Creek, PA

This is Prime Agruculture. We sit on 6 acres of Beautiful land Surrounded by Trees, Birds, Starry Nights and Clear Sunny Days. We have a little bit of every wild life around our area. People love coming here because it is a piece of serenity, private and friendly. Please come join us. We are welcoming people. Close to Ricketts Glen State Park. Any Animal You Bring goes when you go. You DON'T Leave any animal unattended. Area surrounded by nature! Have a fire for you and your family. Cook on The Grills That we Provide. Buy a Bundle of wood to enjoy the true experience in camping. Sit under the canopy listen to music. Go for walks in the Rustic Woods. Go for a Hike up at Ricketts Glen State Park. Go Kayaking, Fishing, Boating, hike the River lands flea markets, antiquing theres lots to do.

91%

(28)

Lehigh Gap view at Josephine’s Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Palmerton, PA

Breathtaking view of the Lehigh Gap at the Poconos mountains. 11 acres with access to a heated swimming pool and a breathtaking view of the gap in Palmerton, PA Close to the city of Palmerton and 6 miles away from Jim Thorpe. Appalachian hiking trails nearby, D&L biking trails and whitewater rafting at the Lehigh river

100%

(87)

Fairie Tale Farm

11 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.

Camping in 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.

98%

43 ratings · 10 reviews

Recommends

· May 2019

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

Literally love Rickets Glen so much! The waterfall trail is spectacular and the lake kayaking is always fun!

Erin O.

2 reviews

Recommends

· January 2019

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

There is no cell service in the park.

Gary G.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· October 2018

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

waterfalls woooooo

Ryan B.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· September 2018

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

Avoid weekends, better to camp in private site call redrock camping near the park. 15 a night.

David D.

6 years on Hipcamp

August 2018

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

Watch out for bears! We came back from a hike to find a bear in our campsite. Luckily our dog chased him up a tree & guarded our site for the rest of the stay. Campsites are typical what you'd expect from a state park. Clean, decent size, busy, little privacy. But worth it to see the falls & local wildlife!

Megan M.

9 years on Hipcamp

October 2017

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

Very nice campground albeit a bit spendy for a basic campground, especially if you are from out of state. The waterfall hike is amazing, but be careful if it has been raining recently as most of the trail is slickrock. Restrooms are clean, showers are not very hot, and the sites are a bit cramped.

Noah T.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2017

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

Beautiful park but rangers are very nosy here

Rachel G.

8 years on Hipcamp

November 2015

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

Great park, the hiking is challenging with a lot of waterfalls along the way. Campground lacks privacy in the middle of the site so try to stay around the edges. The lake was drained when I was there so I'd check ahead.

Erin O.

9 years on Hipcamp

August 2015

Ricketts Glen Park Campground

With clean bathrooms, spacious campsites and over 20 waterfalls within a 7 mile hike, there is something for everyone at Ricketts Glen State Park. The ranger's are very attentive and frequently make rounds. Very pet friendly. Be sure to hike the Falls Trail to see 24 stunning waterfalls ranging in drop-off from 15 to over 90 feet.

Brittany J.

2 reviews

May 2015

For an ambitious hike to take in all the waterfalls at once, park at route 118, hike the falls trail to waters meet and take a left up Ganoge Glen, you will then follow Highland Trail to Leigh Glen and back down, 2nd half of hike will be downhill!