Tobyhanna Campground

Tobyhanna Campground, an integral part of Tobyhanna State Park in northeastern Pennsylvania, is a popular and highly-rated destination within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category. Situated in the scenic Pocono Mountains, this campground offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and essential amenities, making it a desirable choice for local users seeking a serene yet engaging outdoor experience. As a state park campground, it provides a well-managed and maintained environment for various camping styles.

The environment at Tobyhanna Campground is characterized by its lush, wooded setting and its close proximity to the expansive 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake. The campground itself is primarily forested, offering a good amount of shade and a sense of immersion in nature. Sites are often described as spacious and tree-lined, providing a degree of privacy for campers. The surrounding Tobyhanna State Park encompasses 5,440 acres, largely consisting of dense hardwood forests, low rolling hillsides, and some swampy wetlands. This diverse natural landscape supports a variety of wildlife, enhancing the outdoor experience for visitors interested in birdwatching or wildlife viewing. The lake serves as a focal point, with its tranquil waters reflecting the surrounding trees, creating a picturesque and peaceful atmosphere. Despite its elevated location at nearly 2,000 feet above sea level, which can lead to cool nighttime temperatures even in summer, the natural beauty and fresh air contribute significantly to a refreshing camping environment.

Services at Tobyhanna Campground are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience. The campground features a total of 135 sites, accommodating both tents and trailers/RVs. Campers have the option of choosing between electric and non-electric sites, catering to different preferences and equipment needs. While individual water hookups are generally not available at every site, water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground for potable water access. A sanitary dump station is provided for RVs, located just outside the main campground area. Modern restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers are available in central locations within the campground loops, ensuring essential hygiene facilities are easily accessible and well-maintained. Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, essential for outdoor dining and campfires. A playground is available for children, offering a dedicated space for play and socialization. For those who enjoy boating, the park offers a boat launch and boat mooring facilities on Tobyhanna Lake. There are also designated pet-friendly sites within the campground, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions, although pets must be leashed and are not permitted in swimming areas or buildings. Cell service can be unpredictable in and around the park, so campers are advised to download park maps in advance. During the camping season, firewood and ice are typically available for purchase either at the park office or a designated vendor.

The features of Tobyhanna Campground are strongly linked to the recreational opportunities presented by Tobyhanna Lake and the surrounding state park. The 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake is a central feature, offering a variety of water-based activities. These include swimming at the sandy beach area, which is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through mid-September. Boating is popular, with options for both motorized (electric motors only) and non-motorized vessels like kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Boat rentals may also be available. Fishing is a significant draw, with the lake being a warmwater fishery stocked with species such as bass, pickerel, yellow perch, catfish, and various panfish, as well as stocked brook and brown trout. Beyond the lake, the park boasts over 10 miles of hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. The popular 5.1-mile Lakeside Trail circles the entire lake, offering relatively flat terrain suitable for hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in season. More challenging trails like the Range Trail and Frank Gantz Trail provide opportunities for more strenuous hikes through varied terrain, including wetlands and boulder fields. Picnicking is a popular year-round activity, with four convenient picnic areas equipped with tables and charcoal grills. An ADA-accessible picnic pavilion with electricity can be reserved. During winter months, the park transforms into a hub for cold-weather activities such as ice skating, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling on designated trails. The campground also features a horseshoe pit and volleyball court, adding to the recreational offerings.

Promotional information for Tobyhanna Campground emphasizes its role as an accessible and activity-rich state park camping experience. The campground is open seasonally, typically from mid-April to mid-October. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends), and can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system (ReserveAmerica.com or by phone). It's important to note that unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but campers should check posted instructions at the campground entrance. Pricing is typically competitive, with potential discounts for senior citizens or Access Pass holders. Promotional materials highlight the park's convenient location in the Pocono Mountains, within reasonable driving distance from major metropolitan areas, making it an ideal weekend getaway. Visitors are advised to check the park's official website and alerts for any current advisories, such as the upcoming lake rehabilitation project from Spring 2026 to December 31st, 2027, which will result in the lake being drawn down and closed for swimming, boating, and fishing activities. Despite this temporary closure of lake access, the camping area and hiking trails will remain open. Reviews often praise the campground's cleanliness, the friendly staff, and the overall peaceful ambiance. The variety of site types (electric/non-electric, pet-friendly sections) is also a point of promotion, allowing campers to choose the best fit for their needs. The comprehensive range of activities, from lake recreation to extensive trail systems and winter sports, ensures that Tobyhanna Campground remains a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.