Carpenter Town Camping

For outdoor enthusiasts in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Carpenter Town Camping represents one of the most versatile and well-positioned sections of the renowned Lackawanna State Park. Located in Dalton, PA, this camping loop is often cited as a favorite for local families and organized groups due to its unique blend of traditional camping and modern "glamping" options. Nestled within a lush, mature forest, the Carpenter Town area offers a sense of deep-woods seclusion while remaining within a short walk of the park's most popular day-use facilities. Whether you are looking to pitch a tent under a canopy of hardwoods or prefer the comfort of a heated yurt, this section of the park caters to every level of outdoor comfort.

The atmosphere at Carpenter Town is professionally maintained and friendly, reflecting the high standards of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). It serves as an ideal base for exploring the 1,445-acre park, which centers around the magnificent 198-acre Lackawanna Lake. For Pennsylvania residents, the park is a cherished local resource where neighbors often gather for weekend retreats, scouts earn their badges, and families create lifelong memories. The campground's reputation for being clean, quiet, and exceptionally well-managed makes it a top-tier choice for anyone visiting the Scranton or Clarks Summit regions.

Carpenter Town Camping is conveniently located within Lackawanna State Park at 1839 Abington Road, Dalton, PA 18414. For those traveling from the Scranton area, the park is a simple ten-mile drive north. Accessibility is a major highlight; the park is easily reached from Interstate 81. Travelers should take Exit 199 and proceed approximately three miles west on PA 524. If you are coming via U.S. Routes 6 and 11, you will take PA 438 east for about three miles to PA 407, turning for the campground and day-use areas.

Once inside the park, the Carpenter Town loop is strategically positioned to be the most accessible section for visitors with diverse needs. It features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and designated ADA-compliant campsites and facilities. Its location is particularly advantageous for those with children, as it is the loop closest to the park’s main playground and the large swimming pool complex. The roads within the campground are paved and well-maintained, facilitating easy movement for large camper vehicles and trailers.

• Diverse lodging options including traditional tent sites, walk-in tent sites, and large RV-compatible spaces.
• Three modern camping cottages equipped with wooden walls, electric lights, outlets, and bunk beds.
• Two round yurts featuring a wooden deck, refrigerator, microwave, and electric heat for a more comfortable stay.
• Clean public restrooms and modern shower houses with warm water, located conveniently within the loop.
• Sanitary dump station located near the campground entrance for RV travelers.
• Standard utility offerings at many sites, including 30-amp or 50-amp electric hookups.
• On-site parking for visitors and campers, with additional overflow parking available nearby.
• Access to potable water through multiple collection points throughout the camping area.

One of the defining features of Carpenter Town is its proximity to the park’s "active" zones. While some loops in the park are more secluded, Carpenter Town serves as the gateway to the pool and the various playfields. This makes it an excellent choice for groups that want to balance their time between the tranquility of their campsite and the social activities found in the day-use areas.

• Prime access to the swimming pool and splash pad, which open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
• Walking distance to the 198-acre Lackawanna Lake, offering opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
• Close proximity to 18 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Sites equipped with heavy-duty fire rings and picnic tables to facilitate classic campfire cooking and dining.
• An environmental learning center nearby that offers educational programs for all ages throughout the summer.
• A family-friendly environment with a strict focus on quiet hours (9:00 PM to 8:00 AM) to ensure a restful experience for all.
• The "Carpenter Section" specifically offers the greatest selection of camping types in the entire park.

To ensure a smooth visit, it is recommended to make reservations in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system. The park office is available for specific inquiries regarding site dimensions and seasonal availability. Please note that a major campground rehabilitation project is scheduled to begin in September 2026, so travelers should check for the latest updates before planning a late-season trip.

Address: 1839 Abington Road, Dalton, PA 18414, USA

Phone: (570) 945-3239 (Park Office)

Reservation Center: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)

What makes Carpenter Town Camping worth choosing above other regional options is the sheer variety and convenience it offers. It is a location that understands not everyone wants the same type of camping experience. For the purist, the walk-in tent sites provide a rugged escape; for the family with young children, the proximity to the pool and playground is a game-changer; and for those who want the outdoor experience without the hassle of a tent, the yurts and cottages provide a perfect middle ground. The accessibility features ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy the beauty of the Pennsylvania forest.

Furthermore, the value of staying within a State Park cannot be overstated. By choosing Carpenter Town, you gain access to thousands of acres of protected land, professional ranger oversight, and high-quality amenities that are often more affordable than private campgrounds. The clean restrooms and well-maintained sites are consistently praised by real visitors, making it a reliable choice for your next weekend getaway. When you combine the natural beauty of Lackawanna Lake with the modern comforts of the Carpenter Town loop, it becomes clear why this Dalton destination remains a cornerstone of the Pennsylvania camping community.