Pines Campground

For residents of Pennsylvania looking to immerse themselves in the deep woods of the Pocono Plateau, Pines Campground offers a classic, back-to-basics outdoor experience. Located within the sprawling 3,000-acre Promised Land State Park in Palmyra Township, this campground is a favorite for those who prefer the sounds of rustling hemlocks over the hum of electricity. As part of a park surrounded by over 12,000 acres of the Delaware State Forest, Pines Campground serves as a serene gateway for local families and nature enthusiasts to reconnect with the natural heritage of Pike County. Its reputation is built on providing a "true" camping atmosphere where the focus remains on the campfire, the lake, and the stars.

The campground is specifically designed for "purist" campers, offering a rustic environment that encourages traditional outdoor skills. While many modern sites favor large RV configurations with full hookups, Pines Campground maintains a dedicated space for those using tents or smaller trailers who seek a more authentic connection to the environment. The forest canopy here consists primarily of beech, oak, maple, and majestic hemlocks, providing ample shade and a sense of seclusion even during the peak summer months. For Pennsylvanians who grew up camping in the state park system, a stay at the Pines feels like a return to a simpler era of outdoor recreation.

Location and accessibility are among the greatest draws for this specific area. Pines Campground is situated at the northwestern end of Promised Land Lake within Palmyra Township, Greentown, PA 18426. It is strategically positioned to be the closest camping area to the park's main day-use area and public beach. For local users traveling from Scranton or Wilkes-Barre, the park is a convenient 45-minute to one-hour drive via I-84. Residents from the Lehigh Valley or Philadelphia find it an easy northern trek, typically reaching the park within two to three hours. Its proximity to the popular Lake Wallenpaupack area—just a short 15-minute drive away—allows guests to enjoy the tranquility of a state park while remaining close to the larger boating and dining attractions of the region.

Accessing the campsites is straightforward, with paved park roads leading to the various loops. While the campground feels remote, it is well-connected to the rest of the park's amenities via a network of trails. A paved walking and biking trail leads directly from the campground to the picnic area and the main swimming beach, making it highly accessible for families with small children or those with strollers. The campground is officially open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, perfectly aligned with the traditional Pennsylvania summer vacation season.

The services offered at Pines Campground are tailored to support a rustic stay while ensuring basic comfort and hygiene. Unlike "wild" or primitive camping, guests here benefit from professionally maintained facilities that meet Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) standards. The campground operates on a reservation system, though unreserved sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis during the mid-week periods.

• 58 rustic, non-electric campsites suitable for tents and smaller camping units.
• Modern restrooms equipped with flush toilets and sinks for guest convenience.
• Several manual water pumps located throughout the campground loops providing potable water.
• Access to pay-per-use hot showers located in the nearby Day Use Area.
• On-site parking for one vehicle per campsite, with additional overflow parking available for a fee.
• ADA accessible campsites designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
• Access to the park's environmental education programs, which are offered from April through October.
• Standard park maintenance including trash removal and fire ring cleaning between guest arrivals.

The features and highlights of Pines Campground center on its integration with the landscape of Promised Land State Park. Being at the edge of the northwestern end of the lake, it offers unique opportunities for wildlife watching and water-based activities. The area is known for its frequent sightings of white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and the occasional black bear, making it an exciting spot for families to teach children about local fauna. The layout of the campground promotes a quiet environment, with strictly enforced quiet hours from 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM to preserve the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

• Proximity to the Promised Land Lake beach, allowing for easy daily swimming and sunbathing access.
• Direct access to over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from the easy "Conservation Island" loop to more rugged forest treks.
• A dedicated boat mooring area nearby for campers who bring their own non-powered or electric-powered watercraft.
• Excellent shoreline fishing opportunities for largemouth and smallmouth bass, pickerel, and yellow perch.
• Large, level campsites with established fire rings and heavy-duty picnic tables.
• A family-friendly environment that is noted for being "good for kids" with plenty of open space for exploration.
• Shaded sites that remain significantly cooler than the surrounding valley areas during Pennsylvania's humid summers.
• Close proximity to the Masker Museum, one of the largest CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) museums in the state.

To arrange a stay at Pines Campground, reservations should be made through the official Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center. Because this is one of the most popular loops due to its beach proximity, booking in advance—up to 11 months ahead—is highly recommended for holiday weekends.

• Physical Address: 100 Lower Lake Rd, Greentown, PA 18426 (Palmyra Township)
• Reservation Phone: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)
• Park Office Phone: (570) 676-3428
• Check-in Time: 3:00 PM | Check-out Time: 3:00 PM

What is worth choosing about Pines Campground is the specific balance it strikes between convenience and seclusion. For a local Pennsylvania family, it offers the ability to walk to a beach, use a clean flush toilet, and yet feel completely disconnected from the digital world and the stresses of urban life. Choosing this campground means choosing a location where the night sky is truly dark and the morning air is crisp and pine-scented. It is the ideal choice for those who view camping as an opportunity to simplify their routine and enjoy the basic pleasures of outdoor living.

Furthermore, the value of staying in a state-managed facility like Pines Campground cannot be overstated. The presence of park rangers and camp hosts provides a level of security and assistance that is perfect for families. Whether you are teaching your children how to build their first campfire or spending the day kayaking the pristine waters of Promised Land Lake, this campground provides the factual, safe, and beautiful backdrop you need. It is a quintessential Pennsylvania destination that honors the state’s long-standing tradition of accessible, high-quality outdoor recreation for everyone.