Tobyhanna Organized Group Tenting Area

For large organizations, school groups, and multi-family reunions in Pennsylvania, finding a space that can accommodate everyone under one canopy of stars is essential. The Tobyhanna Organized Group Tenting Area, situated within the expansive 5,440-acre Tobyhanna State Park, is a dedicated facility designed specifically for this purpose. Unlike individual family campsites, this area is reserved for organized groups that need the space and privacy to conduct meetings, team-building exercises, or traditional outdoor educational programs. Nestled in the scenic plateau of the Pocono Mountains, this campground provides a rustic yet structured environment where groups can immerse themselves in the natural heritage of Monroe and Wayne counties.

The name "Tobyhanna" is derived from an American Indian word meaning "a stream whose banks are fringed with alder," and the organized group tenting area lives up to this peaceful imagery. It is separated from the modern, high-traffic RV loops to ensure that group activities do not disturb other park visitors, and vice versa. This separation allows for a more focused and communal experience, whether your group is a scout troop practicing wilderness survival or a social club enjoying a weekend of hiking and camaraderie. The atmosphere is one of rugged simplicity, encouraging a direct connection with the environment while providing the basic infrastructure necessary for group safety and comfort.

The Tobyhanna Organized Group Tenting Area is conveniently located off PA-423 in Tobyhanna, PA 18466. For Pennsylvania residents, this location is a primary asset, as it sits just 2.1 miles north of the community of Tobyhanna and is easily accessible via Interstate 380 and Interstate 84. This makes it a straightforward destination for groups traveling from the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, as well as those coming from the Lehigh Valley or Philadelphia. The entrance to the group area is situated near the camper storage and is adjacent to Lot #4, placing it within a short distance of the park's main office and recreational hubs.

In terms of regional accessibility, the campground is positioned at a high elevation of nearly 2,000 feet above sea level. This results in a unique microclimate where temperatures are often 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the surrounding valleys, a feature that local Pennsylvanians particularly appreciate during the humid summer months. The area is served by paved roads leading to the general vicinity, though the specific group sites are designed as walk-to or hike-in locations, typically requiring a short walk of 100 to 300 feet from the designated parking area. This ensures that the camping loop remains free of vehicle traffic, enhancing the safety of younger campers and the overall tranquility of the site.

The services offered at the Tobyhanna Organized Group Tenting Area are intentionally rustic to preserve the "wild" feel of the Poconos, yet they provide the fundamental necessities for large-scale outdoor living. It is important to note that this area is specifically for organized groups—defined as those with a formal organization, leadership, and periodic meetings. The following services are available to support these groups:

• Year-round site availability, making this one of the few locations in the state park system where groups can experience the Poconos in all four seasons.
• Dedicated site reservations through the ReserveAmerica system, allowing groups to plan their excursions up to 11 months in advance.
• Waste management services, including access to a sanitary dump station located near the main campground entrance for groups utilizing support vehicles.
• Potable water access via a hand-operated water pump located centrally within the group tenting loop.
• Professional park management and ranger patrols to ensure the safety of all guests and the enforcement of park regulations.
• Informational support at the nearby park office, where groups can obtain trail maps and learn about the unique history and geology of the region.

The highlights of the group tenting area are centered on its capacity and its integration with the broader state park amenities. These features make it a standout choice for anyone tasked with organizing a large-scale outdoor event. Key highlights include:

• Five distinct group sites: Sites #1 through #4 can accommodate up to 20 people each, while Site #5 is larger, holding up to 40 people. For very large gatherings, sites can be combined to host a total of 120 campers.
• Large on-site playfields located within the group area, providing ample space for sports, ceremonies, or group exercises.
• Rustic amenities at each site, including multiple picnic tables, heavy-duty fire rings with built-in grills, and charcoal BBQ grills for group meal preparation.
• Vault toilets located within the group loop, providing convenient and private sanitation facilities separate from the main public restrooms.
• Immediate access to the 5.1-mile Lakeside Trail, which offers scenic views and a relatively level path for group hikes and mountain biking.
• Proximity to the 170-acre Tobyhanna Lake, which features a sandy swimming beach and boat rentals (canoes, rowboats, and kayaks) available from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
• Educational opportunities through the park's interpretive programs and self-guided walks, focusing on the local flora, fauna, and the area's history as a former military artillery range.

To reserve a space for your organization or to inquire about specific group requirements, it is best to contact the Tobyhanna State Park office directly. Because this is a state-managed facility, adherence to the "Organized Group" criteria is required for booking.

Address: PA-423, Tobyhanna, PA 18466, USA

Phone (Main Park Office): (570) 894-8336

When it comes to selecting a group campsite in Pennsylvania, the Tobyhanna Organized Group Tenting Area is worth choosing for its unmatched combination of capacity and natural beauty. For many local leaders, the "organized group only" designation is a significant selling point; it ensures that your neighbors will be other like-minded organizations, creating a respectful and orderly environment. The availability of on-site playfields is a rare feature that makes this site particularly valuable for youth organizations that require space for physical activities or scout ceremonies.

Furthermore, the location is a factual treasure for nature lovers. Having nearly 5,500 acres of state forest land as your backyard allows groups to conduct extensive nature studies and long-distance hikes without ever leaving the park boundaries. The fact that the area is open year-round also makes it a prime choice for winter camping enthusiasts who want to enjoy snowshoeing or ice fishing on Tobyhanna Lake. By choosing this state park facility, you are opting for a safe, well-managed, and affordable Pennsylvania tradition that has been fostering a love for the outdoors in generations of campers. Whether you are planning a small scout troop outing or a massive 120-person reunion, Tobyhanna provides the space, the scenery, and the spirit of adventure that the Poconos are famous for.