How much does camping cost at Ricketts Glen State Park?

Camping fees at Ricketts Glen State Park range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Ricketts Glen State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Ricketts Glen State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Ricketts Glen State Park before I book?

Yes! Ricketts Glen State Park has 12 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Ricketts Glen State Park?

Ricketts Glen State Park is open Summer months are noted as peak season for camping.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Ricketts Glen State Park?

Yes, Ricketts Glen State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Ricketts Glen State Park?

Fire policies at Ricketts Glen State Park: Campfires are allowed; food storage rules apply to deter bears.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Ricketts Glen State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Ricketts Glen State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Ricketts Glen State Park?

Ricketts Glen State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Ricketts Glen State Park?

Popular activities at Ricketts Glen State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Ricketts Glen State Park

4.47

78 reviews

695 STATE ROUTE 487, BENTON, Pennsylvania, 17814, United States

Top 1% in PASummer

Scenic ViewsGreat HikingSummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Pennsylvania

Real-Time Availability

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Quick Facts

2,208 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Peak camping seasons...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Ricketts Glen State Park

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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,208 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Peak camping seasons...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Ricketts Glen State Park

Get Directions

Ricketts Glen State Park

$0.00 - $64.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cabin rates are listed as $64 per night, but additional campsite-specific rates are not explicitly stated. Some amenities like boat or kayak rental...

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Campground Map

695 STATE ROUTE 487, BENTON, Pennsylvania, 17814, United States

Ricketts Glen State Park

695 STATE ROUTE 487, BENTON, Pennsylvania, 17814, United States

Nearby places

Bloomsburg (30 miles), Dushore (distance not provided), Red Rock (distance not provided)

Nearby supplies

Food concessions/store are available within the campground

additional supply locations not specified.

Driving directionsThe park is 30 miles north of Bloomsburg on PA 487. The section of PA 487 from the town of Red Rock to the Lake Jean area of the park is a very steep road. Heavy trailer units should avoid this hill and enter the park by taking PA 487 south from Dushore.

The road access via PA 487 from Red Rock is described as very steep, which may pose challenges for heavy trailer units. Alternative access from PA 487 south from Dushore is recommended for easier navigation.

Weather at Ricketts Glen State Park

Best Time to Camp at Ricketts Glen State Park

Summer brings the most reliable conditions for the Falls Trail and lake activities. Daytime highs reach the mid-60s to mid-70s at the park's elevation, with nights cooling into the 40s and 50s. Water levels on the falls are pleasant, trails stay busy, and all amenities run full tilt. Winter transforms the waterfalls into frozen columns and blankets the forest in snow, though trails become treacherous and many facilities close. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but variable conditions: mud, ice, or sudden weather shifts that can complicate the steeper trail sections.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 1% in PA

Peak season for Falls Trail, boating and swimming; reviewers note best conditions but heavy demand.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Summer months are noted as peak season for camping.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak camping seasons are noted to be popular in summer, as the park is described to always be sold out during this time. Seasonal closures not specifically noted.

About Ricketts Glen State Park

Ricketts Glen State Park sits at 2,208 feet elevation in northeastern Pennsylvania, near Benton, where 22 named waterfalls cascade through old growth forest. The park draws hikers to its famous Falls Trail and swimmers to Lake Jean's beach. Campsites accommodate tents, RVs, and primitive camping, with electric hookups and a dump station available. Weekends book months ahead, especially in summer.

Ricketts Glen offers diverse camping options, including primitive, RV, tent, and group camping. Cabins and deluxe camping cottages enhance accommodation variety.

Historical Significance

The Glens Natural Area holds National Natural Landmark status, designated for its old growth forest and waterfall ecosystem. This recognition underscores the area's ecological value as one of Pennsylvania's most intact forested landscapes.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable conditions for the Falls Trail and lake activities. Daytime highs reach the mid-60s to mid-70s at the park's elevation, with nights cooling into the 40s and 50s. Water levels on the falls are pleasant, trails stay busy, and all amenities run full tilt. Winter transforms the waterfalls into frozen columns and blankets the forest in snow, though trails become treacherous and many facilities close. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but variable conditions: mud, ice, or sudden weather shifts that can complicate the steeper trail sections.

ElevationThe park's dramatic topography creates an adventurous landscape where ancient hillsides rise and fall in spectacular fashion. Steep terrain challenges hikers along winding trails, while mountain roads curve through varying elevations, offering glimpses of the dramatic vertical world that makes this park a geological marvel and a testament to the power of natural forces.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park's waterfalls thunder through rock gorges carved into ancient bedrock, dropping over moss-covered ledges where hemlocks and hardwoods crowd the slopes. Lake Jean provides a quieter contrast: calm water for kayaking and fishing, with a sandy beach tucked against wooded shorelines. The old growth timber here includes trees centuries old, shading trails that climb and descend through terrain sculpted by millennia of water erosion. Wildlife moves through this habitat year-round, from black bears (serious enough that campers store food carefully) to birds of prey overhead.

Geological RegionRicketts Glen State Park occupies a remarkable geological wonderland where millions of years of natural forces have sculpted a masterpiece of stone and water. Here, wild waterfalls thunder through rock-strewn gorges carved deep into the earth, while old growth forests thrive on ancient bedrock. This unique ecosystem supports an incredible diversity of wildlife, from elusive woodland creatures to soaring birds of prey, all thriving in this geological treasure trove where water, stone, and life converge in spectacular harmony.

Scenic ViewsViews include the 94-foot Ganoga Falls and other waterfalls along the Falls Trail, as well as Lake Jean.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging options range from camping cabins to deluxe camping cottages. Cabins are described as clean and well-maintained. One camper referred to them as a 'glamper's dream' for $64 a night, while another highlighted the peaceful atmosphere in the family cabin area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

8:00 AM

Check-out

10:00 PM

Stay Limit

Permits specify no more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per site.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Permits specify no more than one family unit or five unrelated persons per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground spreads across multiple loops, with the big loop featuring the largest and most level pads. Spacing varies: sites near facilities cluster closer together, while others offer more buffer room. Terrain is generally level where campers park, though the surrounding forest adds natural screening in some areas.

Reservation PlatformsAdvance reservations are advised, especially for summer weekends, but booking platforms (e.g., website or third-party services) not explicitly stated.

Walk-in AvailabilityPark reviews suggest that sites are highly sought after, especially during summer and weekends, but walk-up availability specifics are not stated.

Cancellation PolicyRules for permit violations include potential revocation, citation, and immediate vacating of the site, but explicit cancellation deadlines are not listed.

AccessibilityThe park includes handicap-accessible picnic sites, restrooms, and trails, as highlighted in user reviews and official descriptions.

Site SizeCampground has large and level sites, particularly in the big loop area. One user noted, 'Our lot was huge, level, & beautiful.

PrivacyCampsites provide varying levels of privacy, with those near bathrooms being noisier due to families with young children. Sites on the big loop are quieter and more spacious.

Recommended SitesSite 32 is described as the worst site in the campground.

Best CampsitesThe big loop offers larger, more level sites with better spacing between neighbors. Sites near bathrooms see more noise from families with young children. Campers looking for quiet should aim for the big loop's interior spots, which provide more distance from high-traffic areas.

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Amenities available

Ricketts Glen State Park offers a diverse set of amenities catering to a variety of visitors, including hikers, campers, and families. Key facilities include restrooms with flush toilets, showers, accessible restrooms, a food concession/store, picnic areas, and picnic pavilions. Visitors can rent boats and kayaks, and a public boat launch is also available. The campground includes a dump station, pet-friendly camping areas, and deluxe camping cottages. Additionally, there are organized group tenting areas, accessible trails, and facilities for snowmobiling during winter months.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Lodging and accommodations

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The park is renowned for its outdoor activities, particularly hiking, with its iconic Falls Trail System featuring 22 named waterfalls. Other activities include boating, fishing, swimming at Lake Jean, and seasonal snowmobiling. Wildlife viewing is excellent, and the park is known for its serene natural environment.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention bear sightings, steep trails requiring caution, and the possibility of treacherous conditions during wet weather.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed; food storage rules apply to deter bears.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 9 PM to 8 AM.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station available within the park, contactable at 5704775675. Hospital or police station locations not specified.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal facilities are on-site. One user mentioned the park's cleanliness: 'Not a piece of trash in sight.'

Water FeaturesLake Jean and waterfalls along the Falls Trail are notable nearby water features.

Camp HostPark rangers are noted to patrol the area for safety and bear management.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

78 reviews

Recommended

Ricketts Glen State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews praise the park's natural beauty, highlighting waterfalls, well-maintained trails, and the serenity of Lake Jean. Criticisms center on issues like lack of cell service and occasional bathroom cleanliness. One visitor noted, 'The campground and trail bathrooms were all absolutely disgusting and in dire need of cleaning.'

Review Summaries

Based on 78 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors emphasize the spectacular waterfalls, well-maintained hiking trails, and the peaceful atmosphere. 'This state park is a must to visit,' one camper remarked, while others appreciated the...

Based on 78 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include lack of cell service, dirty bathrooms, and goose droppings on the beach. Some trails are described as challenging or poorly marked, with one user recounting a terrifying...

Based on 78 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 32 is noted as the worst site by one reviewer. The big loop offers larger, quieter sites closer to nature.

Based on 78 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend booking campsites months in advance due to high demand, especially in summer. Hiking enthusiasts should wear proper footwear, and campers are advised to store food securely due to...

Based on 78 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with reviews describing it as 'always sold-out' and emphasizing the need for early reservations. Winter visitors highlight the beauty of snow-covered trails but...

Based on 78 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The Falls Trail offers breathtaking views of more than 20 waterfalls, each with its own unique charm.' - Asif Raza 2. 'If you follow the rules and keep your food locked up... bears won’t bother...

Based on 78 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as ramps and handicap-accessible picnic areas are appreciated. A reviewer highlighted the park's inclusivity for visitors with disabilities.

Based on 78 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park is pet-friendly, with designated camping areas for visitors with pets. Reviews frequently mention the presence of dogs on trails and in campgrounds.

Based on 78 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Hikers who can snag a big-loop site will get the most room and the least noise. The Falls Trail to 94-foot Ganoga Falls is the main event, and Lake Jean adds kayak rentals, fishing, and a beach within walking distance of camp.

Skip if

No cell service is total here, AT&T included. Remote workers or anyone who needs connectivity should plan elsewhere. Bathroom cleanliness gets repeated complaints, and avoid site 32.

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Loyalsock State Forest

6735 Route 220, Dushore, Pennsylvania, 18614, United States

Loyalsock State Forest offers four primitive campsites scattered across roughly 2,000 feet of elevation in Pennsylvania's Endless Mountains near Dushore. These dispersed sites sit within a landscape carved by ancient glaciers, where northern hardwood forests meet headwater streams and waterfalls. There are no bathroom facilities. Expect true backcountry conditions with fire rings and picnic tables but little else.