Camping at Organized Group Tenting Area

Overview

Ricketts Glen State Park, located in northeastern Pennsylvania, is well-known for its scenic views and the famous Falls Trail, which showcases a series of breathtaking waterfalls. It spans more than 13,000 acres across Luzerne, Sullivan, and Columbia counties. Among its various amenities, the park offers Organized Group Tenting Areas designed to accommodate larger groups seeking to immerse themselves in the beautiful outdoor setting.

Organized Group Tenting Areas

These specialized camping areas are designated for use by organized adult or youth groups. Unlike individual camping sites, these areas are meant to cater to the needs of scouts, church groups, clubs, or other organizations.

Reservations and Capacity

Reservations:

• Reservations for the Organized Group Tenting Areas are typically required and can usually be made up to 11 months in advance.
• Groups can reserve these areas by visiting the Pennsylvania State Park Reservation System or by contacting the park office directly.

Capacity:

• Each Organized Group Tenting Area has a specific capacity limit, which indicates the number of individuals it can comfortably accommodate.
• It's important to know the size of your group and ensure the tenting area you reserve can accommodate everyone.

Amenities

Basic Amenities:

• The Organized Group Tenting Areas generally include basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby access to potable water and latrines.

Other Facilities:

• While the level of amenities may vary, some group tenting areas may offer additional facilities like pavilions or easy access to trails.

Rules and Regulations

Supervision:

• Youth groups must have adequate adult supervision, with guidelines typically provided by the park for the ratio of adults to youth participants.

Pets:

• In many state parks, pets may be restricted or prohibited in Organized Group Tenting Areas, so it's crucial to review the park's pet policy beforehand.

Alcohol:

• Alcohol consumption is usually prohibited in Pennsylvania state parks, including Ricketts Glen.

Quiet Hours:

• Observing quiet hours is important. These are typically enforced to ensure that all guests have an enjoyable and peaceful experience.

Safety and Conservation

Fires:

• Fires should only be built in designated fire rings or pits, and it's important to fully extinguish fires before leaving the site or retiring for the night.

Wildlife:

• Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife to the campsite, and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.

Weather:

• Be prepared for variable weather conditions and ensure group members have appropriate gear for the season.

Activities

Hiking:

• Ricketts Glen State Park offers more than 26 miles of hiking trails, including the challenging Falls Trail.

Water Recreation:

• The park features a beach on Lake Jean for swimming during the summer season, and fishing and boating are also popular activities.

Educational Programs:

• The park may offer educational programs suitable for groups, such as guided walks or nature talks.

Additional Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Organized Group Tenting Areas in Ricketts Glen State Park, contacting the park office directly is recommended. They can provide the latest details on availability, pricing, and any alerts or notices that might affect your camping trip. Their staff can also offer tips and advice for group leaders to ensure a successful and enjoyable outdoor experience.