Must see in mid October!! Breathtaking!
1 / 10

Big Pocono State Park

4.7
·2k reviews·Tannersville, United States

Rugged park atop Camelback Mountain offering stunning panoramic views, hiking trails, and picnic spots.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Spectacular fall foliage

CrowdMedium
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Must see in mid October!! Breathtaking!

Big Pocono State Park

Best Time

Fall mornings

Spectacular fall foliage

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rugged park atop Camelback Mountain offering stunning panoramic views, hiking trails, and picnic spots.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"Breathtaking views and nice walks with wildlife everywhere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Pack for Rocky Trails

Wear sturdy shoes! Some trails, like the Indian Trail, are rocky and involve climbing. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots, especially during autumn. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Vistas

Panoramic Mountain Vistas

Summit of Camelback Mountain

Breathtaking 360-degree views of the Pocono Mountains, especially stunning during fall.

Indian Trail Hike

Indian Trail Hike

Various trailheads

A popular 1.3-mile hike through golden ferns and rocky outcrops with rewarding overlooks.

Scenic Ski Lift Ride

Scenic Ski Lift Ride

Camelback Resort (seasonal)

Enjoy elevated views of the Poconos from July to September on weekends.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Views

For the best panoramic vistas, aim for clear days, especially during fall foliage season. Weekends can get busy, so consider a weekday visit if possible. The park offers a scenic ski lift ride on select summer/fall weekends for elevated views.

Trail Preparedness

While some trails are well-maintained, others can be rocky and require some climbing. Wear sturdy shoes and be aware of potential wildlife warnings. The Indian Trail is a popular choice for a moderate hike with rewarding scenery.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Spectacular fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, great views
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends (July-Sept)
Why
Scenic ski lift operating
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Snowtubing in the pocono mountains 🗻🏂 take a trip to camelback resorts located in poconos pa to go snowtubing with you friends and family #snowtubing #poconos #winteractivities #funthingstodo #snowactivities
@whoiselijahl
147.9K likes • 1.8M views

🎯 Pack for Rocky Trails

Wear sturdy shoes! Some trails, like the Indian Trail, are rocky and involve climbing. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots, especially during autumn. :camerawithflash:

Autumn in poconos mountain = enjoy views and fun ✨ #camelbackmountain #thingstodo #fallactivities #zipline #mountaincoaster
@nicgordonn
45.2K likes • 451.3K views
Take in panoramic fall views from the mountaintop at Big Pocono State Park in Tannersville! Follow the Indian Trail for an easy 1.3-mile hike that winds through golden ferns, rocky outcrops, and sweeping overlooks. 🌳 #DiscoverNEPA 🔔 Remember to always follow DCNR’s “Leave No Trace” guidelines—take only memories, leave only footprints. 🥾 Special thanks to the @padcnr for allowing us to capture ...
discovernepa
115 likes • 7K views

🚗 Parking Lot Variety

Multiple parking lots offer picnic areas and grills. Weekends can be busy. :car:

💰 Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy the park's beauty without an entry fee. Parking is also free! :moneywithwings:

Spent last Saturday hiking to raise money for the @americancancersociety by participating in the @climb2conquercancerpocono! 💪 We started at @camelbackresortpa and climbed to the summit of Big Pocono State Park with an after party that included food and live music. I had a great time hiking with @coach_trish, @kim.hiked.it and @kaitexploresitall. It was also great to catch up and meet other fel...
adventuringwithmaria
0 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Pack for Rocky Trails

Wear sturdy shoes! Some trails, like the Indian Trail, are rocky and involve climbing. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for stunning panoramic shots, especially during autumn. :camerawithflash:

🚗 Parking Lot Variety

Multiple parking lots offer picnic areas and grills. Weekends can be busy. :car:

💰 Free Entry & Parking

Enjoy the park's beauty without an entry fee. Parking is also free! :moneywithwings:

🐍 Wildlife Awareness

Be mindful of wildlife warnings, though snakes are rarely seen. :snake:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, especially during fall. The park is praised for its accessibility with free entry and parking, and its suitability for picnics and leisurely walks. Some reviewers noted that certain facilities, like bathrooms, could be cleaner, and the tower was sometimes gated off.

"Beautiful state park. Great views of the mountains. The tower was gated off and you couldn't go to the top. Celebrated my niece birthday at the park. Bathroom was very dirty. Park was busy with people. Didn't see many trails."

Janet Thomas

"Loved it ! Been going to camelback since I was a kid and never knew about this park above it all , breath taking views and nice walks with wildlife everywhere. There is a ski lift for scenic views from July to September weekends only 10 am to 4 pm , ($15) per person , will be back for that .there are about 4 parking lots to choose from , they all have picnic areas and grills . weekends are busy here . Road is closed in winter months but you can take ski lift from bottom to get to the top. One of my favorites"

Heres Johnnny

"Beautiful point to see many landmarks from this height. It has lot of history and calmness. Come here park your car and sit 🪑 indulge in nature. Picnic 🧺 tables, washrooms, water tap are present here. Garden is good. It has old cabin on the hill top looks very nice 👍.
Helicopter 🚁 pad is also here. Good place for a nice evening walk. It has multiple trails here. Though some warnings of snake 🐍 will scare you we saw none. Entry, Parking everything is free 😊 go and enjoy!
See pics and videos for more details. thanks 🙏👍"

Dilip Tiwari

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Free entry and parking
Picnic areas and grills

What People Dislike

Bathroom cleanliness
Gated tower access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Big Pocono State Park is located at the summit of Camelback Mountain. You can drive directly to the park, with several parking lots available. During winter months, the road may be closed, but you can access the summit via the ski lift from Camelback Resort. Reddit

Yes, there are multiple parking lots available throughout the park, many of which offer picnic areas and grills. Parking is free. Reddit

The main road to Big Pocono State Park is typically closed in winter. However, you can access the summit by taking the ski lift from Camelback Resort during this time. Reddit

While specific RV parking information isn't widely detailed, the park has multiple parking lots. It's advisable to check with park management for any size restrictions if you plan to visit with a large vehicle. Reddit

The park is situated atop Camelback Mountain. Use GPS navigation to 'Big Pocono State Park' or 'Camelback Mountain' for precise directions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Big Pocono State Park offers free entry and free parking, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. Reddit

The park is generally open year-round, but the summit road may close in winter. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check the official park website or local advisories before your visit. Reddit

Yes, the scenic ski lift ride, available on select summer and fall weekends, costs $15 per person. Reddit

There are no age restrictions for entering Big Pocono State Park. It's a family-friendly destination. Reddit

Big Pocono State Park does not require pre-booked time slots for general entry, as it is a public park with free admission. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Indian Trail is highly recommended for its scenic beauty and moderate challenge, featuring rocky paths and rewarding overlooks. Other trails offer varying levels of difficulty. InstagramReddit

You can expect breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Pocono Mountains. The park is renowned for its scenic overlooks, especially during the fall foliage season. InstagramReddit

Yes, many of the parking lots are equipped with picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing or a leisurely lunch. Reddit

The park is considered senior and disability-friendly, with accessible viewing areas and picnic spots. Reddit

While exploring, you might encounter various wildlife. Be aware of posted warnings, though sightings of snakes are uncommon. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants directly within Big Pocono State Park. However, picnic areas with tables and grills are available for visitors to bring their own food. Reddit

Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Grills are also available in designated areas. Reddit

The park is located near Camelback Resort and the town of Tannersville, which offer various dining options ranging from casual eateries to resort restaurants. TikTok

Yes, water taps are available within the park for refilling water bottles. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, large events might require special permits. For casual picnics, bringing your own food is standard. It's best to inquire with park management for specific event catering policies.

📸 📸 Photography

The summit overlooks offer stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. The Indian Trail also provides scenic backdrops with its unique terrain and foliage. Instagram+1

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the expansive views are still impressive. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the latest Pennsylvania State Parks drone policy before flying a drone in the park to ensure compliance. Instagram

Landscape photography, fall foliage shots, and nature photography are very popular. The park's elevation also makes it great for capturing wide vistas. Instagram

Yes, you can photograph wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Big Pocono State Park is a fantastic outdoor escape for families. The picnic areas with grills make it easy to enjoy a meal together amidst nature. Reddit While some trails are rocky, the Indian Trail offers a manageable hike for older children, providing a sense of adventure. InstagramReddit The expansive views from the summit are sure to captivate young minds. For younger children, the open spaces and the novelty of being on a mountaintop can be exciting. Remember to pack snacks and plenty of water. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike, Big Pocono State Park offers rewarding trails. The Indian Trail is a must-do for its scenic beauty and moderate challenge. InstagramReddit The park's summit location provides unique flora and fauna, and the panoramic views are a constant delight. Be prepared for varied terrain and consider bringing a trail map. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of the mountains. Instagram

📸 Photographers and View Seekers

Big Pocono State Park is a photographer's dream, especially during fall foliage season. Instagram The 360-degree vistas from the summit are unparalleled. InstagramReddit Aim for golden hour for the best light. Instagram Even outside of fall, the expansive mountain views offer stunning backdrops for any type of photography. The park is also known for its native plants, offering opportunities for close-up nature shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Big Pocono

Big Pocono State Park offers a variety of trails catering to different fitness levels. The Indian Trail is a standout, a 1.3-mile loop known for its moderate difficulty, characterized by rocky terrain and sections that require some climbing. It winds through beautiful natural scenery, rewarding hikers with stunning overlooks. InstagramReddit Other trails provide opportunities for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some paths can be uneven. Reddit

Beyond the popular Indian Trail, the park provides numerous opportunities for exploration. Visitors can enjoy gentle strolls or more vigorous treks, all while taking in the fresh mountain air and scenic surroundings. The park's natural landscape is diverse, featuring native plants and varied terrain. Instagram Always be aware of your surroundings and any posted wildlife advisories. Reddit The park is a fantastic place to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the Pocono Mountains.

Capturing the Iconic Pocono Panoramas

The summit of Big Pocono State Park is its crown jewel, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the Pocono Mountains. These vistas are particularly spectacular during the autumn months when the foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors. Instagram+1 Photographers and casual visitors alike will find numerous vantage points to capture the sweeping scenery. The park's elevation provides a unique perspective, allowing you to see for miles on a clear day.

For the best photographic opportunities, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and dramatic. Instagram While the park is beautiful year-round, the fall season draws significant crowds for its breathtaking fall colors. InstagramReddit If you're looking for a less crowded experience, weekdays are generally a better choice. The park also offers a scenic ski lift ride on select summer and fall weekends, providing an elevated perspective for photography. Reddit

Winter Activities and Access

While Big Pocono State Park's summit road is typically closed during the winter months due to snow, the spirit of winter fun continues through its proximity to Camelback Resort. TikTok Visitors can still experience the mountain's winter allure by utilizing the ski lift at Camelback Resort. This offers a unique way to reach the summit and enjoy the snowy landscape from above, even when driving access is restricted. Reddit

Camelback Resort is also famous for its snowtubing park, which is one of the largest in the United States. TikTok This offers a thrilling winter activity for families and friends, with numerous lanes of snow-covered excitement. TikTok+1 While not directly within the state park, these winter activities are intrinsically linked to the Camelback Mountain experience, providing ample reasons to visit the area during the colder months.

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