Organized Group Tenting

For scout troops, youth organizations, church groups, or even large gatherings of friends and family across Pennsylvania, finding a dedicated and well-suited camping location can be a challenge. That's where Organized Group Tenting near Lake Rose Dr in Benton, PA, comes in as an invaluable local resource. While "Organized Group Tenting" isn't a standalone commercial campground in the traditional sense, it refers to specific, designated group campsites within Pennsylvania State Parks, most notably associated with the popular Ricketts Glen State Park. This offers a unique opportunity for groups to experience the beauty of Pennsylvania's natural landscapes in a structured and accommodating environment, fostering camaraderie and unforgettable memories right here in your home state.

The Organized Group Tenting area is located near Lake Rose Dr, Benton, PA 17814, USA. This address places it squarely within or immediately adjacent to Ricketts Glen State Park, a jewel in the crown of Pennsylvania's state park system. Ricketts Glen is renowned for its 22 named waterfalls along a series of scenic trails, making it a highly sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For Pennsylvania residents, its location in Luzerne and Sullivan Counties means it's generally accessible from various parts of the state. While it provides a rustic and immersive outdoor experience, access is typically straightforward for multi-passenger vehicles and equipment trailers, with designated parking areas. The proximity to Lake Rose within the park also offers additional recreational opportunities. This blend of natural seclusion and manageable accessibility makes it an excellent choice for groups planning an impactful outing.

The services offered at Organized Group Tenting sites are designed to facilitate group camping, providing essential amenities while maintaining a rustic outdoor feel. These sites are tailored for larger groups, unlike individual family campsites.

• Dedicated Group Tenting Areas: These are specific, large areas designated solely for organized groups, ensuring ample space and privacy for your gathering. They can accommodate varying capacities, from 20 to over 100 people, depending on the specific site within a park.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each organized group tenting site typically comes equipped with multiple picnic tables for dining and gathering, as well as a large fire ring for communal campfires and cooking. Some sites may have a fire circle.
• Toilet Facilities: Depending on the specific group tenting area within a state park, facilities can range from vault toilets to flush toilets. For instance, some areas might have rustic facilities (non-flush toilets) while others, like certain areas at Little Pine State Park, offer flush toilets.
• Potable Water Access: Seasonal water hydrants are usually available near the group tenting areas, providing access to potable water from mid-April to mid-October in most cases.
• Parking Areas: Designated parking lots are available nearby, often spacious enough for multi-passenger vehicles and allowing for equipment trailers to be parked conveniently close to the tenting area or a warming hut, if available.
• Meeting/Warming Hut (at some locations): Certain organized group tenting areas, like those at Oil Creek State Park, may include a warming hut that can be used for programs, meetings, or as shelter during inclement weather. These are typically non-electric.
• Garbage and Recycling: Designated garbage and recycling centers are usually located near campground entrances or within convenient distance for group campers.
• Showers (often with additional fee): While some rustic group areas do not have showers directly on site, campers at organized group tenting areas may often use the main campground showers for an additional fee, providing a welcome option for cleanliness after outdoor activities.

The primary highlight of Organized Group Tenting areas is their unique suitability for large groups combined with access to the natural features of the surrounding state park.

• Ideal for Group Cohesion: The dedicated nature of these sites fosters a sense of community and cohesion for youth groups, scout troops, or large family gatherings, allowing for focused activities and shared experiences away from general public camping.
• Access to Ricketts Glen State Park: For the Organized Group Tenting near Lake Rose Dr, the immediate access to Ricketts Glen State Park is a significant draw. This park is famous for its Falls Trail, featuring 22 spectacular waterfalls (a must-do hike for many).
• Lake Activities: Lake Jean (which Lake Rose feeds into) within Ricketts Glen State Park offers opportunities for swimming at the beach (seasonally), boating (with electric motors or non-motorized boats allowed), and fishing. Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are often available for rent.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Beyond the Falls Trail, Ricketts Glen offers numerous other hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, allowing groups to explore diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas.
• Wildlife Viewing and Nature Exploration: The extensive natural setting provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation, bird watching, and nature studies, perfect for educational components of group programs.
• Educational Programs (within State Park): Many Pennsylvania State Parks offer environmental education and interpretive programs, which groups staying at Organized Group Tenting sites might be able to incorporate into their itinerary.
• Rustic and Immersive Experience: These sites provide a genuine outdoor experience, allowing groups to truly immerse themselves in nature, fostering independence and teamwork.
• Cost-Effective for Groups: The pricing structure for organized group tenting areas is typically per night for a given capacity, making it a very cost-effective lodging solution for large groups compared to individual campsites or cabins.

Organized Group Tenting areas in Pennsylvania State Parks, including those near Lake Rose Dr in Benton, are primarily managed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Their "promotions" are generally tied to their established pricing structure for group use rather than traditional commercial discounts. However, there are inherent benefits and pricing considerations that act as a form of "offer" for Pennsylvania residents:

• Resident vs. Non-Resident Pricing: Pennsylvania residents receive a significantly lower nightly rate for Organized Group Tenting areas compared to non-residents. This is a direct benefit for local users. For instance, a rustic site for 20 people or less might cost $28.00-$38.00 for residents per night, compared to $41.00-$52.00 for non-residents.
• Capacity-Based Tiered Pricing: The pricing scales with the group size (e.g., 20 or less, 21-40, 41-60, 61-100, 101 and over), allowing groups to pay only for the capacity they need. This structured pricing provides transparency and fairness.
• Longer Stay Options: While there are maximum stay limits (e.g., 14 consecutive nights from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 21 nights the rest of the year), the ability to book for extended periods is a valuable feature for multi-day programs or large family reunions.
• Early Reservation Window: Reservations for organized group sites can typically be made well in advance (often up to 11 months), ensuring groups can plan their trips and secure their preferred dates, especially for popular times.
• Affordable Utilities (where available): For modern organized group tenting or cabin camps where utilities are an additional cost, these fees are typically very reasonable, keeping the overall cost for groups low.
• State Park Pass Benefits: While not directly tied to group tenting fees, having a Pennsylvania State Parks Annual Pass can provide benefits for day-use access to other park areas or attractions during the group's stay.

For the most accurate and current pricing, it is essential to consult the official Pennsylvania DCNR website or contact the park office directly.

For reservations, inquiries, or more specific information regarding Organized Group Tenting, particularly those located near Lake Rose Dr within Ricketts Glen State Park, the best approach is to contact the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) or the park office directly.

Address for Ricketts Glen State Park (governing the Lake Rose Dr area): 695 State Route 118, Benton, PA 17814, USA (This is the main park address, as specific contact for "Organized Group Tenting" isn't a separate entity).
Phone for PA State Park Reservations: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757) (Available Monday to Saturday, 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., except holidays). This is the central reservation line for all PA State Park facilities, including organized group sites.

Alternatively, you can contact the Ricketts Glen State Park office directly for specific questions about their facilities, program availability, and local conditions. Always remember to specify you are inquiring about "Organized Group Tenting" when you call.

For Pennsylvania residents, particularly those organizing events for youth groups, clubs, or large family gatherings, the Organized Group Tenting areas—especially those in stunning locations like Ricketts Glen State Park near Lake Rose Dr—are an exceptional and highly suitable option. This dedicated type of camping offers a structured and spacious environment tailored for larger groups, a feature often difficult to find at standard campgrounds.

The inherent benefits for locals include resident-specific pricing, making these experiences more affordable. Furthermore, the convenience of having world-class natural attractions like Ricketts Glen's famous waterfalls and Lake Jean's boating opportunities literally at your doorstep transforms a simple camping trip into an unforgettable adventure. Groups can easily plan educational nature programs, challenging hikes, or relaxing lakeside activities, all within a short drive from home. The provision of essential amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and accessible toilets ensures comfort, while the rustic setting still allows for a true immersion in the wilderness.

For Pennsylvanians looking to foster teamwork, teach outdoor skills, or simply gather a large group for shared outdoor enjoyment, Organized Group Tenting provides the perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and group-friendly facilities. It’s a resource that truly supports community and outdoor exploration within the beautiful landscape of our very own state.

Organized Group Tenting

Lake Rose Dr, Benton, PA 17814, USA