Frances Slocum State Park
00 review565 MT OLIVET ROAD, WYOMING, Pennsylvania, 18644, United States
Frances Slocum State Park
$35.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $35 to $75 depending on the type of site and season.
About this campground
Nestled across 1,035 pristine acres in the heart of Luzerne County, Frances Slocum State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning 165-acre horseshoe-shaped lake and endless recreational possibilities. Whether you're casting a line from the shoreline, paddling across tranquil waters, or exploring winding trails on foot or mountain bike, this Pennsylvania gem offers the perfect escape. The expansive day-use area welcomes families for memorable picnics under towering trees, while nature lovers discover hidden coves and peaceful forest paths throughout this scenic sanctuary.
The park accommodates various camping preferences, including tent and RV camping, as well as group sites. Some sites are ADA-accessible.
Historical SignificanceWhile the park's documented history awaits further exploration, the land itself whispers stories of Pennsylvania's natural heritage, inviting visitors to create their own memories along its shores and trails.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Pennsylvania's seasons at Frances Slocum, where each time of year paints the landscape in new colors. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days with gentle humidity and predominantly clear skies – perfect for lakeside adventures and evening campfires. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful wonderland, with occasional snowfall creating pristine scenes across the frozen lake. Spring awakens the wilderness with blooming wildflowers and migrating birds, all under increasingly sunny skies that promise outdoor adventures ahead.
ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas throughout the property, offering both lakeside tranquility and wooded hillsides to explore.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crown jewel of Frances Slocum is its remarkable horseshoe-shaped lake, wrapping around peninsulas and creating intimate coves perfect for wildlife watching. Dense forests of oak, maple, and pine shelter an intricate network of trails, where sunlight filters through the canopy to illuminate ferns and wildflowers below. The park teems with life – great blue herons stalk the shallows, songbirds fill the air with melodies, and deer emerge at dusk to drink from the lake's edge. Anglers delight in the diverse fish population, while hikers discover scenic overlooks and hidden glens that showcase nature's artistry in every season.
Geological RegionRising from the rolling hills of northeastern Pennsylvania's Luzerne County, Frances Slocum State Park showcases the region's characteristic landscape of forested ridges and valleys. The centerpiece 165-acre horseshoe-shaped lake, carved into the ancient Appalachian terrain, creates a unique aquatic ecosystem surrounded by deciduous and evergreen forests. Miles of trails wind through this diverse topography, offering mountain bikers challenging climbs and hikers peaceful woodland walks, all while revealing the geological story written in stone and stream throughout this captivating corner of the Keystone State.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers ADA-accessible sites, ensuring facilities for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeMost sites are described as small to moderately sized, with tight parking for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacySites are noted to be close together, providing limited privacy. However, there are a few sites offering more seclusion.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with more privacy if available. Avoid shallow RV sites if you have a long rig. Be aware of cyanoalgae warnings if traveling with pets.
Best CampsitesSite 9 is noted for its back slope but is level from left to right. Other sites vary in shade and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified in the source materials.
Check-out
Not specified in the source materials.
Stay Limit
Occupants may stay for a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of one family unit or five unrelated persons per campsite.
Groups
The group tenting area is described as large but situated on a hillside, which limits flat spots for tent setup. The bathhouse nearby has flush toilets and showers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNot specified in the source materials.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping season aligns with the summer months, but exact dates are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsNot specified in the source materials.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified in the source materials.
Cancellation PolicyRules for canceling reservations are not specified in the source materials.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The park provides a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming. Guests can also enjoy programs like interpretive and environmental education. Winter activities such as snowmobiling and ice fishing are available during colder months.
Hiking
There are numerous hiking trails around the campground and lake. Trails are noted to have varied difficulty, with some categorized as moderate. 'The campground trail is moderate with a decent step climb.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the lake, but user reviews indicate limited success. One camper notes, 'Fishing is not great due to an overabundance of catfish.' Common catches include catfish and sunnies.Swimming
The park features a swimming pool. However, one review notes the pool is only open on weekends and was closed during their stay, which affected their experience.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available, offering varied terrain for different skill levels.Boating
The campground has a boat launch and mooring facilities. Boat rentals are also available. Activities such as kayaking are popular on the lake.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to various bird species and wildlife, making it suitable for nature enthusiasts.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs such as interpretive sessions and environmental education are available.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating, and ice fishing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities such as kayaking and canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must be contained in fire rings provided.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 9 PM to 8 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of cyanoalgae in the lake makes it toxic for animals. Some RV sites are shallow, which can pose challenges.
Active alertsNot specified in the source materials.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, located approximately 10 miles away at 575 North River Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18764. Phone: 570-829-8111.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot specified in the source materials.
Trash and recyclingRecycling stations are available within the facility. Trash disposal specifics are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe 165-acre horseshoe-shaped lake is central to the park, offering opportunities for boating and fishing.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention issues with privacy due to closely spaced sites, rude behavior from other campers, and challenges such as dirty bathrooms and outdated electricity infrastructure.
HostHosts are reported to be friendly and helpful based on user reviews.
Campground Map
565 MT OLIVET ROAD, WYOMING, Pennsylvania, 18644, United States
Driving directionsFrom Exit 170B of I-81, take PA 309 north 7.2 miles. Turn right (east) onto Carverton Road and drive for 4.2 miles. Turn left (north) on West 8th Street and drive 1.3 miles. Turn left (west) onto Mt. Olivet Road and drive one mile to the park entrance on the left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from major highways, including I-81. The directions specify turn-by-turn navigation to the park entrance, ensuring a straightforward drive.Nearby places
Dallas (5 miles), Wilkes-Barre (10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: Gasoline, firewood, motel, restaurants, and camp stores.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Frances Slocum State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the park's scenic beauty and variety of activities, but complaints about crowded sites, maintenance issues, and lack of privacy are common. The group tenting area has mixed reviews regarding its terrain.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews commend the park's cleanliness, peaceful environment, and variety of activities. 'Camp hosts are amazing - friendly and very helpful.'
Common Concerns
Users frequently mention cramped sites, lack of privacy, and maintenance issues in restrooms. Specific complaints include: 'Bathrooms are extremely dirty,' and 'Sites are very close together.'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend filling water tanks before unhooking and choosing secluded sites for privacy. One user shared, 'Fill your water tank before unhooking at the dump station.'
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews note the campground's popularity and occasional overcrowding, while winter reviews are sparse but mention snow-related activities.
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campsites are comfortable. Will definitely be back.' 2. 'Showers worked well with plenty of hot water.' 3. 'The lake is not dog-friendly due to toxic algae bloom.' 4. 'Sites are less than 10...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9: Noted for its uneven terrain, requiring adjustments for leveling. 'Site 9 drops a lot at the back.'
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews from disabled users are provided, but the park includes ADA sites.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed only in designated areas. One review mentions the lake being toxic to dogs due to a cyanoalgae bloom.
Last updated August 10, 2025