Two state park campgrounds in Pennsylvania to receive $8 million upgrade

Lackawanna, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Department of Communications and Natural Resources is investing $8 million to enhance the visitor experience at Lackawanna and Ricketts Glen state parks by replacing the campground shower house and restroom facilities with modern, accessible and family-friendly amenities.

Construction will require full campground closure beginning Sept. 8, 2026, through early 2028. DCNR is replacing existing facilities, which were built in the early 1970s to meet today’s visitor expectations for comfort, accessibility, and convenience.

“Campers at Lackawanna and Ricketts Glen have long enjoyed these parks’ natural beauty, and we’re committed to ensuring their facilities meet the same high standards,” said John Hallas, DCNR state parks director.

“These new amenities will offer cleaner, safer, and more accessible spaces for all visitors. We appreciate the patience of our loyal campers as we make these improvements.”

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Each park will receive a $4 million upgrade consisting of:

• Demolition of all existing shower house and restroom facilities

• Construction of new shower houses and comfort stations

• New family-assist restrooms and ADA accessible restrooms at every facility

• ADA parking areas

• New paving and accessible paths from campsites to the restrooms

During construction, the following campground areas will be closed: At Lackawanna State Park: Carpenter Town, Fox Run, and Maple Lane loops. At Ricketts Glen State Park: Big Loop and Small Loop.

Prospective visitors will be unable to book campsites at Lackawanna and Ricketts Glen during the construction.

Campers looking for alternate overnight locations should consider nearby Frances Slocum State Park, Tobyhanna State Park, Promised Land State Park, or Worlds End State Park.

While campgrounds are closed, day-use areas at both parks will remain open, allowing visitors to continue hiking, fishing and enjoying the outdoors throughout the project period.