Places to Camp near Philadelphia, PA
Camping near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Camping near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania offers a diverse range of experiences, from well-maintained campgrounds with plenty of amenities to more rustic, nature-focused sites. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot with lots of activities or a peaceful retreat in the woods, you'll find something that suits your needs. The campgrounds in this area are known for their cleanliness, friendly staff, and variety of accommodations, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced campers.
Philadelphia's proximity to both urban and natural attractions means you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Spend your days exploring the city's rich history and vibrant culture, then retreat to the tranquility of your campsite in the evening. With options ranging from tent camping to RV sites and even glamping, there's something for everyone. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect when camping near Philadelphia.
What to do
When camping near Philadelphia, there's no shortage of activities to keep you busy. Many campgrounds offer a variety of on-site amenities and activities, from swimming pools and playgrounds to fishing ponds and hiking trails. For example, the Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA features a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, and a playground, making it a great choice for families.
If you're looking to explore the great outdoors, Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park offers beautiful trails and scenic views. One camper, Meg F., shared, "I had the best time here hiking up and down the mini mountains. The water was clear and beautiful and I absolutely loved it." You can also enjoy fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching in the park.
For those who prefer a mix of urban and outdoor activities, the proximity to Philadelphia means you can easily spend a day in the city visiting historical sites, museums, and restaurants before returning to your campsite for a relaxing evening by the fire.
What campers like
Campers appreciate the cleanliness and well-maintained facilities at many of the campgrounds near Philadelphia. The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA is particularly praised for its cleanliness and friendly staff. Nicole S. noted, "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there... The place is so clean including the bathrooms."
Another popular feature is the variety of activities available for both kids and adults. American P. mentioned, "Really nice camp site... nice amenities for kids, adults and dogs... very dog friendly." The availability of activities and amenities makes these campgrounds a great choice for families and groups.
Campers also appreciate the helpful and friendly staff. Chanel B. shared her experience at the Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, saying, "The host sent us a text when they found [my fiancé's wallet]... We had firewood delivered to our site which was a nice luxury to have and our neighbors were super friendly."
What you should know
While there are many positives to camping near Philadelphia, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some campers have noted that the Wi-Fi at certain campgrounds can be unreliable. American P. advised, "Wi-Fi is lousy so make sure you have a good outdoor antenna."
Another consideration is the proximity of campsites to one another. Joel R. pointed out, "The only complaint is that, like all KOAs, the sites are on top of each other. The neighbor’s sewer connection is right next to our picnic table!" This is something to keep in mind if you prefer more privacy.
Additionally, some campgrounds may have limited amenities. For example, Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park does not offer electric hookups, showers, or a market. However, it does provide a beautiful natural setting and is perfect for those looking for a more rustic camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Camping with families can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you choose a campground with plenty of activities and amenities. The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA is a great option for families, offering a pool, playground, and various activities throughout the day. Nicole S. shared, "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget."
It's also important to choose a campground with clean and well-maintained facilities. YM C. noted, "The bathrooms were the cleanest I’ve ever seen on any campgrounds ever. Sparkling." Clean facilities can make a big difference, especially when camping with young children.
Finally, consider the availability of family-friendly amenities such as picnic tables, firewood delivery, and friendly staff. Chanel B. appreciated the firewood delivery and helpful staff at the Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, saying, "We had firewood delivered to our site which was a nice luxury to have and our neighbors were super friendly."
Tips from RVers
RVers will find several campgrounds near Philadelphia that cater to their needs. The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA is known for being big rig friendly and offers 30/50 amp hookups, water, and sewer connections. Joel R. shared, "The sites are large enough for large RVs, they have 30/50 amp hookups and water & sewer."
However, it's important to be aware of the proximity of campsites to one another. Joel R. also mentioned, "The only complaint is that, like all KOAs, the sites are on top of each other." This is something to consider if you prefer more space and privacy.
Another tip for RVers is to be prepared for unreliable Wi-Fi. American P. advised, "Wi-Fi is lousy so make sure you have a good outdoor antenna." Having a backup plan for internet access can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.
Camping near Philadelphia offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly campgrounds with plenty of activities to more rustic, nature-focused sites. By choosing the right campground and being prepared for the unique aspects of camping in this area, you can enjoy a memorable and enjoyable outdoor adventure.
