Lums Pond State Park Campground provides year-round camping options just 15 miles southeast of Reading. The park sits at about 400 feet above sea level with typically mild mid-Atlantic temperatures. Winter temperatures average between 25-40°F, while summer highs range from 75-90°F with moderate humidity. The campground's terrain is mostly level with scattered hardwood forest coverage.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: 5-7 miles of trails surround the area near French Creek State Park Campground, offering various difficulty levels. "We ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," notes one visitor who enjoyed the well-marked trails.
Fishing at multiple locations: Several parks offer fishing in stocked ponds and rivers. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to a visitor to French Creek State Park, where ice fishing is also permitted when conditions allow.
Wildlife viewing and photography: The wetlands and forests create habitats for diverse wildlife. At Susquehanna State Park Campground, visitors note the park "primarily draws Eagle watchers and photographers." One camper reported: "We scared a bunch of deer (ok they scared me!!) and checked out the giant old growth trees."
Historical sites exploration: The region offers several historical attractions within short driving distance. "Beyond the immediate park boundaries, the location allows convenient access to attractions in Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania," notes a visitor who used their camping site as a base for regional exploration.
What campers like
Clean, updated facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses and amenities. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, a visitor noted: "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms." Another mentioned: "This place is a gem, even among nice state parks."
Spacious sites with good separation: Campers consistently mention the ample room between sites. "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," reported one visitor to Lums Pond. Another camper noted: "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun."
Access to water recreation: Boating and paddling opportunities are highly rated by visitors. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, "there is a pool that is open Memorial Day-Labor Day. They also have a catch and release pond." One visitor reported: "I couldn't wait to turn down Timberlane Road and see that little KOA sign glowing in the darkness."
Easy access from major highways: The convenient location makes these camping areas popular for weekend getaways. "Easy access from I-95," mentioned one visitor about Lums Pond State Park, which sits just off major travel routes, making it accessible for quick trips or longer stays.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many sites book up quickly, especially during peak season. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns a camper about Woodlands Camping Resort. Another visitor mentioned: "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond."
Seasonal considerations: Water facilities and some amenities close during winter months. "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change," notes a visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. Water sources may also be limited during colder months.
Site selection tips: Not all sites have the same amenities or terrain. At French Creek State Park, one camper advised: "If you have a large family sized tent... many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent so keep this in mind."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. One camper at Parvin State Park noted: "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing... the toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, choose sites near play areas. At Parvin State Park Campground, a visitor noted: "Site is great for people with families as there was a playground within 50 feet so it is a bit louder and busier." Consider the trade-off between convenience and quietness.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with structured recreation for different ages. The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers "pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool." Another visitor mentioned: "They have recreational activities for kids and families from ice-cream parties to bingo to hayrides to movies on a giant screen in the rally field."
Safety considerations: Pay attention to terrain and wildlife concerns. "Bring bug spray, usually see ticks," warns a camper about Parvin Park. Another family noted: "The sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes."
Tent pad availability: For tent campers with children, finding a level site is important. "I would say about half - maybe more - don't have pads," notes a visitor to Susquehanna State Park. "We will absolutely be coming back... but we will bring our bikes and book a site with a tent pad!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations and accessibility: RV campers should check utility placement before booking. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, one RVer cautioned: "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle... I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road."
Site leveling requirements: Many sites require additional leveling equipment. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," noted a visitor to Lums Pond. Another camper shared: "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze."
Length restrictions: Larger RVs may not fit in all available sites. A Lums Pond visitor advised: "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room." Call ahead if you have a rig over 35 feet.
Winter camping considerations: For cold weather RV camping, select sites with appropriate hookups. "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely," shared a visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, where year-round camping is available.
