French Creek State Park Campground offers year-round camping in southeast Pennsylvania, with 200 individual sites across four loops—some with full hookups for RVs, some with electric only, and mostly primitive sites. The 7,526-acre park sits 15 miles southeast of Reading with an elevation range of 300-520 feet. Sites feature paved level areas making setup easier, and most campsites have shaded locations with privacy between neighbors created by mature trees and natural vegetation.
What to do
Explore historic attractions: Visit Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, adjacent to French Creek State Park Campground. "Stayed here 2 nights without a reservation. We were in the D loop which is rustic with no hookups. Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites," notes Cheryl K. The historic iron furnace provides insight into early American industry.
Fish in multiple lakes: Try your luck at Chambers Lake in Hibernia County Park. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill," shares Anna. The park features a children's pond specifically stocked for young anglers under 12 years old.
Take scenic nature walks: Explore the extensive trail systems at multiple parks near Montchanin. "The walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," reports Chelsea from Hibernia County Park. Many trails offer varied terrain suitable for different fitness levels, with distances ranging from short 1-mile loops to longer 7-mile routes.
What campers like
Proximity to Amish country: The Lancaster-New Holland KOA provides unobstructed views of authentic Amish farmland. "Great spot to write. Super quiet," mentions Scott M. Many visitors appreciate watching Amish farmers working their fields with horse-drawn equipment, a unique cultural experience just a short drive from Montchanin.
Spacious, private campsites: Campers frequently mention the generous spacing between sites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," explains Jen R. about French Creek State Park. Sites often feature natural buffers that create privacy.
Clean, updated facilities: Modern bathhouses with hot showers earn praise at most campgrounds. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," writes Mark about Lums Pond. Most campgrounds offer accessible facilities with regular cleaning schedules.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground. Weekend dates from May through October often require bookings 3-6 months in advance, especially for premium sites with hookups.
Site selection considerations: Choose wisely based on your equipment and preferences. "The only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!" shares Katie M. about French Creek. Some campgrounds have rocky terrain that can make tent setup challenging.
Limited water access: Many campgrounds don't offer full hookups at all sites. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," cautions Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park. Always check amenities when booking glamping close to Montchanin, Delaware.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's activities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more," reports Nicole S. The campground texts activity reminders so families don't miss events.
Consider campgrounds with playgrounds: Most family-oriented sites offer play structures. "The playground is super fun for kids. There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages," writes Phinon W. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. Playgrounds provide entertainment when children need breaks from hiking or swimming.
Pack for varied weather conditions: Spring and fall camping near Montchanin can experience temperature swings. "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely," shares Paula about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, highlighting the importance of planning for seasonal conditions.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications carefully: Large RVs may face challenges at some campgrounds. "Heads up, big rig owners! Tight squeeze into Site 25. 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," warns Matt S. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. Always verify turn radius and site dimensions before booking.
Plan for dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups or convenient dump stations. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," notes Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park. This can affect length of stay for those in self-contained units.
Confirm seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary significantly. "Open April through October, though some sites offer year-round availability," mentions the Philadelphia-West Chester KOA website. Call ahead to verify exact opening and closing dates for luxury glamping near Montchanin, as these can shift based on weather conditions.
