Near Aston, Pennsylvania, campers can find glamping opportunities set in the hardwood forest landscapes of eastern Pennsylvania. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with mild springs and humid summers making spring and early fall the most comfortable glamping seasons. Weather conditions typically favor camping from April through October, when average daytime temperatures range between 65-85°F.
What to do
Hiking trail access: At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, visitors can access several nearby trails surrounding the campground. "Nearby are great places to go hiking as well as a canoe and rafting outfit. We choose to do both on this trip and weren't disappointed with either," reports one camper who visited with family.
Canoe and fishing: The Brandywine River provides water recreation options at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," explains a regular visitor. Most fishing spots offer catch-and-release opportunities for bass and other freshwater species.
Indoor activities for rainy days: When weather doesn't cooperate, Lake-In-Wood Campground offers indoor entertainment options. "Huge pond for fishing, miniature golf, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. Goats to pet and watch," describes a family who visited. The campground also features a small arcade that provides entertainment during inclement weather.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "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." The park's layout allows for privacy even during busy weekends.
Multiple water features: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers various water-based activities that guests enjoy. "Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," writes a recent visitor. The park maintains electric-motors-only rules on the pond, creating a peaceful environment for paddlers.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. A guest at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA mentioned, "The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds." Similarly, at Lums Pond, a visitor remarked, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most glamping sites near Aston operate on limited schedules. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, one visitor noted, "This does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change." Always verify operating dates directly with campgrounds before planning a trip.
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping locations fill quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Lums Pond observed, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond. I don't know if it's the host campers or the management, but they're definitely doing something right."
Water issues: Water quality varies between campgrounds. At Parvin State Park Campground, a camper reported, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Hibernia County Park offers dedicated play areas for children. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," writes a visitor who camped there with family. The park maintains age-appropriate areas for different age groups.
Swimming areas: French Creek State Park provides swimming options for families. "There is a pool and another playground near the park office. Not to mention the many trails for walking, hiking or biking as well," explains a regular visitor. The pool typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with lifeguards on duty.
Kid-friendly fishing: Several parks offer dedicated children's fishing ponds. At Hibernia County Park, a visitor shared, "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under." These ponds are typically stocked regularly for higher catch rates.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site dimensions before booking. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, one camper advised, "It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily." However, not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs equally well.
Hookup locations: Water and electric hookup placement varies between campgrounds. At Old Cedar Campground, a visitor noted, "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."
Seasonal maintenance: Winter weather affects site conditions. A Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA visitor explained, "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely." Always call ahead for special accommodation needs.
