French Creek State Park Campground offers campers four distinct loops with varying amenities across 200 sites. Sites feature paved, level areas for easy setup, with camping options ranging from primitive to full hookups. Loop B contains non-pet sites with electric hookups, while Loop C accommodates pets with mixed hookup options. The campground connects to 35 miles of hiking paths, including designated equestrian trails that extend into neighboring Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. Rangers regularly patrol to enforce park rules, including restrictions on parking on grass and alcohol consumption.
What to do
Fishing at two lakes: Both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake within French Creek State Park Campground offer fishing opportunities with various warm-water species. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes Jen R., who enjoys the park's water activities.
Horseback riding trails: Explore the extensive trail network at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in nearby Maryland, which provides dedicated equestrian routes. This natural area has "two primitive youth group camping areas" according to Gen F., and offers specialized facilities for horse enthusiasts within a short drive from Atglen.
Outdoor water activities: Chamber's Lake at Hibernia County Park provides boating options with no gas-powered motors allowed. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails," reports Anna, who visited with children. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," making this a good option for families looking for water recreation.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campsites at French Creek offer natural separation. "The campground is laid out well. There are three separate loops to camp at, Loop C is the only loop that allows pets, plus an area for large group camping which can accommodate anywhere from 30 to 60 people," explains Jen R. "The campsites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade."
Modern, clean facilities: Lums Pond State Park Campground in Delaware, approximately 30 minutes from Atglen, recently upgraded its amenities. "Great bath houses, always super clean," reports Al K. The bathhouses feature individual shower rooms, which camper Mark describes as "absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple parks offer playground facilities for children. Ellen C. appreciated French Creek's recreational options: "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Loop variations at French Creek determine your camping experience. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," shares Jen R. However, Cheryl K. notes differences between loops: "We were in the D loop which is rustic with no hookups. Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites. Bathrooms were just okay."
Rules and regulations: State parks enforce specific guidelines. French Creek prohibits alcohol consumption and requires vehicles to stay on paved areas. At Blackbird State Forest, different regulations apply: "This is a good free state forest with maybe 10 (or less) designated tent-camping sites, and designated areas for deer hunting," according to D.R., who also mentions "RV camping is not encouraged. Horseriding is encouraged."
Seasonal considerations: Hibernia County Park operates on limited availability. Jennifer S. explains: "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration." When planning equestrian camping near Atglen, check operating dates as some facilities close during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer dedicated play areas. At Lums Pond State Park, Mark found excellent facilities: "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards). The only complaint I have is that the kiddie swings seem to be modeled after the seasickness machine."
Child-friendly fishing spots: Starlite Camping Resort provides family activities beyond standard camping. Elizabeth L., a long-time visitor, notes: "The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore... There are regular activities for all ages including bingo, crafts and live music."
Spacious sites for family setup: When camping with children, site space becomes crucial. At Hibernia County Park, Chelsea observed: "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites."
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Sites with services vary across parks. At French Creek, Jen R. advises: "All sites do not have a water hook up but there is water available and some sites have electric. For an electric site it was the standard State Park fee of $33.50 per night."
Navigating terrain: Some campgrounds feature challenging topography. At Starlite Camping Resort, Chris G. warns: "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills." However, Craig F. clarifies: "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Site specifications: RV campers should research specific site dimensions. Jennifer S. at Hibernia County Park cautions: "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'... 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."
