Camping near Atglen, Pennsylvania includes several pet-friendly sites within 30 minutes of town. This rural area sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level, featuring rolling farmland and wooded terrain. Winter camping options remain limited with most facilities closed from November through March, while summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak season.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: French Creek State Park offers multiple trail options ranging from easy walks to more challenging paths. "There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," reports Katie M. who enjoyed the park's varied terrain.
Fishing opportunities: Chamber's Lake at Hibernia County Park welcomes anglers with quiet waters. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna, who found the fishing accessible for families.
Wildlife observation: Many campsites offer wildlife watching opportunities. "Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy," shares Edison L. about Country Acres Campground, where nearby Amish farms provide unique cultural observations.
Visit historic sites: Nearby attractions include Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, which preserves an iron-making community from the 18th and 19th centuries. "Close by there is Hopewell National Furnace and St. Peter's Village with shops and restaurants and hiking trails as well," reports Ray P.
What campers like
Peaceful countryside views: Lancaster-New Holland KOA features elevated sites overlooking rural Pennsylvania. "Great views. Nice little playground for the kids. We camped here couple weeks ago its close to kitchen kettle village and the outlets," says Arnold M. about the expansive valley views.
Clean, modern facilities: Campground cleanliness rates highly among reviewers. "The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," writes Stephanie S. about Country Acres Family Campground, highlighting their attention to maintenance.
Woodland privacy: Wooded sites provide natural separation at several campgrounds. "It's quiet and our neighbors were respectful of the quiet hours and our space," notes Ellen C. about French Creek State Park, where many sites include adequate tree buffers.
Cultural experiences: Proximity to Amish communities adds educational value. "Very convenient for local sites, food, and shopping. Super clean, a large pool, and all well maintained," comments Gennifer K. about Country Acres Campground, which offers access to authentic local experiences.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Not all sites accommodate larger setups. "Many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent," advises Ellen C. about French Creek State Park, suggesting careful site selection when booking.
Water access varies: Some campgrounds have limited water availability. "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," warns Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Agricultural odors: Farmland proximity can affect some campgrounds. "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot," reports Nancy W. about Old Mill Stream Campground, noting that wind direction impacts the camping experience.
Weekend booking requirements: Some parks have specific reservation rules. "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Hibernia annually hosts the 'Old Fiddlers Picnic' the second weekend in August. This is the only weekend that you are REQUIRED to call in to reserve," explains Jennifer S.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple swimming options exist throughout the area. "Miniature gold course could use some upkeep as there was trash strewn throughout the course. There was a pond for swimming," shares Jen R. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground.
Playgrounds and activities: Kid-friendly amenities vary by location. "Very family friendly park. Cabins, RV, Tent - full amenities. Lots of things to do. A little pricy, but worth it especially with kids," notes Joel A. about Jellystone Park™ Quarryville, highlighting its child-focused design.
Budget considerations: Price points range significantly. "Super great price at $15/night as well," says Anna about Hibernia County Park, contrasting with resorts charging $45-60+ nightly.
Weather preparedness: Seasonal variations affect camping comfort. "We had a nice site that backed up to a small creek. Very scenic and laid back campground. We went during Corona so no amenities were open," explains Stacy D. about Mill Bridge Village.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Terrain varies considerably between campgrounds. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," shares Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Dump station access: Not all parks offer full services. "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," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Navigation challenges: Some parks present maneuvering difficulties. "The roads were very tight and you really had to watch how you drove through because of the trees," cautions Mary C. about Lake-In-Wood Campground, highlighting access challenges for larger rigs.
Electric options: Power capabilities differ between sites. "We chose site 302 which was at the far end of the campground away from the amusement park. Our campsite was perfectly level and had a large gravel patio area and a large shade tree behind us. The site was plenty long for our 45' RV and tow car," notes Nancy W., describing Old Mill Stream Campground's full hookup capabilities.
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