Camping options near Avondale, Pennsylvania range from rustic tent sites to full hookup RV accommodations across Chester and Lancaster counties. The area sits at approximately 300-400 feet elevation with humid summer temperatures often reaching the upper 80s. Fall camping season extends from September through early November with cooler temperatures making it ideal for campfires and hiking without summer crowds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Chamber's Lake at Hibernia County Park offers fishing spots for all skill levels. "There is a children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," notes John Z., making it perfect for introducing kids to fishing.
Canoeing the Brandywine: The river provides gentle paddling perfect for beginners. "We stayed in one of the river sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," explains Jim N., who visits frequently.
Themed activities: Seasonal events keep children entertained throughout camping season. "Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park hosts breakfast with Yogi! The pool was really nice - that is where we were most of the time," shares Terri S., highlighting the character interactions that kids enjoy.
Amish farm tours: Several campgrounds offer views of traditional farming practices. "Daily views of fields, farmers plowing with horses or the buggys going by was great," reports April L. who stayed at Lancaster-New Holland KOA, providing cultural experiences unique to the region.
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground receives praise for its large, well-maintained sites. Adam and Suzanne B. explain, "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun. The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently rate bathroom cleanliness as exceptional. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," shares Mark about his stay at Lums Pond.
Privacy between sites: Natural buffers between campsites create personal space. "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Glamping accommodations: Luxury tent and yurt options provide upscale camping experiences in Avondale. "We stayed in one of the glamping tents. The tents were more glamorous than we had tried before, but definitely had a good combination of woodsy and comfort," explains Jaquiline D. about her experience at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change," advises Travyl Couple, highlighting the importance of checking schedules.
Site limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on RV size or tent placement. Jennifer S. notes about Hibernia County Park: "This campground has 2 small loops. I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up in Lake loop. As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will."
Booking challenges: Popular parks require advance planning. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground, reflecting the competitive reservation process during peak seasons.
Environmental factors: Local agricultural activities may affect camping experience. "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 affects comfort levels.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Old Mill Stream Campground offers stream access perfect for warm weather. "Nice campground with a creek that runs along the backside of the campground! Even though the amusement park wasn't open yet, kids still had a good time!" shares Ray L.
Activity planning: Schedule around popular weekend events for maximum enjoyment. "Hibernia annually hosts the (super fun!) 'Old Fiddlers Picnic' (Folk/Americana/Bluegrass etc. music & arts, beginner to pro!) the second weekend in August," recommends Jennifer S.
Family-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specialized facilities for different age groups. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," notes Ashley S. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville.
Proximity to attractions: Some campgrounds offer direct access to family destinations. "Literally off the same parking lot as Dutch Wonderland. It's really small but very pleasant... Not too noisy being next to a theme park," explains Joshua W. about Old Mill Stream Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Choose appropriate sites based on your RV size. "The site 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," shares Nancy W. about her experience at Old Mill Stream Campground.
Hookup considerations: Not all campgrounds offer full services. Jennifer S. advises about Hibernia Park: "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."
Navigation challenges: Some parks have tight roads requiring careful driving. "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," explains Matt S. about his experience at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, cautioning: "Don't stay in this site in a big motorhome."
Dump station access: Plan for waste disposal needs. "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.
