Stephen W.
Guide
GuideMill Bridge Village & Camp Resort
Great olacevto camp in Lancaster County
We camp here several times thru out the year. Always an enjoyable stay. Staff is very friendly and accommodating.
Best Campgrounds near Bernville, PA
Campgrounds near Bernville, Pennsylvania range from fully developed RV resorts to more secluded cabin accommodations. The area includes established facilities like Appalachian Camping Resort in Shartlesville and French Creek State Park Campground in Elverson, both offering a mix of tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate multiple camping styles, with many featuring both primitive tent sites and full-service RV pads with electric, water, and sewer connections.
Camping in this area operates primarily from April through October, with several campgrounds closing during winter months. Seasonal considerations affect facility availability, especially water services and shower access. "A very nice campground for the family. Super nice and friendly staff. Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers," noted one visitor about Mountain Springs Camping Resort. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months. The terrain throughout the region consists mainly of rolling hills and farmland, with some campgrounds featuring pond or creek access. Cell service is generally available at most established campgrounds, though reception may vary in more remote areas.
Campers consistently mention the family-friendly atmosphere at many Bernville area campgrounds. The mixed-use campground options frequently include amenities like swimming pools, fishing ponds, playgrounds, and organized activities. Several visitors highlighted the spacious sites and clean facilities at locations like Shady Oak Campground, which one camper described as having "a nice home away from home feel." Developed campgrounds in the region often feature a significant number of seasonal campers alongside short-term visitors. While some reviewers praise the well-maintained facilities and helpful staff, others note that certain campgrounds can feel crowded with closely spaced sites. The proximity to local attractions like Pennsylvania Dutch Country and various outdoor recreation areas makes these campgrounds popular bases for exploring the wider region.
Best Camping Sites Near Bernville, Pennsylvania (170)
1. French Creek State Park Campground
82 ReviewsGeigertown, PA23 milesWebsite+1 (610) 582-9680$24 - $122 / night
"We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"
"Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."
2. Blue Rocks Family Campground
26 ReviewsLenhartsville, PA15 milesWebsite+1 (610) 756-6366"According to hikers on the AT, this is what they call Pennsylvania, as they hike through this section of the state. And Blue Rocks Campground doesn't dissapoint."
"Blue Rocks family campground is close to I78 however it is still off the beaten path. It is very peaceful to camp here as you have different types of environments."
3. Appalachian Camping Resort
8 ReviewsShartlesville, PA6 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"It was a nice size and was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet! There were scheduled activities for kids and adults."
"We started our trip Friday afternoon, we pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to “check in.” We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office."
4. Lake-In-Wood Campground
21 ReviewsNarvon, PA18 milesWebsite+1 (717) 445-5525$40 - $60 / night
"As we drove up I loved the look and location of the campground. "
"It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"
5. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort
9 ReviewsReinholds, PA12 milesWebsite+1 (717) 336-5564"All of the sites are full electric and more than a few have very little space for a family size tent to be safely away from the fire ring. Ours had adequate distance but we got lucky tbh."
"Streams are close by, hiking trails are numerous and Hawk Falls was a high point of the park. Peaceful, crisp air and beautiful Surroundings."
6. Mountain Springs Camping Resort
6 ReviewsShartlesville, PA7 milesWebsite+1 (610) 488-6859$60 - $73 / night
"Close to other stores and camping center."
"Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers. Fun activities for all to enjoy. All the campers that were there when we there are super friendly."
7. Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak
3 ReviewsNewmanstown, PA8 milesWebsite+1 (610) 589-48008. Locust Lake State Park Campground
31 ReviewsMahanoy City, PA24 milesWebsite+1 (570) 467-2404$24 - $47 / night
"We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach. Beach area was nice."
"Had a site close to the lake. Many sites (including mine) were not level. The sites sizes were a bit small and i would book during peak season. I would definitely return again off season."
9. Dutch Cousin Campground
6 ReviewsDenver, PA14 milesWebsite+1 (717) 336-6911"Easy access and a great central location to TONS of antique shops. Very clean and very friendly. Highly recommend!"
10. Starlite Camping Resort
6 ReviewsHopeland, PA14 milesWebsite+1 (717) 733-9655"Starlight is a nice campground to relax or explore central Pennsylvania."
"The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore."
Recent Camping Photos near Bernville, PA
411 Photos of 170 Bernville Campgrounds
The Dyrt
Appalachian Camping Resort
Jen R.
Cocalico Creek Campground
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - Peaceful by Pigeon Creek
Ashley J.
Hickory Run Family Camping Resort
The Dyrt
Tentrr Signature Site - The Algonquin Gitigaan
Sharon M.
Dutch Cousin Campground
Heather G.
Sill's Family Campground
Chris G.
Starlite Camping Resort
Lorie O.
Blue Rocks Family Campground
Mike V.
Stoevers Dam Park
Jen R.
Adventure Bound Camping Resorts Oak Creek
Amanda G.
Red Run Campground
Recent Reviews near Bernville, PA
1054 Reviews of 170 Bernville Campgrounds
Nicole S.
LegendLake-In-Wood Campground
Sun Retreats Lancaster County - Easter Weekend
Like always we like to begin our camping season with a Easter Weekend Trip, my husband's family is partial to the Lancaster Area, so we headed there to Sun Retreats Lancaster. As we drove up I loved the look and location of the campground. You could see there was a indoor pool setup, arcade, playground, store, ice cream, mini-golf and a huge lake and that was everything we saw from the truck. We pulled up to a gate and a guy came out of the shed next to it to check us in.
The campground looked well maintained, the sports were on both sides of the lake and they offered many different options like woods or open, pull through or back up. We choose a really wooded site. It was tight getting in but I can't complain I don't drive the truck. It seemed like there was a fair amount of seasonal sites but they didn't overwhelm the place. I could see also a lot of cabins there were some shaped like teepees, a frontier cabin, and a caboose. They had a fair amount of open grass to play and enjoy. You can bring your own golfcart or they have on site rentals also.
They had an activity list that would help keep everyone busy, they had a mini golf course that was in great shape, an arcade which was definitely lacking in the game department, I think there was 4 pinball machines, 2 Skee ball, 3 racing games, and the play to you win machine. The playground x2 were both in great condition with a lot to keep kids playing on. I can only comment on the indoor pool which at the time was said to be under construction however still open, the water was on the colder side and the hot tube the same temp as the pool, the ceiling had been ripped off so the iron rusting beams were exposed and rust falling down. The kids still went in the pool unfortunately the air from the open window made them too cold so we didn't stay long. I am hoping it will be finished because the concept of the indoor-outdoor pool area looks so fun.
The staff was extremely helpful and super friendly. The store was fully stocked with everything you could want. The bathrooms were all kept so clean and in working order with hot water. We enjoyed the area we ventured out to see the Choo Choo barn, the green dragon flea market, and kitchen kettle village which are a must if your in the area. We also choose to hike the Welsh Preserve and Money Rock. The lake had a path you could walk completely around and you could choose to fish if that's your thing.
I would definitely return to this campground again, we had 8 sites in total and we all really thought it was a wonderful place and really enjoyed our holiday weekend there. It was very busy but the staff was present but not overbearing. People were very respectful and friendly.
Stuart K.LegendMelody Lakes Country Estates
More Community Living Than Campground Stay
Tucked just off Route 309 north of Quakertown, Melody Lakes Country Estate feels far less like a traditional campground and much more like a quiet, semi-permanent residential community, with a small pocket of opportunity for the occasional overnight RV stay if you happen to time it right.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Peaceful, tucked-away setting surrounded by wooded acreage that gives the property a calm, removed feel from nearby roads;(2) Access to a range of community-style amenities including a pool, clubhouse, playground, and small fishing ponds;(3) Proximity to Quakertown makes it relatively easy to access groceries, restaurants, and basic supplies within a short drive;(4) Nearby outdoor options like the Upper Bucks Rail Trail provide a great outlet for hiking and biking;(5) Close to local gems like Kathy’s Country Kitchen, which is well worth the stop if you’re passing through.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Extremely limited RV availability, with only a handful of spots, making it unreliable for spontaneous overnight stays;(2) Not a true campground experience, as the majority of the property is made up of semi-permanent or seasonal residences;(3) No tent camping options whatsoever, limiting flexibility for different types of campers;(4) Entrance is easy to miss with minimal signage, requiring careful navigation or prior knowledge to find;(5) Unclear availability of full hookups due to the limited number of transient sites and lack of consistent turnover.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Quakerwoods Campground
Quaint Country Camping in Classic Bucks County
Tucked into the rolling farmland and lush hillsides of Bucks County just off Exit 44 of the PA Turnpike and Exits 60/60A from I-78, Quakerwoods Campground delivers a postcard-perfect countryside setting with wide-open skies, neighboring hay fields, rustic barns and charming small towns that feel pulled straight from a New England travel guide. With roughly 170 RV sites, a small collection of tent sites and several rental campers, the campground strikes a balance between peaceful rural escape and full-featured family campground energy.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Gorgeous pastoral setting with surrounding farmland, rolling hills and a distinctly peaceful countryside atmosphere;(2) Excellent full-hookup RV infrastructure with mostly back-in sites offering 30/50 amp electric, water and sewer, along with flat pads, picnic tables and in-ground fire rings;(3) Exceptionally strong amenity package including adult and kids swimming pools, mini golf, baseball field, RC track, shuffleboard, fishing pond, game room, playgrounds, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, cornhole, themed weekends, bingo and Saturday wagon rides;(4) Clean and plentiful facilities including four well-kept restroom and shower buildings, laundry, camp store, dump stations, water stations, propane refills and ice sales; and(5) Outstanding access to regional attractions including Nockamixon State Park for kayaking and canoeing, plus great nearby dining at Brick Tavern Inn, McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn and Sage Alley Brewery.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Interior sections of the campground offer less tree cover and privacy compared to the wooded perimeter sites;(2) Tent camping is limited in number and clustered separately, which may feel slightly isolated to some campers;(3) Restaurant options are not immediately adjacent, requiring a short drive for dining;(4) Weekend popularity and themed events can increase noise and traffic levels; and(5) RV rates trend toward the higher end during peak season.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country
Amish Country Charm with a Resort Twist
Tucked into the rolling, wooded hills of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country RV Resort offers a unique blend of peaceful countryside and activity-packed camping, all just a stone’s throw from the PA Turnpike.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Expansive campground with 250+ sites offering full hookups, giving plenty of options for both short stays and longer visits;(2) Resort-style amenities including pool, mini golf, clubhouse, playgrounds, and organized activities that keep families engaged throughout the day;(3) Beautiful wooded setting with dense tree coverage that creates a surprisingly secluded feel despite proximity to major highways;(4) Ideal location for exploring Pennsylvania Dutch Country, with scenic farmland, covered bridges, and charming nearby towns just minutes away; and(5) Strong sense of community with events like bingo, crafts, and family activities that give it that classic ‘summer camp” vibe.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Sloped terrain throughout much of the campground can make leveling a bit tricky depending on your site;(2) Close proximity to the PA Turnpike may be a concern for some, even though tree coverage helps reduce both noise and visibility;(3) Wi-Fi is not complimentary and can be an added cost, which feels a bit dated for a“resort” experience;(4) Membership requirement through Thousand Trails can be a barrier for first-time or casual campers; and(5) Limited tent site availability compared to the large number of RV sites, making it less flexible for non-RV travelers
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park
Amenity-Packed Campground in PA Dutch Country
Set just off I-76 in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, Pinch Pond Family Campground& RV Park is a large, all-in-one, family-focused campground with a layout that feels more like a small neighborhood than a traditional woods-only campsite. While its proximity to the highway makes access easy, the property itself is gated, organized into distinct camping zones and packed with amenities that clearly cater to longer stays and families looking for built-in entertainment.
HIGHLIGHTS:(1) Full-service resort-style amenities including pool, playground, arcade, laundry, propane refills, dump stations, sports field, picnic tables and in-ground fire rings throughout the property;(2) Wide variety of lodging options including RV sites with 30/50 amp hookups, water, sewer and cable, primitive tent sites, and multiple on-site cottages for non-campers;(3) Gated entrance and very welcoming, helpful staff at check-in with a well-stocked camp store offering snacks, ice cream, sundries and souvenirs;(4) Strong family appeal with fishing pond, barn, open play areas and space for kids to roam safely; and(5) Excellent location for regional attractions including Hershey Park, Chocolate World, Amish countryside tours and the nearby wolf sanctuary with guided educational tours.
LOWLIGHTS:(1) Immediate proximity to I-76 means persistent highway noise day and night with no real sound buffer;(2) Access is oddly indirect despite being next to the turnpike, requiring a several-mile loop through countryside roads to reach the entrance;(3) Overall layout is wide open with limited natural privacy between many RV sites;(4) Nearby shooting range produces frequent target practice noise, especially noticeable during early morning hours; and(5) Pricing for primitive tent sites feels disproportionately high compared to full-hookup RV rates.
Happy Camping!
- RRandy L.
ScoutFrench Creek State Park Campground
French Creek State Park
This is our 3rd time at this park, it is one of our favorites. Well maintained, very quiet. We stay in Loop A (full hookup) pet friendly. Sites are spacious, generally large but they are all back-in sites.
- EEileen D.Guide
Echo Valley Campground
Nice park
Owners are very friendly and helpful. Sites are large and roomy.
Jenni D.ScoutHidden Acres Camping Grounds
Hidden gem
Small family owed for 50 plus years. They care about their guests and treat everyone like they are part of the family. The only thing about this campground is that it doesn't allow tents. Only RVs and pull behind.
Guide to Bernville
Camping opportunities near Bernville, Pennsylvania span approximately 2,500 acres of mixed hardwood forests and farmland terrain. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campsites in this area operate in the Appalachian Mountain foothills, creating distinct microclimates where evening temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees below daytime highs.
What to do
**Hiking trails: French Creek State Park offers multiple difficulty levels of hiking paths. "There are lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," reports Katie M. The park maintains 35+ miles of marked trails ranging from easy half-mile loops to challenging 6-mile routes.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide stocked fishing ponds or lake access. At Locust Lake State Park Campground, "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," one camper notes. The park contains multiple species including northern pike, bass, and panfish with no license required for children under 16.
Boulder exploration: Blue Rocks Family Campground features a unique natural formation. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time," shares Terri S. The glacier rock field provides safe climbing opportunities for all ages with some formations reaching 15-20 feet high.
Outdoor swimming: Most larger campgrounds maintain seasonal pool facilities. At Mountain Springs Camping Resort, "Super nice and friendly staff. Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers," says Ray B. Pool access typically costs $3-5 per person with most facilities open 10am-8pm during peak season.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural site separation. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes Jen R. Most wooded sites feature 30-50 feet between camping areas with natural brush or tree screening.
Accessible water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond swimming. "We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely! There is also a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon," shares Katie M. about French Creek State Park.
Unique accommodations: Beyond traditional tent and RV sites, specialty lodging options exist. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," explains one visitor to Lake-In-Wood Campground. Specialty accommodations typically cost $85-150 per night with most requiring 2-night minimum stays.
On-site conveniences: Many campgrounds maintain well-stocked camp stores. At Starlite Camping Resort, "The camp store is well stocked and also serves hand-dipped ice cream," reports Craig F. Most stores operate 8am-7pm during peak season with emergency supplies available after hours.
What you should know
Site variability: Terrain and site quality varies significantly within the same campground. "I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop," notes Ranger Jen about French Creek's pet-friendly Loop C. Request detailed site maps when booking as terrain can change drastically between adjacent loops.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences variable weather patterns. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" shares Galit P. about winter camping at French Creek. Pack layers as temperature swings of 30°F within 24 hours aren't uncommon.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. At Appalachian Camping Resort, "We started our trip Friday afternoon, we pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to 'check in.' We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office," explains one visitor. Reserve sites 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends and 1-2 months for spring/fall dates.
Seasonal operation: Many facilities close or reduce services in winter. "I've been here a couple different times and stayed in different sites each time and always had a great time!" reports Christopher J. about French Creek State Park, which maintains year-round camping while many private campgrounds close October-April.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Look for campsites near play areas for convenience. At Hickory Run Family Camping Resort, "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. All kids and adults agreed it was the most fun!" details one visitor. Most play areas close at dusk with quiet hours starting at 9pm.
Junior ranger programs: Several state parks offer educational opportunities. "We loved camping here. My kids went fishing and every cast they caught a fish, some were small... but hey the kids had fun," shares Michelle E. about Hickory Run. Programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day at no additional cost.
Site selection for families: Certain camping areas cater better to children. "We had sites #32 & #34 in Loop B and the kids had a lot of room to run and play between the two sites," notes one French Creek visitor. Corner sites or those at loop ends typically provide 25-50% more play space than interior sites.
Activity scheduling: Most campgrounds organize weekend events. "There was bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids, a dj Saturday night and a live band Sunday night," describes Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort. Activity schedules are typically posted weekly with most requiring pre-registration.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room," advises one French Creek camper. Most state parks accommodate RVs up to 40 feet while private campgrounds often handle 45+ foot rigs.
Hookup variations: Water and electric access varies significantly. At Shady Oak Campground, "Full hookups and some grassy sites without sewer with more of a camping park feel. I preferred and stayed at the later. Full hookup sites were mostly gravel," explains Dominick L. Electric service ranges from 20-50 amp with many state parks offering electric-only sites.
Leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the region requires preparation. "Our site was a drive-through but slanted. There wasn't much room on our site to do anything else. The fire ring was about all the room allowed," shares Mary C. about Lake-In-Wood Campground. Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites have slopes of 3-6 inches across standard pad lengths.
Seasonal site options: Many campgrounds offer long-term arrangements. "We have been camping at Starlite with Dave and family for 15+ years. The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore," notes Elizabeth L. Seasonal rates typically run $2,000-3,500 for the full April-October camping season depending on amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Bernville, PA?
What camping is available near Bernville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Bernville, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 170 campgrounds and RV parks near Bernville, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Bernville, PA?
Which is the most popular campground near Bernville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bernville, PA is French Creek State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 82 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bernville, PA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bernville, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Bernville, PA.
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