Tent campsites near Bernville, Pennsylvania offer primitive to developed camping options within deciduous forest areas at elevations between 400-600 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights around 55-65°F. Access roads to many sites remain unpaved, requiring vehicles with adequate clearance during spring's muddy conditions.
What to do
Paddle boarding on Mauch Chunk Lake: The clear water at Mauch Chunk Lake Park provides excellent conditions for water activities. "You can get sites right on the water that are nice size. If you go during the week, it's quite calm. I like that I can launch my paddle board from my sight and the water is so clean and clear," notes Lisa S.
Creek hiking: Evansburg State Park offers unique creek exploration opportunities within a 30-mile drive from Bernville. "Great place to creek hike, nice for horses, we did get a lot of ticks, but not deer ticks, thankfully," shares Meg F. The creek maintains water levels suitable for wading through summer months.
Disc golf: Green Lane Park features an 18-hole disc golf course that remains accessible year-round. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," reports Benjamin C. The course winds through wooded areas with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for beginners.
What campers like
Creekside tent sites: Primitive camping along Mill Creek provides natural cooling effects during summer months. "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night," says Meagan J. from Mill Creek Camping Area.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds within 30 miles of Bernville maintain stocked fishing ponds for younger anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes Anna from Hibernia County Park. Fishing licenses cost $22.97 for Pennsylvania residents.
Trail access: Many tent sites connect directly to hiking networks. "I've stayed here a couple times with groups. I believe it is a great spot to go with people who haven't camped much before. It has flat tent spaces, generally clean bathrooms, and access to tons of things to do on the campground and nearby," explains Mackenzie B. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Many campgrounds near Bernville have restricted water sources. "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. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'," cautions Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Site privacy varies significantly: Green Lane Park offers large sites but minimal separation between campers. "The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them. It's a shame because it's a beautiful park in a beautiful area but even with it being so close to home, I'd never stay there because I like some privacy," warns Jen.
Trail traffic through campsites: Hikers sometimes cross through designated camping areas. "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites. They should post this info for the people on the trails," reports Sakina P. about Mill Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Rolling Hills Retreats provides family-friendly camping within 15 miles of Bernville. "5 of us went here for my best friends birthday weekend. We are so thankful for the host as he was very accommodating but also gave us privacy," shares Jillian P.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include playground facilities within walking distance of tent sites. "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms," explains Anna about Hibernia County Park's family amenities.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds become crowded and noisy during peak times. "We visited in the summer on a weekend when it was full. The campsites are too close to each other and we were surrounded by very loud campers. It was not just 1 group; there were multiple parties making a lot of noise until after midnight," cautions Danielle F. about Mauch Chunk Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Evansburg State Park Campground requires careful positioning for RVs. "This hidden gem of a campground is beautiful. There is plenty of hiking trails. Only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. Some are further than others," explains Chuck C. Most sites require blocks or levelers to achieve stability.
Water fill options: With limited on-site water connections, plan accordingly. "The bathhouse OK, but just basic. Tent spots are just lined up against one another facing a service road," notes Ra F. about Green Lane Park's facilities. Most campgrounds near Bernville provide shared spigots rather than individual connections.
Site sizing considerations: RV lengths over 28 feet face significant limitations in the Bernville area. "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, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
