Camping opportunities abound within a 30-mile radius of Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, where the rolling hills of Montgomery County create natural boundaries between campgrounds and suburban communities. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Fall camping season typically runs from September through early November when nighttime temperatures can dip into the 40s, requiring adequate insulation for tent campers.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Boulder Woods Campground features an extensive disc golf course that draws enthusiasts from across the region. "They also have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf," notes one visitor to Boulder Woods Campground.
Fishing excursions: The lakes at French Creek State Park offer diverse fishing opportunities throughout the year. "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," shares a regular visitor to the park.
Historic exploration: Washington Crossing State Park connects campers with Revolutionary War history while providing outdoor recreation. "The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side offers organized group tent camping," explains a reviewer who visited Washington Crossing State Park.
Covered bridge tours: Several covered bridges surround the campgrounds near Blue Bell, offering photographic opportunities and historical context. "The fact that there was an old mill on the property and a covered bridge right out front for post wedding photos was icing on the cake for us," mentioned a camper who celebrated their wedding at Tohickon Family Campground.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the layout at French Creek State Park. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," reports one visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower quality matters to campers in this region. "The bathrooms were nice and clean, showers were nice. There are a few bath houses that make the large camp ground have easy access to the bathrooms which I appreciated," notes a tent camper at Boulder Woods Campground.
Welcoming staff: Many campgrounds in the area receive praise for their hospitable management. "We had a great time. The staff was super friendly and helpful. We also filled our propane tank here. The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds," shared an RVer who stayed near Philadelphia.
Late season availability: Some campgrounds remain open year-round, offering off-season experiences. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby. I'm a women in my thirties traveling alone and I felt very safe here," reported a winter camper at French Creek State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Blue Bell require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you as it was unclear if checks were accepted," advises a solo traveler to French Creek.
Site conditions vary: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park has limited privacy between sites. "Campground is as basic as they get. Sites are close to each other with absolutely no privacy. Bathrooms however are nice and clean with plenty of them around the park," explains a reviewer of Green Lane Park.
Age restrictions for seasonal campers: Some campgrounds have specific requirements for long-term stays. "Three years ago, we fell in love with this campground. We knew we had to find an RV and become seasonals. Fast forward, we bought one, went to talk to them... They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer. Ours is 13."
Environmental considerations: Some areas can become muddy after rain. "Don't come if you're in a tent and it has been or will rain. It becomes flooded or turns into a mud pit," warns a camper about Tohickon Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "They have so much to do for kids!" shares a visitor to Boulder Woods. Another parent adds, "This is a great place to take the kids for a night or two of lovely moderate hiking and outdoor experience," about Tohickon Valley County Park.
Multiple activity options: Family-friendly glamping near Blue Bell, Pennsylvania often includes diverse recreation choices. "Great park to do everything outdoorsy including, hiking, horseback riding, hunting and fishing. I caught a beautiful Brown Trout here a few weeks ago!" reports a visitor to Evansburg State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly trails: The hiking paths at many area campgrounds accommodate young explorers. "Since he was 2 years old I've taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails or wandering in the woods looking for adventures," shares a parent about Evansburg State Park.
Special weekend events: Many campgrounds offer themed activities for families. "This camp ground has a very large golf disc course and they seem to have tournaments. They sell disc golf things in the store as well. This course is huge and brings in groups who play for the day," noted a weekend camper.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: French Creek State Park offers paved, level areas for RVs. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," notes one RVer, while adding that "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."
Navigation assistance: Some campgrounds provide parking help for larger rigs. "The spots are tight to get into but the staff will offer to park your camper using your vehicle. I let them park mine and I'm really glad I did. It was super tight," advises an RV owner who stayed at Boulder Woods.
Limited hookup options: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," shares a French Creek visitor about their weekend experience.
Nearby supply access: Most glamping destinations near Blue Bell provide convenient access to stores for resupplying. "Plenty of shopping nearby, fortunately for me because I had to run to Home Depot for a quick repair item," mentions an RVer who was fixing their rig during their stay.
