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Camping near Blue Marsh Lake

984 Reviews

Camping near Blue Marsh Lake, Pennsylvania encompasses a range of established campgrounds within the rolling hills of southeastern Pennsylvania. The area is surrounded by several family-oriented camping resorts, including Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak in Robesonia and Blue Rocks Family Campground in Lenhartsville. French Creek State Park, located about 20 miles southeast of Blue Marsh Lake, provides a more natural camping experience with 200 individual sites across four loops. The region sits within Pennsylvania Dutch Country, offering access to both outdoor recreation and cultural attractions like the Appalachian Trail and Amish communities.

Most campgrounds in the Blue Marsh Lake area operate seasonally from April through October, with a few facilities like French Creek State Park and Sill's Family Campground remaining open year-round. Summer brings higher occupancy rates, particularly on weekends and holidays when reservations are strongly recommended. Spring and fall camping can experience significant temperature fluctuations and occasional heavy rainfall that may affect site conditions. According to campers, some sites in low-lying areas can become muddy or even flood during heavy rain events, so selecting sites on higher ground is advisable during wet weather.

The camping options around Blue Marsh Lake cater to various preferences, from tent camping to full-service RV resorts. Family campgrounds like Hickory Run and Mountain Springs Camping Resort feature amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Most established campgrounds offer electric hookups, with many providing full hookups for RVs. As one visitor noted, "There are plenty of hiking trails, and a 'yellow blaze' trail that leads directly to the Appalachian Trail." Pet-friendly options exist at most campgrounds, though specific loops or areas may be designated for campers with pets. Pennsylvania state parks in the region maintain clean facilities with reasonable rates, particularly for primitive sites during weekdays.

Map showing campgrounds near Blue Marsh Lake, PennsylvaniaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Blue Marsh Lake (159)

    1. French Creek State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / 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

    25 Reviews
    Lenhartsville, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +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. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "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"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

    4. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort

    9 Reviews
    Reinholds, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +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."

    5. Appalachian Camping Resort

    8 Reviews
    Shartlesville, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +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."

    6. Mountain Springs Camping Resort

    6 Reviews
    Shartlesville, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +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. Dutch Cousin Campground

    5 Reviews
    Denver, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 336-6911

    "Easy access and a great central location to TONS of antique shops. Very clean and very friendly. Highly recommend!"

    8. Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak

    3 Reviews
    Newmanstown, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 589-4800

    9. Sun Valley Campground

    6 Reviews
    Mohnton, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Our particular site was a bear to park in but once situated we were very happy.   The store is closed due to covid but the pool is open. "

    "The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you "."

    10. Sill's Family Campground

    4 Reviews
    Mohnton, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 484-4806

    "Many local attractions such as Maple Grove raceway, near Amish farms and a plentiful amount of antique shopping."

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Recent Camping Photos near Blue Marsh Lake

514 Photos of 159 Blue Marsh Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Blue Marsh Lake

984 Reviews of 159 Blue Marsh Lake Campgrounds

  • Gennifer K.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    Nice park

    This was a great campground. Very convenient for local sites, food, and shopping. Super clean, a large pool, and all well maintained.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Edit: 1 star- Scout sites before paying!

    Beware: these sites are not travel trailer friendly.

    We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Trees were growing up in all the sites that were available and most of the ones without trees in the way were pointing in the wrong direction for backing into and NONE were level. Called the office, they told us what other sites were available and we tried every one. Only one was remotely suitable for a travel trailer and we had to drive the wrong way through the loop to be at the right angle to even try backing it in. No luck. I’m honestly shocked that they label some of these sites as RV friendly because wow. We left and had to find other accommodations. Trying to get a refund and currently navigating their phone system/trying to get a refund. Three phone conversations later and I’ll have to call another number on Monday to get the right person to issue the refund. We’ve never stayed at PA parks before but if they’re all like this, then it makes it really hard to plan when some sites are fine for trailers and some aren’t even close. Just heads up.

    UPDATE: Called back during business hours and got the “park manager.” Could only give a partial refund for one of the two nights. I said that they weren’t clear on the condition of the sites and he said there was nothing he could do about it.

  • M
    Oct. 6, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Hard with a large group

    Harder to do with a large group due to the early quiet hours, but park is very nice and well kept

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Stoevers Dam Park

    Park is closed. We were kicked out.

    LThe park is a beautiful city park. There are 7 small, level, back-in sites with electric, a picnic table and fire pit. We arrived in a Sunday and you have to call for a permit, but the office is only open on M-F during working hours. At 8 pm, a police officer told us the park was closed because of a bear, but that they had not gotten around to putting up signs. Wound up in a Walmart instead.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Dog owners read!

    There’s four loops. All connected A through D. We just needed a place to park and sleep so I got D011. Got there at 11pm and the D loop says no pets allowed. Not sure why when they are at every other loop but we had no where else to go and the area is pretty far off from anywhere else so the ol lab stayed in the camper. The bathrooms are tile and really nice with showers. And it was really quiet and chilly so a nice fall camp site. Just know ahead of time if you’re a dog owner!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Great place to stay!

    This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff. Our site was asphalt, that was a treat, tho not all of them were...

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Stonybrook RV Resort

    This is a great place!

    We spent four nights at Stonybrook RV Resort in Lehighton, PA, for a quiet wedding anniversary getaway— and so glad we did. We paid$150 per night total for a FHU 50 Amp Premium Back-in site (#F20). This campground makes a great home-base while hanging out in the Pocono Mountains. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • This place is in super condition— everything works as it’s supposed to and is clean and maintained 
    • The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup 
    • Our site(F20) is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped 
    • We interacted with 5 members of their staff and all were welcoming and friendly to talk with 
    • There’s a heated pool behind the office/store so it’s not noisy for campers at their sites 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Just one thing— the entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn’t easy in a 45’ motorhome towing a Jeep. This may be nitpicky— and I’m not complaining about it— just letting you know to expect it on arrival. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a great campground(I’ve already recommended it to my Newmar Kountry Klub chapter president as a possible site for a future rally).

Guide to Blue Marsh Lake

Camping near Blue Marsh Lake, Pennsylvania, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Blue Marsh Lake. Many campers enjoy the scenic views while hiking or biking. One visitor at French Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The state park has numerous hiking and biking opportunities and probably some fishing as well."
  • Fishing: The lake is a popular spot for fishing. Campers at Locust Lake State Park Campground have noted, "The lake was very clean," making it a great place to cast a line.
  • Family Activities: Many campgrounds offer family-friendly activities. At Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville, one camper shared, "Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties and hay rides."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at French Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer said, "Very spacious sites," which makes it easier to enjoy your own space.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Lake-In-Wood Campground remarked, "The bathrooms were very clean, as well as the outhouse."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, one guest noted, "Always a good experience. Our site was very spacious."

What you should know:

  • Site Levels: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A camper at Circle M RV and Camping Resort mentioned, "The sites are uneven. Must have leveling blocks."
  • Crowded Areas: Popular campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Thousand Trails Hershey said, "The campground is packed and tight sites."
  • Limited Amenities in Off-Season: Some facilities may not be available in the off-season. A reviewer at Jonestown/Hershey KOA noted, "The store hours are erratic, so good luck getting breakfast in the morning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, one parent said, "The playground was great. Lots of activities."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring food or check if the campground has a store. A camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground mentioned, "The Gnome Cafe on site served great food."
  • Check for Events: Many campgrounds have special events. A visitor at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville shared, "Plenty to do every day and night, movies, jump pad, crafts."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Hersheypark Camping Resort said, "The sites are a little small, but we have a small travel trailer so we didn’t have any issues."
  • Arrive Early: Get to the campground early to secure a good spot. A visitor at Circle M RV and Camping Resort noted, "They let you pick your own when you get in, 'cause they are so small, unlevel and difficult to get into."
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: If you're visiting during peak times, expect busy campgrounds. A camper at Thousand Trails Hershey mentioned, "The campground is packed and tight sites."

Camping near Blue Marsh Lake, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any campgrounds near Blue Marsh Lake in PA?

Several campgrounds are located within a short drive of Blue Marsh Lake. Sill's Family Campground near Mohnton offers drive-in and walk-in access with reservable sites featuring water and toilet facilities that accommodate big rigs. Blue Rocks Family Campground is another excellent option situated in the woods and rolling hills just below the Appalachian Trail. This large campground provides a true 'Rocksylvania' experience with RV sites nestled among the trees. Other nearby options include Starlite Camping Resort in Stevens and Dutch Cousin Campground near Denver, both offering full amenities and convenient access to Blue Marsh Lake's recreational opportunities.

Where are the camping areas at Blue Marsh Lake?

Blue Marsh Lake itself doesn't have designated camping areas within the recreation area. However, nearby French Creek State Park Campground offers excellent camping opportunities just a short drive away. French Creek provides car camping spots with convenient access, nice hiking trails, and a lake. For those seeking alternatives close to Blue Marsh Lake, Adventure Bound Camping Resort at Eagles Peak near Robesonia provides drive-in access with reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly. While Blue Marsh Lake is primarily a day-use recreation area focusing on boating, fishing, hiking, and other water activities, these nearby campgrounds make excellent base camps for exploring the lake.

What amenities are available at Blue Marsh Lake camping areas?

Since Blue Marsh Lake doesn't have designated camping areas within the recreation area itself, visitors seeking amenities should look to nearby campgrounds. Pequea Creek Campground offers beautiful picturesque sites with large spots among many trees, providing a quiet atmosphere with Saturday night music bingo for entertainment. Shady Oak Campground features both full hookup sites (mostly gravel) and grassy sites without sewer that offer more of a camping park feel. Their facilities include clean bathrooms with great hot water, though slightly dated. Both locations provide convenient access to Blue Marsh Lake while offering the camping amenities the lake recreation area itself doesn't provide.

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