Camping sites near Exton, Pennsylvania offer access to both the rural landscapes of Chester County and nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. The region sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level with rolling terrain and several tributaries of the Brandywine River running through the area. During fall months, overnight temperatures can drop below 40°F, requiring campers to pack additional layers and appropriate sleeping gear.
What to do
Hiking trails at French Creek State Park: The park offers 35 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels. A camper notes, "We went for a small hike around the lake - we were toting three kids, one of which was in a stroller. I was able to fit 5 diapers, a large bottle of suntan lotion, a pack of wipes, snack container, travel changing pad, Matador large NanoDry towel, Matador droplet wet bag and a bottle of milk on the side in the drink pocket."
Fishing at Hibernia County Park: This park offers a dedicated children's fishing pond for young anglers. One visitor mentioned, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," while another added, "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too."
Canoe rentals at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA: Located on the Brandywine River, this campground offers canoe rentals and river access. A camper shared, "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float." Another mentioned, "This campground is right on a creek with availability to use canoes."
Mini golf at Spring Gulch Resort: Take a break from hiking with family-friendly mini golf. A review notes, "Mini golf was fun but need to be regreened….several holes needed maintenance." Another camper mentioned the campground has "Activities though the day were fun" and "They had a live band one evening."
What campers like
Private wooded sites at French Creek State Park: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. One reviewer noted, "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." Another mentioned, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other."
Amish country views at Lancaster-New Holland KOA: This campground offers unique cultural views. A camper described it as a "Beautiful peaceful place" with "Peaceful, serene, and a little slice of heaven with super clean bathrooms and friendly host." Another mentioned, "Great views of the valley and Amish farms. Everyone has been very friendly."
Year-round availability: Some campgrounds in the region remain open during winter months. A camper at French Creek State Park noted, "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." This makes the area suitable for off-season camping when crowds are smaller.
Good cell coverage: Unlike more remote areas, campgrounds near Exton typically have reliable cell service. A visitor to French Creek State Park mentioned, "Stopped over for a night on a drive, good cell service and lots of foliage between sites keeps them pretty private."
What you should know
Limited shower facilities at some parks: Hibernia County Park has minimal facilities. A camper noted, "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice." Another camper at Hibernia noted, "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Weekend-only operations: Some campgrounds have limited seasonal availability. A Hibernia County Park visitor explained, "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."
Dump station limitations: Not all campgrounds offer this amenity. At Hibernia County Park, a reviewer warned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose Loop A at French Creek for easier tent camping: This area offers better terrain for family setups. A camper observed, "We also checked out the other loops for future use and found Loop A to have very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C."
Bring entertainment for rainy days: Some campgrounds have limited indoor options. A visitor to Lancaster-New Holland KOA mentioned, "The only downfall for us was the limited things to do with a child. They have a swinger but nothing else. It's hard to entertain on rainy days."
Consider cabin options for convenience: Several campgrounds offer cabin rentals for families new to camping. At Lake-In-Wood Campground, a visitor shared, "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others. Nice playground for the kids and a small arcade."
Pack for muddy conditions: Several parks in the area can get quite muddy after rain. A visitor to Evansburg State Park advised, "The only downside, I've ever experienced is I find Evansburg to be the muddiest State Park I've every experienced; I always bring a pair of sneakers to change out of my hiking boots, as well as a shoes and change of clothes for the little guy."
Tips from RVers
Reserve premium sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA: These offer better amenities but at a higher price point. A reviewer noted, "We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site#25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept."
Be cautious with larger rigs on narrow roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access. One RVer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA explained, "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. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road."
Look for full hookup options at Lums Pond State Park: Though slightly further from Exton, this park offers excellent RV amenities. A camper praised, "We paid $46 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Back-in site(#56). This place is a gem, even among nice state parks." Another mentioned, "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer."
Consider specific site recommendations: At Hibernia County Park, an experienced camper advised, "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."
