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Best Campgrounds near Bristol, PA

730 Reviews

Camping options surrounding Bristol, Pennsylvania range from developed state park campgrounds to private RV parks, with multiple locations available within 30-40 miles of the city. The area includes established campgrounds like Wharton State Forest and French Creek State Park, which accommodate tent campers, RVs, and cabin stays. Several campgrounds in the New Jersey Pine Barrens offer water access, while others like Turkey Swamp Park and Brendan Byrne State Forest provide year-round camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities.

Access to campgrounds varies significantly by location and season, with some sites requiring reservations well in advance during peak summer months. Many campgrounds close or limit services between late October and April, though French Creek State Park and Brendan Byrne State Forest maintain year-round availability. One camper noted, "The campground is hilly which means that a fair number of sites are not level. Our site was level for our RV but the patio sloped downhill and we could not use our picnic table." Roads within some campgrounds may be narrow or unpaved, particularly in Wharton State Forest where visitors have reported "single car only, with a good amount of spots to pull off if you find yourself head to head with another vehicle."

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, with several campgrounds offering sites adjacent to lakes or rivers. At Atsion Family Camp in Wharton State Forest, campers highlight the lakeside sites, with one visitor commenting, "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake." Most state park campgrounds provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms, while private campgrounds typically offer more extensive facilities like electrical hookups, water connections, and shower buildings. The region tends to get crowded during summer weekends and holidays, with visitors recommending advance reservations, especially for waterfront sites. For those seeking solitude, weekday camping in spring or fall offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds at most campgrounds in the area.

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Best Camping Sites Near Bristol, Pennsylvania (108)

    1. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    8 Reviews
    Titusville, NJ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 737-0623

    $50 - $100 / night

    "I always look forward to going because it is consistently clean, great for riding bikes and taking pets for a walk and children for a stroll PLUS it is significant  historically and it is enjoyable for"

    "Good for biking and dog walking."

    2. Brendan Byrne State Forest

    18 Reviews
    Chatsworth, NJ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 726-1191

    $3 - $60 / night

    "Campsite decent size, but some don't have clear boundaries to neighbors, and sometimes not optimally configured (e.g., the site next door's fire pit was placed on the edge of its site/right next to my"

    "First off, I will start by saying you have to drive a good amount of distance to get into the campground and that is something I really enjoyed!"

    3. Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest

    23 Reviews
    Hammonton, NJ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 268-0444

    "It was a great location, closest site to the water with beautiful views. Super convenient if you're a Kayaker, you can launch right off that spot. Its a huge site, away from other sites."

    "The campside was clean, spacious, includes the firepit and the table. While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was!!! Will come back again!!!"

    4. Timberland Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Cream Ridge, NJ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 928-0500

    "They do their own haunted walk through that is just awesome! Everyone decorates. They have a dj every Saturday! Plenty of activities for the kids. They have cool raffles!"

    "As a kid - close to 6 flags where we had season passes... it was Jellystone yogi bear at the time.

    Very close to 6 flags great adventure."

    5. Turkey Swamp Park

    28 Reviews
    Freehold, NJ
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (732) 462-7286

    $42 - $79 / night

    "Heavily wooded and supremely quiet, it’s located not far from anywhere you’d want to be. 30 minutes to the shore. Every site is a pull-through, large and spacious with great woodland views. 30amp and"

    "Water is more than 40 feet away from your parking so 25' hose if not enough.

    If you have GFIC in your RV, ask for a non-GFIC site, or it will trip on you."

    6. Fort Washington State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Ambler, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 591-5250

    $28 - $72 / night

    "It's almost 500 acres filled with trails, woods,and river. I usually go to the parking right off of Militia hill rd.and Skippack Pike intersection."

    "Come for Militia Hill, hawk watching, cross country ski, or disc golf, and the trails along the Wissahickon Creek."

    7. Alverthorpe Private Park

    3 Reviews
    Jenkintown, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 884-6538

    $1 - $100 / night

    8. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 423-6677

    "They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."

    "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"

    9. Batona — Wharton State Forest

    11 Reviews
    Chatsworth, NJ
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "I grew up near the pine barrens and would camp here many times with friends.  If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!

    You might even see the Jersey Devil :)"

    "Best part about the campground is that it's right on the 50 mile Batona Trail so it's a great stop-over assuming you've made reservations. No first-come first-serve."

    10. French Creek State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    50 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."

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Recent Camping Photos near Bristol, PA

288 Photos of 108 Bristol Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bristol, PA

730 Reviews of 108 Bristol Campgrounds

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Wonderful campground!

    Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!! They make sure your stay is exactly what you’d want it to be.. getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back. Overall very impressed!! They even were able To get us in very last minute WITH full hook ups for my trailer!!!!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

  • Jessica V.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Great weekend spot

    We went with friends for a weekend. Both families have little kids and it was a great spot with a playground, construction digging area, and a bunch of activities for the kids to do. We went in September so the pool was closed but it looked like a nice size. Full hook ups which was great! Also they have a nice stream that everyone went fishing at. They are building some new sites at the end of the property.

  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Get Your Hard-Core Hiking In To Enjoy This CG

    Located just south of I78 and near the small hamlets of Clinton and Lebanon, what I love most about Round Valley SP is the fact that it has its very own eponymous fresh water reservoir, which spanning some 2,350 acres and is 180 feed deep in the middle, this body of water provides a solid amount of upside for anyone wanting to kayak, canoe or swim. One of the greatest assets at this particular SP CG are the wonderful rangers who keep this place in such tip-top condition year-round. From the North Picnic Area, Bray’s Hill Preserve and Round Valley Beachhead to the East Picnic Area, Round Valley Farm on the eastern side of the reservoir as well as Round Valley Rec Area, there’s a lot to explore at this SP.

    One interesting fact about this place– believe it or not– it is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping(a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat, you can access by water– and can be found on the SE corner of the reservoir. There is a second area nearby called Spruce Run Recreation Area that can be accessed by driving to this location, which is on the other side of I78 NW of Round Valley SP. That said, if you’re looking to camp here at Round Valley, I highly recommend you boat in as the hiking path is incredibly difficult to manage without hauling all of your camping gear, so coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/ prohibitive.

    When you finally do arrive to this primitive CG immersed in NJ’s thick wild foliage, you’ll experience waterfront bliss with a crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water, and you won’t get much in the way of amenities, apart from a few random water pumps and some rocks piled in a circle that, um, I guess makes up a fire ring. While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you’ll come across the‘stank’ well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn’t use them. There’s picnic tables, but the one we had was in pretty rough condition. The thing I found odd about the place is that after hiking so far in to get to this location, you’re not allowed to swim in the reservoir, which kind of defeats the entire point IMHO. That said, the views are amazing and because there’s nothing else in these parts, you will experience true peace in nature.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible– packing too much to come here just isn’t worth the work;(2) We found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly;(3) While the water in the reservoir may look crystal clear, it is not crystal clean and I would STRONGLY encourage anyone who thinks that it is OK to drink from the reservoir to at least use a Life Straw to ensure they don’t get sick;(4) I have hiked throughout the entire US and consider myself somewhere between a moderate to skilled hiker and I found these trails challenging and uneven, so while the hike we made was only 3 miles, it was not easy and I would be worried about someone breaking an ankle getting to this CG– so at a minimum, ensure you are wearing proper hiking boots. Seriously, for what this SP puts you through to access this CG one really needs to question why they’re being charged anything at all in the first place.

    Happy Camping!

  • J
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Turkey Swamp Park

    Fantastic camping ground

    We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn’t even use mosquito repellent and didn’t get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • Scott K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Bass River State Forest

    Fantastic Experience

    My first time solo camping and it couldn’t have gone better. The staff there are top notch. Clean site. So much to do. Couldn’t recommend enough.

Guide to Bristol

Camping near Bristol, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the variety of trails available.
  • Fishing: Enjoy some fishing at Lums Pond State Park Campground. A camper shared, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Swimming: Visit Round Valley State Park Campground for a refreshing swim. One reviewer noted, "The lake was beautiful and clean," perfect for a hot summer day.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Lums Pond State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "Nice smaller campground with large spacious sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained bathrooms at Camp Taylor Campground. One reviewer stated, "Bathrooms were very clean and shower area as well."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the activities available at Lake-In-Wood Campground. A camper said, "The campground is very well maintained, and the staff is very nice."

What you should know:

  • Limited Accessibility: Some campgrounds, like Round Valley State Park Campground, require a hike or boat to access. One camper warned, "The hike to get to the campground is a bit long."
  • No Pets Allowed: If you're bringing a furry friend, check the rules. For example, Lums Pond State Park Campground does not allow pets, as noted by a reviewer: "NO pets allowed."
  • Seasonal Limitations: Some campgrounds, like Round Valley State Park Campground, are only open from April to October, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Camp Taylor Campground, where one family said, "The kids immediately took to exploring the creek and woods behind our campsite."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground mentioned, "There is a kiddie pool, as well as an indoor/outdoor pool."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring along items that make camping easier for kids. One reviewer at Turkey Swamp Park said, "The sites are all pull-through," which can make setting up easier.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Belleplain State Forest noted, "The sites are big," which is great for larger RVs.
  • Be Prepared for Terrain: Some campgrounds, like Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest, have sandy roads. A visitor mentioned, "The ground is sandy and relatively level for easy camp set up."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: RVers at Turkey Swamp Park appreciated the laundry facilities, saying, "There's a laundry that doesn't take quarters," which can be handy for longer stays.

Camping around Bristol, PA, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specific campground rules and amenities before you go!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Bristol?

The Bristol region offers several exceptional camping options. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA stands out as a premier campground located in beautiful Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills, though the access roads can be narrow and windy. For nature lovers, Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest provides a clean, spacious camping experience with private sites, fire pits, and tables. The G014 site is particularly desirable with waterfront views and kayak launch access. Both offer a great balance of natural setting and convenient amenities within driving distance of the Bristol area.

Are there any free camping areas in Bristol?

While traditional free camping is limited in the Bristol area, several businesses offer overnight parking options for self-contained RVs. Walmart — Hamilton Supercenter provides convenient overnight parking just minutes from I295. Similarly, Cracker Barrel — Clinton offers a sheltered roadside location for overnight stays. These locations typically allow free overnight parking for self-contained vehicles with no hookups, though it's always best to check with management upon arrival. Remember that these are not traditional campgrounds but rather courtesy parking areas for travelers, so practice leave-no-trace principles and patronize the businesses.

What amenities do Bristol campgrounds offer?

French Creek State Park Campground provides essential facilities including fire rings, tables, and clean restrooms, making it a popular choice for families. In contrast, Village Scene Park offers a unique experience in a suburban setting near Philadelphia with full hookup sites for RVs. Most campgrounds in the Bristol region feature standard amenities such as potable water, toilet facilities, and designated fire rings. Some parks also provide shower facilities, dump stations, and recreational opportunities like hiking trails, fishing areas, and boat launches.

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