Camping near Bristol, Pennsylvania ranges from primitive wilderness options to established campsites with amenities. The region sits within the Delaware River watershed, where the terrain varies from flat riverbanks to rolling hills covered in oak and pine forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder weather in the 60-75°F range with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Hiking historic trails: At Washington Crossing State Park, trails follow routes with Revolutionary War significance. "There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," shares Katie M. about nearby French Creek State Park.
Fishing in stocked lakes: Fish for northern pike, chain pickerel, bass and walleye in the lakes at Brendan Byrne State Forest. "The campside was clean, spacious, includes the firepit and the table. While we were surrounded by other campers, we enjoyed how private it was," notes Olga G. about fishing areas at Wharton State Forest.
Water activities: Kayak, canoe or row on the lakes throughout the region. "It's a beautiful day on Sunday so my girlfriend and I decided to picnic in the park. The areas for that seemed well groomed, bathrooms were acceptable, and there was plenty of space," says Seth S. about recreation at Washington Crossing State Park.
What campers like
Private campsites: The campgrounds near Bristol often feature wooded sites with natural separation. "The sites are spacious and it's really beautiful. They have tent and RV sites and you are allowed to have a tent on the site with an RV at no extra charge," notes Katheryn N. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities. "The bathrooms were in really good condition, well cleaned and stocked, and was pleasant to use! The campsites are a little bit close to each and didnt offer much privacy but they were right in top of each other," reports Dorian P. about Brendan Byrne State Forest.
Natural settings: Campsites nestled in the New Jersey Pine Barrens provide unique ecosystems to explore. "I grew up at this camp ground. Spent every summer here. Some of my favorite things about this place are it's far away from traffic noise. You can't here any cars or any other noise from civilization at all," shares Benjamin K. about camping at Brendan Byrne State Forest.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds have rocky terrain that limits tent placement. "It was a really nice size, and the kids could fish right off the dock on the back," notes Aaron E. about site 38 at Timberland Lake Campground.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (May-September), reservations are recommended at most campgrounds. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! 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 Galit P. about off-season camping.
Seasonal variations: Winter glamping in Bristol, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas is limited, with many campgrounds closing from November through March. "Went during the week, there were 4 sites taken adjacent to me, the rest of the campsite barely had anyone," reports Steve about mid-week camping at Wharton State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "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," shares JAEWOOK P. about their family experience at Turkey Swamp Park.
Swimming options: Pools and swimming areas are available at select locations during summer months. "They have a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," says Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Seasonal activities keep children entertained throughout their stay. "This campground has all pull-through sites. Nicely wooded with water and electric. They also allowed us to put the car tent on the same site as a friend's camper. There's a nice lake to kayak or paddle boat on," explains Jean T. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Some campgrounds have narrow roads and tight turns that challenge larger rigs. "Sites in Loops B-E all have pull-thru driveways. Sites are all level, very generous in size, and reasonably spaced apart for privacy," advises Lee D. about Turkey Swamp Park.
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary by campground and specific sites. "Our site was nice but far from the activities and to get there you must go around the lake using the same road the cars and golf carts are using," notes Ann Marie M. about navigating Timberland Lake Campground with children.
Proximity to attractions: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to regional points of interest. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. The park is clean, quiet, full of families. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily," shares Jason E. about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
