Tent camping options near Bristol, Pennsylvania range from established group campsites to remote wilderness areas that require hiking or boating to access. The region sits where the Delaware Valley meets the Piedmont, creating diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 40 to 400 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds have sandy soil with some exposed roots and rocks that require careful tent placement, especially after rainfall when certain areas become soggy.
What to do
Explore Revolutionary War history: Fort Washington State Park contains nearly 500 acres with 3.5 miles of trails leading to observation decks. "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," notes a visitor to Fort Washington State Park Campground.
Bird watching opportunities: The region offers excellent bird watching, particularly at Fort Washington's observation platform. "You can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn," according to another camper. Birds spotted include "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles, Great Horned & Barn Owls."
Water activities: Several campgrounds provide access to water for boating, swimming, and fishing. At Round Valley State Park Campground, "if you come with your own boat, you can access by water" and enjoy a "crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water." The 2,350-acre reservoir is 180 feet deep in the middle, making it ideal for paddling.
What campers like
Secluded camping experience: Campers appreciate the feeling of remoteness at several locations. At Batona — Wharton State Forest, visitors enjoy "secluded sites available" and note it's "easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!"
Flat, shaded campsites: Most tent camping areas offer relatively level terrain with good tree coverage. At Goshen Pond, a camper mentioned that "sites are nicely in the trees" and that most "campsites are fairly shaded by the pines, and the ground is flat throughout."
Hiking accessibility: Campers enjoy direct trail access from many sites. "Walking Trails Directly From Campsite" is highlighted by a reviewer at Batona Campground, who added: "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Many tent campsites have basic amenities only. A camper at Washington Crossing State Park notes: "Facilities are deliberately minimal... Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of 'leave no trace' ethos."
Access challenges: Some campsites require significant effort to reach. At Round Valley, "you can either hike in to a site up to 7 miles or load everything onto kayaks." Another visitor warns: "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."
Reservation requirements: Most sites need advance booking, particularly for group camping. At Washington Crossing, "reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds with amenities: For families with younger children, select locations with accessible facilities. Tip Tam Camping Resort is "a great place for kids and tons of activities. Campground is very clean and staff goes above and beyond." Another reviewer mentioned "they have peddle cars and playgrounds."
Plan for early mornings: Some campgrounds get active early. One camper at Tip Tam noted: "The only downside I saw was people here are up way too early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in to fill the propane and was extremely loud."
Pack extra supplies: Basic campsites require bringing all essentials. At Fort Washington, a camper advises: "I would definitely encourage you to bring EVERYTHING you might need to have a great experience – from chairs, tables, BBQ and even a brush and rake!"
Tips for RVers
Size restrictions: Most tent-focused sites near Bristol have limitations for larger vehicles. At Evansburg State Park Campground, while the park is "big-rig friendly," a visitor notes: "only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. Some are further than others."
Consider road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. At Batona Campground, "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle." Another adds: "Site are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Limited hookup options: Most wilderness tent campsites lack RV amenities. When hookups are available, they're typically limited to designated areas rather than primitive tent sites.
