Cabin camping options near Broomall offer year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation within a 30-mile radius. While Ridley Creek State Park primarily provides group camping facilities, several private campgrounds fill the gap with individual accommodations. The region's camping season generally extends from April through October, though some facilities operate year-round with winter-specific activities. Most sites require advance booking, especially during summer months when demand peaks across all southeastern Pennsylvania campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing at local waterways: Evansburg State Park features excellent trout fishing opportunities in its streams. "I caught a beautiful Brown Trout here a few weeks ago! Great park. (I put the Trout back in, it was very healthy and I managed to get the hook out quickly, otherwise he would have been dinner!)" notes one visitor at Evansburg State Park Campground. A fishing license with trout endorsement ($9.90) is required for anglers.
Winter camping adventures: French Creek State Park offers one of the few winter camping options in the region. "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," reports a solo female traveler at French Creek State Park Campground. The park's honor system payment makes late arrivals and early departures convenient.
Kayaking on calm waters: Multiple waterways around Broomall provide paddling opportunities. At Philadelphia West Chester KOA, campers can enjoy the Brandywine River. "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," explains a reviewer who frequents the campground for equipment testing trips.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between sites at French Creek State Park. "There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," explains a frequent visitor. The park offers both electric-only and primitive sites, with spigots available throughout camping loops.
Clean bathroom facilities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA receives consistent praise for its immaculate facilities. "The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds," notes one camper who used the campground as a base for Philadelphia exploration. The park's proximity to downtown Philadelphia (20 minutes) makes it popular for urban day trips.
Excellent bird watching: Fort Washington State Park provides specialized facilities for bird watchers. "Should you call yourself a bird watcher, you'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn," explains a visitor to Fort Washington State Park Campground. The observation deck gives visitors views of numerous species including Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, and Bald Eagles.
What you should know
Group camping requirements: Several parks near Broomall primarily offer group camping rather than individual sites. "This is a great place for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on," explains a regular visitor to Ridley Creek State Park.
Limited winter services: While some campgrounds operate year-round, expect reduced amenities during winter months. "Stayed over for one night in early December. 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 a winter camper.
Non-resident restrictions: Some local parks have residency requirements. At Alverthorpe Private Park, camping is "Restricted to only residents. Looks nice, if you can actually stay here," reports a cross-country traveler who was turned away. Always call ahead to confirm eligibility and reservation requirements.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated kids' activities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," reports a family camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Consider "glamping" options: For families new to camping, glamping provides comfort while still enjoying the outdoors. "My husband and I stayed for a week in one of the glamping tents. The staff was very friendly and the tents were more glamorous than we had tried before, but definitely had a good combination of woodsy and comfort," shares a camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Plan for urban attractions: Camping near Broomall offers unique urban-adjacent opportunities. "We stayed here for 3 nights while visiting family in Philadelphia. It is a 20 minute ride into Philly and Uber was quick and responsive," notes a family visitor using the campground as a base for city exploration.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for site constraints: RV sites in the region often have specific limitations. "I had 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," warns a visitor at Philadelphia West Chester KOA who recommends trailers or fifth wheels as better options for certain sites.
Consider state park options: For more spacious RV sites, state parks often provide better value than private campgrounds. "Beautiful site(once you're in it!) including patio furniture on a paver patio and seating around an upgraded fire pit. The landscaping made up for the tight squeeze," reports an RVer at Philadelphia West Chester KOA who paid $135/night for a back-in patio site during Memorial Day weekend.
Look for full hookup availability: Lums Pond State Park offers some of the best full hookup options in the region. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," explains a regular visitor to Lums Pond State Park Campground, which is often considered one of the best places to camp near Broomall, Pennsylvania for RVers seeking full amenities.
