Campsites near Broomall, Pennsylvania span diverse landscapes of the Mid-Atlantic Piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and elevations averaging 300-400 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making May through October the primary camping season with daytime temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Several campgrounds offer primitive sites with limited amenities, while others provide full hookups, modern facilities and trail access.
What to do
Hiking on multi-use trails: French Creek State Park offers 35 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. "There are plenty of trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake, and an amphitheater at the campground where they hold events and Sunday morning church services," notes Jen R. from French Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing in local lakes: Multiple lakes near Broomall provide fishing opportunities year-round. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes," shares a reviewer at French Creek State Park.
Water activities: Lums Pond State Park Campground in Delaware offers paddling options just an hour from Broomall. "Great outdoor area around it. You can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," writes Leah H. This makes an excellent day trip for campers based near Broomall who want to add water activities to their itinerary.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region provide well-spaced sites with natural screening. "The sites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well," says Jen R. about Hibernia County Park. "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."
Clean facilities: Reviewers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms at several parks. "Bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Lums Pond State Park. The attention to cleanliness makes longer stays more comfortable.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides chances to observe local fauna. "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" reports Christina H. at Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park. The most popular parks can fill months ahead for summer weekends.
Park rules vary significantly: Each park has distinct regulations regarding quiet hours, pets, alcohol and fires. "They do patrol the sites with a police presence in the evening," mentions Jesse G. about Brendan Byrne State Forest. "Strict rules so that nature lovers can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about noisy neighbors or trash everywhere. Not a place you go to if you want to throw a rowdy party," adds Christina H.
Limited equestrian camping facilities: True equestrian camping near Broomall remains scarce. While Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers extensive riding trails, dedicated horse camping amenities are minimal. "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website," notes Gen F. Horse owners should contact parks directly about trailer parking and trail access before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Very nice playground area and clean," mentions Jen R. about French Creek State Park. "The playground was excellent, by my standards. The only complaint I have is that the kiddie swings seem to be modeled after the seasickness machine," adds Mark about Lums Pond State Park.
Child-friendly fishing spots: Blackbird State Forest provides designated fishing areas suitable for young anglers. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," John Z. reports. These spots often have easier access and sometimes special programming for young fishers.
Weather preparedness: The region's summer humidity can lead to sudden thunderstorms. "It held up well during an evening thunderstorm, but for a small seam leak near the door," shares Ellen C. about camping at French Creek State Park. Pack extra tarps and rain gear, especially for summer camping trips with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Limited level, spacious sites accommodate larger RVs. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," Ellen B. explains about Lums Pond State Park. "Beautiful site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," adds Matt S.
Water access planning: Many campgrounds have limited hookups. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park. "There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'."
Electric service variations: Electrical capacity differs significantly between parks. "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp," reports Sarah about Mountainview Campground, making it suitable for various RV electrical needs.
