Center Valley sits in the heart of Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, where rolling hills and hardwood forests create favorable camping conditions from late spring through early fall. The area typically receives moderate rainfall throughout summer months with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. Local campgrounds vary in elevation from 400-700 feet above sea level, creating different microclimates across the region.
What to do
Hiking trails and outdoor recreation: Near Boulder Woods Campground, visitors can explore the extensive disc golf course that winds through the property. "They have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf," shares a visitor. The campground's terrain features actual boulders and wooded areas that create a unique playing experience.
Fishing at local ponds: Many campgrounds feature fishing opportunities without leaving the property. At Colonial Woods Family Resort, "the lake where you could fish, cornhole, and minigolf" provides diverse recreation options. The ponds are typically stocked with common warm-water species suitable for beginner anglers.
Water recreation: Drive 15 minutes to Nockamixon State Park for water activities. A visitor to Ringing Rocks Family Campground notes, "If you're looking for a scenic drive that makes you forget that you're in NJ, head on over to the Alpha Grasslands Preserve in Alpha, NJ." The Delaware River is another popular option for tubing and kayaking, with rental services available in season.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: For those seeking more privacy, Lake Towhee County Park offers primitive camping in a wooded setting. "Very secluded and set back in the woods, but only a short drive to Nockamixon. Would definitely stay again!" notes one visitor. The 13-site campground features gravel sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and garbage cans.
Farm-adjacent settings: Some campgrounds border working farms, creating pastoral views. At Quakerwoods Campground, "the sunrise is pretty nice" because the tent sites are "next to a farm." The campground offers fire pit delivery service, which eliminates the need to transport firewood from a separate location.
Quiet, natural surroundings: Many campers appreciate the natural ambiance at local campgrounds. One visitor to Mountainview Campground stated, "Stayed at one of the primitive sites. Very clean and quite. Bath stalls and showers are basic but clean. Great spot for stargazing." Most sites maintain some distance from major highways, minimizing traffic noise.
What you should know
Site conditions vary dramatically: At Tohickon Family Campground, a camper warns, "Don't come if you're in a tent and it has been or will rain, it becomes flooded or turns into a mudpit." Many campgrounds have specific areas that drain poorly during wet weather.
Seasonal operations: Most glamping in Center Valley, Pennsylvania occurs between April and October. The typical seasonal window runs from "April 1 to October 31" with some variations by location. Make reservations well in advance for summer weekends and holiday periods.
Access restrictions: Some locations have specific limitations. At Mountainview Campground, a visitor noted, "After talking to them, they would not allow us to come late, but did refund the first night." Always confirm check-in times and policies before arrival, especially if planning a late arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Families appreciate campgrounds with dedicated children's programming. At Ringing Rocks Family Campground, "We went on Halloween weekend and they had so much for the kids to do! Friendly staff and clean sites!" Special weekend themes typically include crafts, hayrides, and other organized activities.
Playground facilities: Many campgrounds feature multiple play areas. At Allentown KOA, a visitor mentioned "2 different playgrounds and a pool that could use some updating," indicating amenities specifically designed for children. Some luxury glamping sites in Center Valley provide enhanced play equipment not typically found at standard campgrounds.
Water features for hot days: Look for campgrounds with swimming options. One visitor to Colonial Woods Family Resort noted, "The pool and splash pool for toddlers was clean with a lifeguard on duty at all times." Swimming facilities typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with specific hours posted at each location.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and accessibility: For large RVs, be aware that some campgrounds have tight access. A visitor to Colonial Woods Family Resort cautions, "The roads are very narrow, pretty sizable boulders on both sides, trees are very low and need to be trimmed (almost took my ac out with a huge limb)." Call ahead to confirm specific site dimensions before booking.
Utility connections: Many local glamping options offer full hookups, but locations vary. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," but water access points may not be directly at each site. Most luxury accommodations provide reliable 30-50 amp electrical service for climate control systems.
Seasonal site restrictions: Some campgrounds limit permanent setups. A visitor to Boulder Woods Campground noted, "They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer. Ours is 13." Check age restrictions for RVs if planning extended stays at luxury glamping locations near Center Valley.
