Tent campsites near Center Valley, Pennsylvania are situated in the rolling hills of Lehigh Valley, with elevations ranging from 400 to 800 feet above sea level. The region experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping periods when temperatures average between 50-75°F. Most tent sites in this region are located within a 30-mile radius of Center Valley, providing options across eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey.
What to do
Disc golf at Green Lane Park: The park features a full 18-hole disc golf course that's free to use with your own equipment. According to one visitor, the park offers "phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing" making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine camping with other activities.
Water activities at Round Valley State Park: Located about 35 miles from Center Valley, this park centers around a 2,350-acre reservoir that's 180 feet deep at its center. One camper notes: "Beautiful and quaint..a nice place to get away and enjoy some nature." The reservoir supports kayaking, canoeing, and swimming during warmer months.
Wildlife observation at Fort Washington: Birdwatchers will appreciate the hawk watching platforms. As one visitor explains, "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."
What campers like
Peaceful camping at Boulder Ridge Farm: This tent-only site offers a secluded experience with natural spacing. One camper shared: "Super chill...Great place to escape the stress of every day life. Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome."
Stunning views from AT Overlook Campground: Located along the Appalachian Trail near Lehigh Gap, these primitive sites offer panoramic views. A reviewer mentioned: "You can set up your tent to have a view of the valley right from your door and the space is flat, dry, and not too rocky."
Clean facilities at Green Lane Park: The park maintains well-kept restrooms and common areas. A visitor noted: "Beautiful campground. Clean restrooms, lots of open space!" Another camper commented on the "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails."
What you should know
Limited privacy at some established campgrounds: Many developed sites offer minimal separation between campsites. One camper at Green Lane Park observed: "The campground is as basic as they get. Sites are close to each other with absolutely no privacy."
Primitive amenities at AT sites: Appalachian Trail campsites require self-sufficiency. At AT Ridge Campground, a hiker noted: "Each has a stone fire ring and plenty of room for multiple tents. They are surrounded by a magical field of ferns and you can get views of both sides of the ridge with only a short walk down the trail."
Water access challenges: Many tent campgrounds require bringing your own water. At AT Overlook Campground, a visitor warned: "Just be prepared to bring in your water since there is nowhere to fill up while up on the ridge."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible nature programs: Evansburg State Park offers family-friendly outdoor activities within 20 miles of Center Valley. One parent shared: "Since he was 2 years old I've taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails to wandering in the woods looking for 'adventures'."
Easy camping options for beginners: Round Valley State Park Campground provides accessible sites for families new to camping. A visitor recommended: "If you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place." The park is approximately 35 miles from Center Valley.
Bring extra clothing: Some areas can be particularly muddy after rain. A regular Evansburg visitor advised: "The only downside, I've ever experienced is I find Evansburg to be the muddiest State Park I've every experienced; I always bring a pair of sneakers to change out of my hiking boots, as well as a shoes and change of clothes for the little guy."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: Most tent campsites near Center Valley don't accommodate large RVs or provide hookups. At Fort Washington State Park Campground, one visitor clarified: "Camping is group camping by reservation only, not nightly camping for individuals."
Electrical options: Some established campgrounds do offer electrical hookups for smaller RVs. A reviewer at Fort Washington noted the campground has "electric-hookups, fifty-amp-hookups, thirty-amp-hookups" available for group reservations.
Alternative RV destinations: For RVers seeking more amenities, consider campgrounds slightly farther from Center Valley. Evansburg State Park has sites that accommodate RVs and tents, with one visitor describing it as "beautiful scenery" with "moderate hiking" opportunities along small running creeks.
