Best Campgrounds near Chadds Ford, PA

The camping landscape surrounding Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania features both developed campgrounds and private RV parks within a 30-mile radius. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA in Coatesville offers full-service amenities with tent sites, RV hookups, and camping cabins, while French Creek State Park Campground provides a more natural setting with various accommodation types including yurts and cabins. These mixed-use campgrounds represent the spectrum of options in southeastern Pennsylvania, from privately managed facilities to state-managed public lands, all situated within an hour's drive of Philadelphia.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with peak availability from April through October. French Creek State Park remains open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. Reservations are strongly recommended during summer weekends and holidays when facilities frequently reach capacity. The terrain throughout the area is characterized by rolling hills and wooded landscapes, with many campgrounds situated near water features like lakes and creeks. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may vary in more remote sections of state parks. According to one visitor at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "This is a really nice KOA not too far from downtown Philly. The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

Campers consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty found at camping areas throughout Chester County and surrounding regions. Several visitors highlight the convenient location for exploring both urban attractions in Philadelphia and rural countryside experiences. Water access represents a significant draw for many campgrounds, with sites near lakes or creeks typically booking fastest. A review of French Creek State Park noted, "35 miles of hiking trails. Be aware that the Hopewell Lake Loop is not very well marked although blazes on trees are abundant for most trails." Campground layouts vary considerably, with some facilities offering spacious, private sites and others featuring more densely arranged camping areas. Many campgrounds provide recreational amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and hiking trails, enhancing the overall camping experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Camping Sites Near Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania (114)

    1. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

    "Everything was within close walking distance and the staff were extremely helpful. Pool and bathrooms were very clean."

    2. French Creek State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $24 - $122 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    3. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 892-3900

    $57 / night

    "well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."

    "We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back"

    4. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $27 - $45 / night

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    "The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."

    5. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 423-6677

    "They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."

    "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"

    6. Hibernia County Park

    8 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 383-3812

    $15 - $50 / night

    "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the “sites” are smaller and it's more open. It is popular with group tenters."

    "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites."

    7. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    8. Brandywine Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 942-9950

    "Girlfriend and I stayed here while we visited nearby Longwood Gardens. The tent sites are spacious and they all border the creek which is a nice sound at night, as well as a good morning view."

    "Close to Valley Forge military park, and convenient to Philadelphia by train."

    9. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville

    19 Reviews
    Quarryville, PA
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 610-4505

    "We stayed here in November with beautiful weather which meant the large farm behind the campground was spraying manure over their fields. We could smell it."

    "The site was covered and it was cool around 4:30pm when the sun went behind the trees. It didn’t look like all sites had that much cover so be careful."

    10. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

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Recent Reviews near Chadds Ford, PA

805 Reviews of 114 Chadds Ford Campgrounds


  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.


Guide to Chadds Ford

Camping near Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. One camper mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the great outdoor opportunities available at French Creek State Park Campground.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, check out the lakes and ponds nearby. A reviewer at Elk Neck State Park Campground noted, "The Susquehanna river is full of every kind of fish imaginable!"
  • Visiting Local Attractions: Many campgrounds are close to local attractions. One visitor at Old Mill Stream Campground said, "It’s awesome to not have to drive home after a day of being at an amusement park."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Lums Pond State Park Campground stated, "Great bath houses, always super clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground mentioned, "The sites appeared to all be a very good size."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville provide plenty of activities for kids. One family shared, "Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties."

What you should know:

  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Parvin State Park Campground is open from April 1 to October 31.
  • Site Conditions: Be prepared for varying site conditions. A camper at Spring Gulch Resort Campground noted, "Some of the facilities are a bit worn down, but that didn’t stop us from having a great time."
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife. A visitor at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA mentioned, "Beware of chiggers and ticks! Deet is necessary."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities for the kids. A family at Elk Neck State Park Campground enjoyed the "great trails and great staff."
  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for children. One camper at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville said, "This place is awesome for kids and families!"
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the little ones. A camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground appreciated the "Gnome Cafe on site served great food."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA mentioned, "The 50-amp electric was good as was the water pressure."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Old Mill Stream Campground advised, "Sites are tight, so know in advance how you’re going to park."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions. A visitor at Spring Gulch Resort Campground noted, "There are plenty of things to do off campground like going to Amish markets."

Camping near Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What RV campgrounds are available near Chadds Ford?

RV campers near Chadds Ford have several good options. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers a quality campground experience in beautiful Pennsylvania countryside, with convenient access to Philadelphia despite the narrow, winding approach roads. Pequea Creek Campground features large, picturesque sites with plenty of trees and quiet surroundings. It's close to Lancaster for shopping and near covered bridges and river tubing opportunities. For those needing overnight parking, several retail locations permit RV stays, though these are best for brief stopovers rather than extended camping experiences.

Where are the best camping spots near Chadds Ford, PA?

The best camping spots near Chadds Ford include French Creek State Park Campground, offering spacious car camping spots, hiking trails, a lake, and a public pool. It's perfect for escaping city life while staying close to urban amenities. Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest is another excellent option with clean, spacious sites that include fire pits and tables. The lakeside sites are ideal for kayakers, with direct water access. Both campgrounds provide a peaceful outdoor experience within reasonable driving distance of Chadds Ford.

What camping is available near Chadds Ford, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chadds Ford, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 114 campgrounds and RV parks near Chadds Ford, PA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Chadds Ford, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chadds Ford, PA is Philadelphia-West Chester KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 17 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chadds Ford, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Chadds Ford, PA.