Tent camping near Chalfont, Pennsylvania offers seasonal options within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with mild summers and moderate rainfall between May and September. Winter camping isn't common as most facilities close after October, though Boulder Ridge Farm remains open year-round with walk-in primitive sites.
What to do
Hiking along waterways: At Evansburg State Park, trails wind alongside small creeks with moderate shade coverage. "Lots of tree cover running along a small running creek," notes Gary O., who enjoyed the moderate hiking terrain. The park provides access to fishing spots and multiple trail difficulty levels.
Disc golf courses: Green Lane Park maintains an 18-hole disc golf course popular with weekend visitors. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," reports Benjamin C., who recommends it as a "great little getaway" for outdoor enthusiasts seeking activities beyond camping.
Bird watching opportunities: Fort Washington State Park features dedicated observation areas for seasonal hawk migration viewing. One visitor mentioned the "great trails for birdwatching that will allow you to check out warblers, woodpeckers, various hawks and red thrushes." The park's Militia Hill section draws birders throughout spring and fall migration periods.
What campers like
Secluded camping among rock formations: Boulder Ridge Farm provides walk-in tent sites surrounded by large boulder formations. A camper named Jnear139 described being "lulled to sleep by owls" and mentioned the "super chill" atmosphere with "plenty of fire wood" and "really cool huge rocks" as highlights of their experience.
Accessible water features: Round Valley State Park offers lake-side camping with crystal clear water views. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean," reports James R., who adds that "if you're looking for a getaway without doing backcountry planning this is the place." Sites require either boat-in or hike-in access of 3-6 miles.
Historical context: Washington Crossing State Park provides camping amid Revolutionary War historical sites. A visitor described it as "a hidden gem tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain," noting the "flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds close from November through March. Green Lane Park operates from April through October with limited winter trail access. One reviewer noted: "Bathrooms are nice and clean with plenty of them around the park. Rangers will pass by and check that everyone is in the correct sites but that's about it."
Site privacy concerns: Many campgrounds offer limited separation between sites. At Green Lane Park, a camper named Tara T. observed: "The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you'll definitely be right up on your neighbors. The fire rings are big and frustrating, the fire sits on a lifted grate so you go through wood like crazy."
Permit requirements: Group camping often requires advance permits rather than individual site registration. At Washington Crossing State Park, a reviewer mentioned the structured format: "This isn't the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly fishing spots: Hibernia County Park maintains a dedicated children's fishing pond for kids 12 and under. A family camper shared: "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12... The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing."
Playground access: Several parks offer playground facilities within walking distance of campsites. Hibernia County Park features "a great playground" alongside its camping areas, according to John Z., who appreciated the inexpensive $15 per night fee despite the basic amenities of "only picnic table and fire ring."
Easy-access bathrooms: For families with young children, bathroom proximity matters. At Hibernia's Lake Campground, Anna noted "porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp," which helped with nighttime bathroom trips for her children aged 3-12.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campgrounds near Chalfont restrict RV size and provide minimal amenities. At Hibernia County Park, a camper traveling with a 28-foot fifth wheel advised: "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. There is one spigot at the bathroom."
Creative parking strategies: Jennifer S., who camps at Hibernia in a 28-foot fifth wheel, recommends specific sites: "Though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Dump station alternatives: Since most tent-focused campgrounds lack dump stations, planning ahead is essential. At Hibernia, a reviewer warns: "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home."
