Best Camping near Chester, PA

Chester is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Chester. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Chester. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Chester, PA (126)

    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground

    1. French Creek State Park Campground

    75 Reviews
    379 Photos
    427 Saves
    Geigertown, Pennsylvania

    In Pennsylvania, the once industrious geography of North Coventry and Warwick now serves as home to 7,730 acres of protected wilderness known as French Creek State Park. Right in the heart of the Schuylkill Highlands, the park’s boundaries make up the largest mass of forested space between anywhere in Washington D.C. and New York City. The diverse land consisting of forests, wetlands, marshes, and sleepy bluffs throughout have become a top destination for the people of southeast Pennsylvania to hike, fish, camp, and bike. At a point long ago, before the industrial revolution, the land was once dominated by ancient forests of American chestnut. Sadly, in 1771 foresters started to clear these trees, in order to create charcoal for the furnace at nearby Hopewell Furnace. However, the forests were still allowed to regrow, with routine clearing scheduled every 25 years thereafter. The furnace was in operation for 112 years until 1883, and its impact on the regional environment was undeniable. The once wooded hillsides, towering trees, and babbling brooks that once existed now appeared as a barren wasteland in many areas. The ecological outlook was looking dim, that is until President Roosevelt started the CCC in 1993 as a response to economic turmoil created by the Great Depression. During the same time, Governor Gifford Pinchot invited the CCC to assist in reclaiming this special land, and they subsequently worked to clear the forests and streams of brush. To commemorate the work, they began the restoration of the historic Hopewell Furnace as well as the creation of many of the facilities still in use today at the park. Among these facilities are several tent camping areas, two group camps, picnic shelters, two small dams and lakes, and even the extensive network of roads and trails that snake throughout the park. Today, the second growth has brought with it a rebirth of life and wonder to the region. This massive expansion of protected land is now home to a multitude of rare animals and plants, not commonly found in the region. For example, French Creek State Park is an Important Bird Area as designated by the National Audubon Society, and an Important Mammal Area as designated by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Pine Swamp is a State Park Natural Area. The park is now known for its diverse fishing, large abundance of wild game for hunt, and it’s plethora of outdoor recreation activities available within. Visitors to the park have a few options for overnight accommodations. The campground itself is well suited for both large and small groups, as well as individuals. In total, 201 modern sites accommodate thousands of visitors annually. The campground also boast a range of amenities, including a centrally located shower and toilet facility. Additionally, there are ten cozy cabins with heat and electricity. Finally, there are two historic group camping CCC Cabins available. The facilities include dining halls, central washhouses, and cabins for campers and staff.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lums Pond State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lums Pond State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lums Pond State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lums Pond State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lums Pond State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lums Pond State Park Campground

    2. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    46 Reviews
    98 Photos
    378 Saves
    Kirkwood, Delaware

    The newly-renovated campground offers sites with three-point hookups (water, electric and sewer), as well as four horse campsites without hookups. If you prefer a bed to a bedroll, stay in one of our yurts! These round stationary structures with canvas walls feature a single and double bed bunked together, a double bed-sized futon, an outdoor seating area, and outdoor deck. Campgrounds at Cape Henlopen, Killens Pond, Lums Pond and Trap Pond State Park are open year-round. The Cottages at Indian River Marina are also open year-round, and the campground at Delaware Seashore State Park is open year-round, although during the winter months, it is open for self-contained units only. The Division of Parks and Recreation has a Central Reservation Service. Although reservations are not required, we strongly recommend that you make one to ensure that accommodations are available. There is no additional expense to make a reservation. Reservations can be placed for campgrounds, cabins, yurts, the Cottages at Indian River Marina, and Fort Delaware tours, and Killen's Pond Waterpark..

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $6 - $42 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    3. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    18 Reviews
    35 Photos
    110 Saves
    Paulsboro, New Jersey

    At Philadelphia South/ Clarksboro KOA enjoy the peaceful, country campground experience and the convenience of Camden, NJ and downtown Philly only a short 20 minutes away. 

    If you live in the City of Brotherly Love, sometimes it is nice to have a nearby rustic escape. Or, perhaps you are a visitor who wants to combine your sightseeing with some rest and relaxation. Our camping sites near Philadelphia are the perfect solution. We offer tons of comfortable amenities and exciting on-site activities to ensure a memorable stay for your whole family. 

    Whether you want to teach the kids how to pitch a tent or you need an affordable basecamp for your Philly adventures, we cannot wait to host your stay at our local KOA just mere miles from Philadelphia.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Neck State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Neck State Park Campground

    4. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    57 Reviews
    213 Photos
    520 Saves
    Perryville, Maryland

    The Rustic Cabins are closed due to renovations. Disturbances associated with construction should be expected Monday-Friday in the Fall of 2023-​Fall 2025

    Elk Neck State Park is located in Cecil County on a peninsula, formed by the Chesapeake Bay on the west and the Elk River on the east. It makes for great camping near Washington. The park has 2,370 acres of land and includes 250 campsites, 4 youth group sites and 15 cabins. Varied landscapes include marshlands, heavily wooded areas, white clay cliffs, and sandy shorelines.

    Elk Neck State Park is divided into four areas. Turkey Point Lighthouse is located at the southern tip of the Elk Neck Peninsula. North East Beach Area and Picnic Shelters is a popular day-use area located in the western portion of the park and features a swimming area, canoe/kayak launch, picnic shelters, picnic tables, and grills. Rogues Harbor Boat Launch Facility offers public boating access to the Elk River, and fishing piers. The Elk River Camping Area is located on the eastern portion of the peninsula and offers over 250 campsites, 15 cabins (9 mini/camper cabins and 6 rustic cabins), a youth group camping area, park store, playground, and a nature center.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $21 - $55 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    5. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    16 Reviews
    84 Photos
    100 Saves
    Downingtown, Pennsylvania

    Camping in the Brandywine Valley is full of fun and adventures. Our meandering, countryside river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Bring your own canoes or kayak, rent our yellow canoes and take off from the KOA Canoe Landing, or take a day trip with a local outfitter. Reconnect, recreate, rest and relax by a campfire as you share stories, memories, and food with each other, family, and friends. Kids of all ages will love our playground, jump pad, mini golf, swimming pool, gift shop, butterfly garden, and hand-dipped ice cream.

    With Lancaster to our West and Philadelphia to our East, go back in time with a visit to historic Philadelphia & Valley Forge or take a drive through the Lancaster Amish Country. In our Brandywine River Valley, explore the mansions and gardens of Longwood, Winterthur, Hagley, and Nemours, or head to the South where you can get hot chips off the line at the Herr's Potato Chip Factory. Go to brandywinevalley.com, visitphilly.com, visitwilmingtonde.com, and discoverlancaster.com to plan your extended stay.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $59 - $86 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    6. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    10 Photos
    184 Saves
    Gradyville, Pennsylvania

    Group Camping only by arrangement/reservation Qualified organized groups can use the 120-person area from April to October. A restroom with flush toilets, but no showers, is available. To reserve a group tent campsite, call 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), Monday to Saturday, 7:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. except on the Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day holidays.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Cedar Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Cedar Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Cedar Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Cedar Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Cedar Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Cedar Campground

    7. Old Cedar Campground

    11 Reviews
    24 Photos
    40 Saves
    Monroeville, New Jersey
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $31 - $50 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground

    9. Parvin State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    43 Photos
    73 Saves
    Rosenhayn, New Jersey
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Four Seasons Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Seasons Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Seasons Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Seasons Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Seasons Family Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Four Seasons Family Campground

    10. Four Seasons Family Campground

    8 Reviews
    12 Photos
    42 Saves
    Pilesgrove, New Jersey

    Four Seasons Campground is open all year, located in the Delaware River Region of Southern New Jersey. Featuring large open or wooded sites, our park easily accommodates big rigs and offers plenty of activities, located only 30 miles from Philadelphia and 50 miles from Atlantic City.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $50 - $150 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 126 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Chester

Recent Reviews in Chester

814 Reviews of 126 Chester Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Swamp Park
    Nov. 15, 2024

    Turkey Swamp Park

    10/10

    Turkey Swamp is a great spot, a lot of different things to do. Fishing, Tent Camp, Van Camping, Open Field, BBQ, Kayaking, Canoeing. The list goes on. I’ve been here a few times, every time I’m here I barely touch my phone.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Towhee County Park
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Lake Towhee County Park

    Basic camping in a county park

    Small (13-site) Bucks County Pennsylvania campground. The entrance and loop road, along with the campsites are all gravel. Some sites appeared to be more defined than others. Each site had a picnic table, fire ring, and garbage can. No hookups. 

    The restrooms were dated and passable; I did not use the shower. 

    The lake is separate from the campground and there did not appear to be defined access from the campground to the lake, although there was a sort of path from site 13 that I followed as far as I could. While I could see the lake from this path, there did not seem to be any way to get into the lake (and there was a lot of algae and water lilies). We checked out the lake the next day. There is a (dirt) boat ramp but there was a red flag warning, and the lake had a lot of algae bloom. 

    This campground did not appear to be a very popular one; on the Thursday before Memorial Day, only two sites were occupied, and I only saw a few reservation tags for the upcoming holiday weekend. It felt a bit neglected, but it was very quiet. If you are looking for a small, uncrowded campground with no amenities, this would be a good choice, but we were just passing through.

  • Renee P.
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Nov. 1, 2024

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Beautiful place

    First time camper, and I'm glad this is the site I started at. Bathrooms are very clean. They have showers as well, but I didn't get to use one. Very quiet, and you get to see a bit of wildlife scattered around. They do not sell would at the sites, so you'd have to go out of your way to get them. Bring cash cause some locals don't accept cc/dc. Also, if you're tent camping, make sure you pick a place that's not too rocky. My site was A 24 and it was mostly rocks. Otherwise, I will be coming back very room!

  • Frank J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Parvin State Park Campground
    Oct. 21, 2024

    Parvin State Park Campground

    Good size camp sites

    Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing. Most of the showers were out of order. The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water. I stayed at Site#8 in a travel trailer. Site was level and easy in and out. Large site off the main road to other sites. Nice hiking trails. Staff very nice. The dump station is sometimes secured has a combination lock. Ask for the combination during check-in. Note: Some sites are right next to hiking trails. If you want privacy, don't choose them.

    Verizon cell service was between 1 and 2 bars.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Lazy-K Campground
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Lazy-K Campground

    A concentration camp

    Worst campsite ever. The owner is constantly in you business. Got accused of speeding all the time. With no proof of speed, idling is speeding... They also do not allow work/repairs on camper or vehicle. Including just checking your oil. Or adding Def fluid which my truck requires to pull my camper. Nothing for the family to do. Laundry room closed due to poor maintenance. Was told if I complain any more I would be kicked out, without a refund. Don't worry I will never go there again. Avoid at all cost.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Quakerwoods Campground
    Oct. 1, 2024

    Quakerwoods Campground

    Quaint Bucks County Camping Outpost

    If you find yourself careening around the picturesque country roads here in Bucks County you will discover Quakerwoods Campground (named of course after the previous tri-cornered hat-donning Quaker residents who settled this vast rich farmland a few hundred years ago) nestled in the verdant, rolling hills of a plush countryside punctuated by massive rolled bays of hay in the surrounding fields, covered wooden bridges and the occasional quaint New England well-preserved charming towns that you will encounter. So, if you have camping on your mind, finding a place like Quakerwoods Campground is quite the find, as it will place you squarely in the heart of one of the most picturesque natural landscapes here in the Keystone State.

    As for the campground, which is just off Exit 44 of PA Turnpike or Exit 60 & 60A off of I78, you’ll encounter a destination offering up 170 mostly back-in slots with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) for RVs ranging between $55-$49 in the midst of a fairly decent wooded surrounding, although less so on the interior of the campground and moreso on its perimeter. There’s about 18 tent sites ranging between $40-$45 that  feature 15 amp electric and running water. All RV and tent sites are relatively flat and include a standard-issued picnic table and in-ground fold-up fire ring. Don’t have an RV, 5th Wheeler or Tent? Not a problem, as the good folks here at Quakerwoods will rent you one of their 4-6 person campers for $120/ night.

    The amenities here at Quakerwoods Campground are plenty, inclusive of: 4 Pristine restroom& shower facilities, Wi-Fi service, Free wagon rides(every Saturday), Camp store, Fishing pond, Adult& kid swimming pools, Walking paths, Fishing pond, Game room, Family bingo, Mini golf, Baseball field, Horseshoe pits, Kids Playgrounds, RC track, Front& Back pavilions, Sand Volleyball court, Cornhole, Basketball court, Designated dump stations, water stations, Bonfires, 2 Shuffleboard courts, Ice for sale, Propane refueling station, Laundry-O-Mat, Themed weekends and Pet friendly.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) As a tent camper, I was impressed by how Quakerwoods segregates mi tent pitchin’ bredren from the rest of the folks who bring their homes with them on wheels, placing tent sites across the other side of a small creek on the southwestern periphery near the fishing pond; (2) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or from the confines of your onboard mini-fridge, while there’s not a ton of restaurants around these parts, there are a few and they are pretty amazing, including favorites Brick Tavern Inn and The West End, McCoole’s @ The Historic Red Lion Inn and Sage Alley Brewery; (3) In the event that you need to replenish any of your supplies, rest assured as in nearby Quakertown, there’s a Giant & Aldi’s grocery store as well as a local Target, Walmart, TJMaxx, Kohl’s and Link Beverages to stock up on the 21+ liquid refreshment; and (4) Should you be towing your canoe or kayak with you and are eager to get the beak of your waterbird wet, then head on over due east of Quakertown Campground to Nockamixon SP where there’s a sizeable, yet skinny lake just begging for you to navigate it and get some good, hard oaring in.

    Happy Camping!

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodlands Camping Resort
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Woodlands Camping Resort

    No frills, but OK

    Staying in the overnight section was just OK. Only 4 50 amp spots, luckily we secured one. No sewer hookup, but there is a dump station in the seasonal/ permanent section. The campground is gated and that is nice, because the surrounding area is not great. *Highlight- super fun restaurant very nearby, great food, live music, on the Elk river. Restaurant is Unwind on the Water.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville
    Sep. 16, 2024

    Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville

    It’s a Kid’s Campground

    Granted it’s a Yogi Bear campground, so the kids were expected. However, adults carrying on well beyond the 11pm quiet time, outrageously loud hay rides well past 9pm on Friday, combined with a ton of golf carts and under age drivers it’s unanimous, we won’t be back.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    Peaceful New Jersey

    I arrived on a Tuesday a few days after they closed the pool, and by Wednesday I had the whole row of tent sites to myself. Maybe that's why it was so peaceful, but every night after my cacophonous conference in Philadelphia, I couldn't wait to turn down Timberlane Road and see that little KOA sign glowing in the darkness. 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, you will find wonderful native plants like blueberry, viburnum, clethra, and meadow beauty.

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Sep. 2, 2024

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Excellent State Park campground

    We stayed in loop C that allows pets. Very spacious sites. The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area.

  • Nicole S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wading Pines Camping Resort
    Aug. 31, 2024

    Wading Pines Camping Resort

    Close to home Campground

    The campground is very close to home, and a lot of people around our area (central jersey) go there yearly or have seasonal sites there, but for us, it was our first time at the campground. The campground was full of plenty of amenities like basketball, volleyball, cornhole, playground, pool, crafts, bands, a lake, and fishing. The place was clean, and there was no garbage around.

    The positives were there were plenty of things to do and they also have this great river that goes through the place so you can walk and throw your tube in and float to the other side of the park 30 mins later get out and do it again. They campground will also bring you up the river further and drop you off on a canoe trip. There is an added cost for rental. I like that they allow you to bring your own golf cart and/ or electric scooters or bikes. They had an old school playground which was better then any new one out there. The store was fully stocked with anything you could possibly want or need. They had a band which played Saturday night and people lined up golfcarts from all over and just lived for this concert.

    The negatives are for me campgrounds spots were right on top of one another but they were big spots they dont have tons of trees or shade which. They did have many seasonal sites, which sometimes turns me off and can make the place look a little trashy. The other negative was that the pool was freezing because they would pump water out every night. Someone told us there was an issue with the chemicals, and the pool looked greener every day. The bathrooms by the pool were older and always dirty.

  • Cynthia K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Swamp Park
    Aug. 30, 2024

    Turkey Swamp Park

    My favorite!

       We stayed in New Jersey for our 5th campground on the East Coast: Turkey Swamp Park in Freehold. This is a County park.

     Near some Revolutionary War battlefields.

     I really liked this park! They have 2283 acres. A 17 acre lake. Some hiking trails & a nice campground! The sites are all pullthrough. There's lots of vegetation for "privacy". We had a site on the perimeter, which are forest views. Only problem is none of the roads are paved. All are packed sand. We could tell it rained recently because of the muddy tracks. Fortunately it didn't rain while we were there!

      Shower/bathrooms are clean, but dated. They're checked regularly. The bath house is for the entire campground. 3 out of the 4 women's were working. There's a shared dressing area. 

    There's a laundry that doesn't take quarters. EPay. 

    There's a nice playground in the campground.

     They have 3 cabins for rent, with forest views.

     The lake has fishing & boat rentals. No gas motors. There's no swimming at the lake. Cell service was fair.. No WiFi. 

    They have an archery range. 

        This was my favorite campground on our trip! I really enjoyed camping here! There's a rustic retro quality to the place. I adored the campsites & I didn't see any really bad ones.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Brendan Byrne State Forest
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Brendan Byrne State Forest

    Nice spot in the pines

    We stayed on a mon/tues at the end of August and the campground was fairly empty and quiet except for a few generators running & air planes/ helicopters going over. There is an air force base in the area.

    Site 33 is the back corner so we did get a bit more traffic going past to get on the sand trails. There is also background noise from the road, but not too loud. There are not many RV sites in the 3 loops - just a handful which is a shame because many of the sites marked as tent only look like they could easily accommodate most RVs, especially smaller rigs.

    The dump station is locked so get the combo from the office if you want to use it. The ranger station is a bit of a drive from the camping area so if you don’t have cell service make sure you get it at check in.

    Go down to the pond and check out the carnivorous plants- one of the most unique things in this area!

    Several choices for hiking, but it’s the pine barrens so it is flat and sandy and ticks can be overwhelming at some times of the year.

    Overall this is one of the nicer & quieter options for pine barrens camping

  • Ra F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

    OK, but camping gets a low rating.

    The park is lovely, but the camping facilities are subpar, primitive and lack any kind of privacy. I bike toured there. The only potable water was from a near-broken water fountain at the public rest rooms and no electrical connection to recharge electronics. There was also a fair amount of road noise at night. Bathhouse OK, but just basic. Tent spots are just lined up against one another facing a service road.

  • Drew H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tohickon Valley County Park
    Aug. 25, 2024

    Tohickon Valley County Park

    Great stay

    A beautiful spot with plenty of space, a fire pit with grill and a table. We came in late on a Saturday after it was dark and couldn’t figure out where it was, the location on the map is slightly wrong. To get directions google maps to Deer Woods Campground. We paid the ranger in the morning, he said they upped the price to $50 if you are from out of county so that was a bummer.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
    Aug. 21, 2024

    Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest

    Ok camp spot- nice if you can get lakefront

    We did 2 weekday nights with our dog and 19’ RV in Aug ‘24.

    The dog friendly sites are limited & not the sites with lake access. It will also cost an extra $5/night.

    Check in was confusing as it is across the street & closes promptly at 4pm. (Not at the recreation area where we pulled in first)

    Site 34 was close to the road with regular traffic noise & car headlights even shined in the camper at night. There is also a fair amount of plane traffic from a small local airport…and several other campers were running generators so it was not exactly quite camping.

    Bathrooms are the typical old nj state park set up- it does the job but it’s seen better days. Dump station works well with trash & recycling drop off next to it. The roads are soft sand and can get rough after a rain storm.

    If you are looking to kayak or canoe on the lake it has a ramp to drop in. That is the main attraction here & there is a beach on the other side of the lake.

    Overall- nothing too special It’s not a site I would return to unless we could get water front, but dogs are not allowed there - so we won’t be rushing back because of that & the proximity to the road .

  • Stephen S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    Persied Peak Watch

    I'd have stayed at a different site on different conditions, but they have a spot for just about anything, from what I could tell. Staff and grounds are awesome!

  • Jodi B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Tohickon Family Campground
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Its ok. Nothing special about it.

    We recently went camping with a tent there. Not tent friendly first night we slept on rocks second night we got moved to a spot which actually had some grass. Everything has weird hours. The cafe is only open on weekends and the store is only open from like 10:00 to 4:00 p.m. and that's it. The pool hours are good they're from 11:00 to 7:00. The bath houses are fine. It's just that there's nothing to do in the morning time nothing at all the lake that you want to call it or river it was all green like there's better campsites out there but this one isn't that bad If you're just staying for a night or two but just do not use a tent.

  • Paulina B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Gulch Resort Campground
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    Hidden Amish Country Gem

    This resort is a lot bigger than you would anticipate from the road/entryway. Tons of amenities for families including mini golf, an arcade, pools, fishing ponds, etc. Not to mention live music on the weekends! Some of the facilities are a bit worn down, but that didn’t stop us from having a great time.

  • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beacon Hill Camping
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Beacon Hill Camping

    Small, but nice quiet campground w/ good services

    Stayed 2 nights. Located w/in walking distance of small town of Intercourse, PA, with plenty of shopping and Amish crafts. Very friendly people. Inexpensive stay.

  • Inez W.
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek State Park Campground
    Jun. 24, 2024

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Unique campsites

    Staying in C loop and here are some tips. If you want starlink, stay toward the entrance of the loop for a good view of the sky. If you want to be away from everyone and don't need a site that has good accessibility, stay in C27. You park at the top of the site and walk your tent and gear down a small slope where you can set up your tent. A little further down is a large-ish area with a fire pit and table. You can't see the roady from there and it looks like a great place to get away from it all! 

    Other sites around C27 have similar set-ups but not so far off the road.

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from Quakerwoods Campground
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Quakerwoods Campground

    Very nice camp grounds

    Stayed for over a month .very nice and roomy camp site .very close to poconos (golfers)and Lehigh Valley Bethlehem pa.



Guide to Chester

Camping near Chester, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From family-friendly campgrounds to serene spots for RVers, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun. It's a great place to camp and enjoy downtime!"
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A camper shared, "Had a nice time camping for two nights. If you like small breweries, about 20 minutes away is Stewarts Brewpub."
  • Family Fun: Blue Rocks Family Campground is perfect for families. One reviewer said, "The playground was great. Lots of activities. Ice cream parlor was a bonus."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms at Elk Neck State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "The bathrooms are immaculate."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at French Creek State Park Campground. One camper remarked, "Very spacious sites. The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area."
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Campers with pets love the welcoming atmosphere at Lums Pond State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "Accessible and pet friendly. Great trails and great staff."

What you should know

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Elk Neck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper pointed out, "NO alcohol allowed."
  • Site Proximity: At Susquehanna State Park Campground, sites can be close together. One visitor said, "The sites are well kept and the tent pads are in great shape, but they are fairly small and some of them are right on top of each other."
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds, like Blue Rocks Family Campground, are only open from April to November. A camper noted, "This is our third trip here and we have a blast!!"

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Lake-In-Wood Campground, which has activities for all ages. One family shared, "The campground is very well maintained, and the staff is very nice."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out local attractions. A camper at Killens Pond State Park Campground mentioned, "They also had great trails if you enjoy running!"
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks handy can keep kids happy. One visitor at Turkey Swamp Park said, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals. No gas motors."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lums Pond State Park Campground noted, "Some engineering genius put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Lake-In-Wood Campground offer full hookups, which can be a big plus. One camper said, "The sites appeared to all be a very good size."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Check the forecast before you go. A visitor at Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest mentioned, "Many sites, including ours, experienced flooding."

Camping around Chester, Pennsylvania, provides a mix of outdoor fun and family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin, there's a spot for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions