Cabin camping near Chester Heights, Pennsylvania offers year-round options within forested settings and alongside waterways. The region typically experiences humid summers with average temperatures reaching 85°F, while fall brings cooler conditions ideal for hiking with temperatures between 45-65°F. Most sites sit at elevations between 200-500 feet, creating moderate terrain that's accessible for campers of varying experience levels.
What to do
Fish for diverse species: French Creek State Park Campground features two distinct lakes stocked with northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, and muskellunge. A camper noted, "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored."
Visit historic attractions: Within a short drive of Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, you can explore local vineyards and historic sites. "Turkey Point Vineyard is nearby" and "Wilmington, Delaware; and a handful of local museums and gardens. Not too far from Philadelphia," according to a visitor. The Brandywine River area provides access to numerous cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
Explore water recreation: At Elk Neck State Park Campground, you can swim at designated beaches or launch watercraft. "There's a camp store, boat ramp, swimming, fishing and lots of great hiking. Definitely drive to, and then hike to the light house (open most weekends) the light house and the view are definitely worth it," reports one camper who enjoyed the park's diverse offerings.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At French Creek State Park Campground, campsites offer good separation from neighbors. "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," explains a regular visitor. This layout creates a more secluded camping experience even when the campground is busy.
River views: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers premium sites along the Brandywine River. "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites," shares a repeat visitor who appreciates the layout.
Peaceful surroundings: Old Cedar Campground provides a quieter alternative to resort-style campgrounds. "This is a small and basic campground, not a resort. No fancy amenities," notes a camper, while another mentions, "Quiet during the week - numerous seasonal campers." Many sites feature natural wooded settings that create a tranquil atmosphere.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers peaceful camping during non-peak seasons. "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."
Site selection matters: Campgrounds near Chester Heights vary significantly in site layout and accessibility. At French Creek State Park, "Loop A [has] very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C." Pay attention to site descriptions when booking to match your preferences.
Water hookup planning: When staying at Old Cedar Campground, prepare for shared water connections. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises a recent visitor who had to adapt to this setup.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers organized events throughout your stay. "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget. The place is so clean including the bathrooms. Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids," reports a family who enjoyed the structured programming.
Playgrounds and recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Old Cedar Campground, "My grandchildren loved visiting us, pool was clean - they had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great - playground was adequate. Mini golf was fun for all. There was also activities for the younger kids - making slime." These amenities keep children entertained throughout your stay.
Swimming options: When cabin camping with families in summer months, select sites with water recreation. At Elk Neck State Park Campground, you'll find "a great walking trail to an awesome lighthouse that overlooks the Chesapeake Bay" plus swimming areas. Most campgrounds with pools operate them from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: When reserving cabins or RV sites, ask about terrain. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, one visitor warned, "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road." This information helps avoid damage during setup.
Winter access: Some campgrounds remain open year-round with limited amenities. "Finished the season at [Elk Neck State Park] in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," notes a late-season camper, making it viable for cold-weather cabin stays when many other facilities close.
Site privacy options: When selecting between cabins and RV sites, consider surrounding vegetation. At Four Seasons Family Campground, sites vary greatly in privacy level. "Open sites not many with privacy although they did have a few premium sites with a paver patio with Adirondack chairs, a nice table with four chairs and built in fire pit!" These premium options provide more separation from neighbors.