The Chester Heights region offers camping opportunities between the Delaware Valley lowlands and Piedmont hills, with elevations ranging from 180-340 feet above sea level. RV sites near Chester Heights provide access to Pennsylvania's mixed oak and hickory forests while being close to urban amenities. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through November, closing during winter's coldest months.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: Lake-In-Wood Campground features a large pond stocked for fishing where families gather. "There is a pond for swimming and there were dead fish," notes one visitor about seasonal conditions at nearby Spring Gulch, highlighting the need to check water conditions before planning water activities.
Mini golf courses: Several campgrounds offer mini golf, though maintenance varies by season. "Miniature golf course could use some upkeep as there was trash strewn throughout the course," reports a Spring Gulch visitor, while another camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground mentioned they enjoyed the course despite some needed maintenance.
Nature trails: The terrain around RV parks near Chester Heights includes wooded areas perfect for hiking. "There are a bunch of walking paths that lead from the camp so you have ample places to walk," mentions a Mays Landing Resort visitor, noting the accessibility of trails directly from campsite areas.
What campers like
Heated pools: Multiple RV sites near Chester Heights feature pool complexes that extend the swimming season. "Heated spa/pool in upper area are a bonus," notes a camper at Spring Gulch Resort Campground, appreciating the amenity during cooler months when outdoor pools are typically closed.
Weekend entertainment: Live events create social atmosphere at many campgrounds. "They had a live band one evening. Activities though the day were fun," shared a visitor at Spring Gulch, while another mentioned "Saturday night bands are concert worthy" at Sun Valley Campground.
Sports equipment access: Recreational gear is often available at no extra cost. "Lots of sports gear available for free to use within park, has to be returned by 5 when main office closes," explained a Spring Gulch visitor, noting the time constraints on equipment borrowing.
What you should know
Site conditions vary significantly: Terrain can be challenging at many campgrounds. "The tent loop is surrounded by water on 3 sides. There is no safety fence. The water is mostly standing water so expect mosquitoes," warns a Mays Landing Resort visitor, emphasizing the importance of site selection for those with young children.
Seasonal closures: Most RV parks operate April through November. Sun Valley Campground runs "April 1 to November 1," while Spring Gulch Resort has a slightly longer season from "March 21 - December 1," giving campers additional weeks in early spring and late fall.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds experience water problems. "The water stank and was straight brown," reported one camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, highlighting the need to bring drinking water during certain times of year.
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions for activities: Height requirements limit some amenities for smaller children. "The pool and splash pad were great but you needed to be at least 42 inches to go on the slide or bounce house," notes a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, important information for families with toddlers.
Schedule around staffing limitations: Pool hours may be restricted during weekdays. "Staff was nice but not enough staffing to keep amenities like pool open after 5 during the week," shared a Spring Gulch visitor, suggesting families should plan daytime water activities.
Consider cabin options: For easier family camping, cabins provide comfort with minimal setup. "Some cabins, like those in my photos, are brand new and have everything you would need to set up house minus linens, towels, toilet paper, paper goods and toiletries," explains a Spring Gulch visitor.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for uneven sites: Leveling equipment is essential at most campgrounds. "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice," mentions a Sun Valley Campground camper, highlighting the tradeoff between convenience and site condition.
Navigate tight interior roads: Many RV sites near Chester Heights have challenging access. "The roads were very tight and you really had to watch how you drove through because of the trees," warns a Lake-In-Wood visitor, suggesting larger rigs may require careful maneuvering.
Check site surface materials: Gravel sites can become problematic in heavy rain. "Our site was gravel with a small concrete patio and decently sized. All hookups worked as required so no complaints there," reported a camper at Thousand Trails Circle M, but another noted that during storms "it still made a swamp" despite the gravel base.
