Tent camping sites near Chester Heights, Pennsylvania sit within the rolling Piedmont region of southeastern Pennsylvania, with elevations ranging from 200-500 feet above sea level. The region experiences moderate rainfall throughout camping season with average summer temperatures of 75-85°F during peak camping months. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with water access and ground conditions improving after spring rainy periods.
What to do
Bird watching at riverside camps: Tinicum Island offers secluded tent-only sites accessible solely by watercraft. "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft," notes Bobby S. from Tinicum Island, where campers can spot migrating raptors and various water birds.
Hiking historic trails: Ridley Creek State Park maintains well-marked trails that connect tent camping areas with creek exploration opportunities. "Beautiful area to hike. Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park," shares Andrea R. The park features multiple trail difficulty levels suitable for day hiking from camp.
Disc golf excursions: The Deep Creek Campground area at Green Lane Park offers tent camping with access to one of the region's better disc golf courses. Benjamin C. notes it has a "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing" making it a versatile recreation spot within 30 miles of Chester Heights.
What campers like
Forest immersion campsites: Hibernia County Park provides heavily wooded tent sites in its two loops. "Super great price at $15/night as well. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," mentions Anna, highlighting the value and natural setting that tent campers appreciate.
Horseback riding access: Nearby Evansburg State Park Campground incorporates trail systems compatible with horseback riding from tent sites. "Great park to do everything outdoorsy including, hiking, horseback riding, hunting and fishing," comments J K. from Evansburg, offering tent campers additional recreational options not commonly found at other Chester Heights area campsites.
Secluded primitive options: Blackbird State Forest Campground offers basic sites with no running water but excellent spacing between campsites. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" reports Sarah M., appreciating the privacy level uncommon in this region's public campgrounds.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: Most campgrounds near Chester Heights require advance reservations, particularly for weekend camping. Fort Washington State Park Campground accommodates only group camping by reservation. "There's at least two fire pits per camp ground. There's only group camping. They give you firewood—if you bring your own, leave with any left over," explains Kerri D.
Primitive toilet facilities: Many tent campgrounds maintain only basic sanitation facilities. At Hibernia County Park, "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance," Jennifer S. explains.
Residential restrictions exist: Some local campgrounds near Chester Heights maintain residency requirements. Alverthorpe Private Park limits camping to local residents. "Restricted to only residents. Looks nice, if you can actually stay here," reports Les R. after being turned away.
Tips for camping with families
First-timer friendly sites: Introductory tent camping opportunities exist for families near Chester Heights. At Ridley Creek State Park, "This place is great for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits," advises David K., making it suitable for families new to camping.
Children's fishing ponds: Hibernia County Park maintains specially stocked children's ponds separate from the main lake. "My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp," notes Anna about family amenities.
Playground proximity: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park offers tent camping with multiple playground facilities nearby. "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails," mentions Joe B., though families should note the minimal site separation for noise considerations.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most Chester Heights area tent campgrounds accommodate only small RVs or popup campers without hookups. At Hibernia County Park, "We mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel for the most part. There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV," warns Jennifer S., advising self-contained camping.
Site selection strategies: Tent camping sites that also accommodate RVs require careful selection. Jennifer S. notes about Hibernia, "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and 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."
Water access limitations: RV campers seeking tent sites near Chester Heights must prepare for minimal water access. At Hibernia, "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the bathroom," reports Jennifer S., highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
