Looking for the best options for camping with dogs near Chester Springs? The Dyrt can help you find the best campsites for you and your dog. Search nearby pet-friendly campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
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.
$23 / night
Lake In Wood Camping Resort is “home to the gnomes” because it is a friendly place, built to suit the lifestyles of today’s campers (even the knee-high ones). From a weekend in your tent to a beautiful cabin rental, this resort becomes a treasured “Home Away from Home!” The resort features a magnificent entertainment hall with a beautifully restored pipe organ for hosting grand parties and resort gatherings. Other pavilions are available for smaller groups (the Gnome Bridge Club are regulars). Adults can enjoy the picturesque views and intimate setting of the lake-view terrace.
$40 - $60 / night
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.
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.
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.
$21 - $55 / night
Spring Gulch Campground and RV Resort is not just a campground—it's a full-amenity outdoor lifestyle RV experience nestled on 115 acres in the Amish Farmlands and Welsh Mountains of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Our RV park in Pennsylvania Dutch Country provides a relaxing and exciting RV vacation complete with activities and themed weekends for all ages, information provided for historic tours & sightseeing, bicycling through the scenic Amish Farmlands, and full facilities designed for your enjoyment and convenience. Spring Gulch RV Resort offers lots of water fun with two Olympic-size heated swimming pools, a stocked fishing lake, and a spring-fed lake with a white sandy beach where children build sandcastles. At this RV park in Pennsylvania Dutch Country , some visitors stay for a week's vacation, some for a weekend break, and others enjoy our consecutive weekend package or remain on a premier seasonal site. One thing is certainyou'll return year after year to Spring Gulch RV Resort! RV park in Pennsylvania Dutch Country with an outdoor lifestyle Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Spring Gulch RV Campground. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
In the heart of the Eastern Pennsylvania wilderness, there’s an exciting escape for RVers, campers, and hikers of all ages. Blue Rocks Family Campground occupies over 100 acres of beautiful forest divided by mountain streams and is surrounded by miles of hiking trails that offer incredible views of the Pennsylvania countryside. Topped off with our breathtaking Blue Rocks boulder field that gives our camp its name, Blue Rocks Family Campground is truly the definition of an amazing outdoor Pennsylvania experience. We can’t wait to see ya!
The campground is open Friday and Saturday nights only. Two camping units are permitted at each site, one unit must be a tent. Sleeping in personal vehicles is not permitted.
$15 - $50 / night
Located on 63 lush, wooded acres that adjoin a scenic, 100-acre county park in Southern Lancaster, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort in Quarryville, Pennsylvania offers a breathtaking camping experience the whole family will enjoy! When our campers aren’t busy swimming and splashing at Yogi Bear’s Water Zone or bouncing high on our jumping pillows, they can enjoy endless outdoor attractions that will keep everyone busy from dawn ’till dusk. Just a short drive to any of the Amish Country and Hershey area attractions, Jellystone Park™ is the perfect spot to start making camping memories that will last a lifetime!
Guide
My family and I stayed at French Creek State Park while attending an event in Reading. The park was clean and well maintained. We stayed in Loop A which had no camp host. The camp hosts were in loops B & C. We had a full hook up site. The water and electric worked great! The campground was well patrolled by Rangers throughout our stay. The bathhouses appeared to be clean and maintained. The quiet time starts at 9pm and seemed to be followed by most campers. There are numerous hiking trails in the park that seemed to be well marked and maintained. The park is about 20- mins from Reading, and 10 mins from Birdsbroro. There are many stores and restaurants in the area for food and supplies if needed. We had good cellular service with both AT&T and T-Mobile. The one downside was that there was no off leash dog park. We had to take our dog to a dog park in Birdsbroro. We would stay at this park again.
Ranger
We stayed here for a night in transit. Beautiful campground — lots of trees, pond, kids play equipment, dog park, etc. facilities all clean and whole place is well maintained. Easy late arrival. Good location - convenient but far enough off the highway. Would stay here again.
Traveler
Campground sites are nice and spacious, bathrooms are good, and there’s plenty to do for everyone. We hiked the 7.5mile lake trail with our two pups. It was beautiful and along the way there were opportunities to kayak/sup, beach it, or even play on a ropes course. We always travel with our dogs and this place has the BEST dog park. Big open space with access to lots of water play. We definitely recommend this spot!
GuideWe do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations.
Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer. There are some equestrian and tent sites as well.
Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking. There’s an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp. Book early because it fills up fast!
Guide
We stayed here for 3 nights and thought well of the park. The place was meticulously clean and the permanent campers keep their sites so well. The pool was warm, clean and enjoyable. There’s a nice playground and a GaGa pit. There’s lots of space to walk your dog on leash but no dog park. We had an issue with our surge protector and the manager had an electrician out to us quickly who helped us solve a problem. Pleasant staff in the camp store. The laundry area and shower rooms are beautiful and clean.
There is nothing to do in the immediate area, but we were there to use the bike trails and bop around Jim Thorpe…about 25 minutes away via pretty country roads.
Guide
well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in! It also has a greag picnic area with grills.
TravelerWe stayed at site 18 in Loop A. There is a connector trail nearby that can get you to most of the hiking trails. Site was nice. Bathrooms okay. This is a pet loop so be aware of dogs. Hiking trails in park were a nice challenge.
Ranger
Great no frills place to relax. No activities and not much open for touristy stuff due to Covid 19. But the daily views of fields, farmers plowing with horses or the buggys going by was great. The road seems highly traveled surring weekdays so I would suggest a site far from it. Pull throughs offer the best views. Some buddy sites also available in pull through area. Small dog park, too small for our two labs.
We were in site 50 for this trip, however if you have a decent sized rig I would steer clear of this row. The road for this row is narrow and there is a fence that makes backing in more difficult, especially for a 30+ ft travel trailer. The photo I included with the line of trees is a wider road, there is no fence and the sites are angled better for easy back in.
LegendThis is unquestionably the best KOA I’ve been to. I usually do not like KOA, except when there are no alternatives. This one is way above average. Typically these places are all gravel and dust. This one has paved roads, grass and trees. There is a pond for fishing, too. The only complaint is that, like all KOAs, the sites are on top of each other. The neighbor’s sewer connection is right next to our picnic table! But, the sites are large enough for large RVs, they have 30/50 amp hookups and water & sewer. There are cabins and large tents you can rent. There is a playground, pavilion, laundry, and several shower/bathrooms. (The one near us didn’t have hot water. The office people said they were working on it.) There us also a large, grassy, fenced dog park which my 2 spaniels appreciated.
Ranger
We stayed here because it was one of the closer campgrounds to a concert we were going to. Honestly, because of that, we weren't focused on doing much in the campground and it was 100 degrees that weekend so we spent most of the time in the trailer with the air conditioner. I will say, the site we were in wasn't very well marked. The dog park was large, but no shade at all which is a big deal in the heat. The bathrooms were horrible. My daughter and I were practically scalded when we tried to shower. Actually had to go down to the office and complain about it. They immediately came back and adjusted the water heater, but that only made a small difference. Overall, I would stay again if I needed to be in that area for some reason, but I wouldn't go for a vacation.
GuideI was able to book my site the day before the trip. The site itself was set back some, and felt secluded while still being near the parking area.
Walk to bathrooms and camp store was on the longer side. Firewood was $5 a bundle, but the register wasn't working and they could only take cash.
The hiking in the immediate area was beautiful, lots of fun trails and wildlife. Fishing, kayaking, zip lining, tons of great activities.
The firepits have grates over one half, so campfire cooking is a breeze. Cook up and use the provided picnic table for an easy dinner set up.
The park itself is very dog friendly and most sites had dogs. There is also an off leash dog park at Lum's pond and dog water dishes outside the camp store.
The showers and bathrooms were incredibly well kept with hot water and stocked supplies. If you didn't feel like walking so far, the tents had a spiget with running water near the parking areas.
Reception for Verizon was spotty, t mobile was pretty great. Wish there was an ATM on site though I don't think the cash only situation is a normal one for this campground.
All in all an amazing trip, and I'll be back as soon as possible.
Guide
My family and I stayed at Lake In Wood for 4 days. The campground is very well maintained , and the staff is very nice. There is a kiddie pool , as well as an indroor/outdor pool.The sites appeared to all be a very good size. Even though the campground has a Gnome theme, there are plenty of things to do for all ages. The Gnome Cafe on site served great food as well. This cafe also has classic arcade games and pinball. The camp store was well stocked also. There is a spacious dog park as well. AT&T cell service was good, but Verizon cell service was not. The campground wifi was decent depending onthe time of day. This campground also has many interesting theme cabins. We saw a caboose, teepee, and a yurt. I do not know if there are others. Overall I think that this is the best campground that my family and I have ever visitied. We will definitely be back.
Guide
We stayed overnight here on our way north. We had no expectations for this KOA. However the drive jn set the stage. It was a long winding road through the forest with a creek running below the road. Utterly magical. Had to park to check in and were led to our site. Our campsite was alongside the creek. Meaning, we should have parallel parked our RV but didn't realize that until after out second attempt to backing which is what the guy told us that drove us to the site. We parked at an angle and decided were done. Regardless, the location was more beautiful than we could have asked for. The creek had small fish and was running slowly. We saw a few people "walking the creek" which ran the length of the campground. There were signs for panning in the creek which a few kids were doing. I was happy to find a hiking trail. Although only .32 miles one-way, it was a winding steep climb to the top of large hill. Wear hiking shoes and have hiking poles to control your descent. Movies and recreational equipment can be borrowed. The campground had lots of trees. Pads were combination of gravel & dirt. Forgot to add they have a large fenced dog park with apparatus in it. Even though we don't have a dog, this play area looked great. We will definatley stop there again. We highly recommend it.
Guide
Accessible and pet friendly. Great trails and great staff
ScoutI had to camp the pet loop because I brought the dog, and was completely filled up. My site #16 was far from the best site it was small and rocky and I couldn't switch because they were full. The restrooms and showers were clean. After exploration I found those really nice sites and marked them on my map for next time. French Creek is popular with the locals and can fill up on any weekend as was the case for me. Very nice place and I will have a better site next time.
Scout
Great campground in the woods. The managers were very helpful and friendly! Pet friendly!
GuideThere was a lot to do in French Creek. We rented a boat, did some hiking, & attended events in the amphitheater. They are also really pet friendly, our dog was even allowed on the boat with us. The only thing I would change is our choice of lot. It was a last-minute reservation so we took which ever lot was available to us. they did have other spacious slots but they were all taken at that point. Although the restrooms were a bit dirty, they were cleaner than other campsites I have been to.
GuideWe 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.
Traveler
We loved our time staying creek-side here in the summer. The creek is gorgeous and crystal-clear in places. Decent facilities and market. Pet friendly and very lush with greenery.
Scout
Very well kept camp ground. The Prime Sites are very spacious. Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice.
Guide
Lake with swing and fishing and two pools. No pets no alcohol no store but they have a snack stand. Make sure to get an end campsite or your table will be by the sanitary dump. Large sights kids had fun.
Legend
West Chester KOA This is a really nice KOA not too far from downtown Philly. The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy. A bridge nearby the campground was washed out earlier by a hurricane so we had to take an alternative route going about thirty minutes out of our way. (Make sure you check their website for directions!) There is a lot to do in the surrounding area like visiting the historical sites in downtown Philadelphia, Valley Forge, or exploring Amish country.
This is a typical KOA with lots of amenities and activities for kids– swimming pool, jump pad, miniature golf, volleyball, butterfly garden, gem mining, playground, store, dog park, nature trail, etc. There is a large pool area with pavilion but it was closed during our stay since we were there early in the season. The campground is right on the Brandywine River which is a slow meandering pretty river that is great to get your feet wet or go for a paddle. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent if you have time and as there is very little current in the river you can paddle out and back without any trouble. There is a nice, short nature trail which was nice to walk our dog and she enjoyed getting wet in the river.
The campground is hilly which means that a fair number of sites are not level. Our site (#27) was level for our RV but the patio sloped downhill and we could not use our picnic table or find a level spot for our chairs. Some sites are “premiums” with paved patios, Adirondack chairs, fancy firepits, BBQ grill, and tables and chairs with an umbrella. These sites are really nice, but you pay a lot more for them. Some sites are located adjacent to the river with nice waterfront views, but beware some might be muddy. There are lots of camping cabins and a couple of glamping tents.
Overall, the campground is very clean with no trash lying around and the grass was mowed and trimmed. The 50-amp electric was good as was the water pressure. The sewer connection uphill from our site so it did not drain properly. There is basic cable but since you are so close to Philly there are plenty of over-the-air channels. The Wi-Fi at our site worked well. Garbage is picked up at your site. The surrounding area has plenty of restaurants, shopping, and interesting things to see and do.
Traveler
Starlite offers a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area, toilets, indoor shower stalls, daily activities, pets permitted, water/electric utilities and laundry units. Staff was very friendly! Loved the cleanliness and atmosphere as well!
TravelerSpent a great extended weekend on in the park. Did some fishing and received good tips from the locals.
The park ranger staff was great and informed us that there was a junior ranger program for kids. We had done a jr. program in national parks and was a great way for us to lean about the area and it’s wildlife as a family.
My kids were excited to earn badges and certificates when they finished. The pet friendly loop was great for our dog and had full hookup sites in that loop for those that need it.
If you have time there are plenty of places for hiking in the park or just outside. We enjoyed a nice leisurely hike at Crows Nest Preserve that went through beautiful PA farmland.
Guide
No electrical and no pets allowed in camp sites. But plenty of trees and huge fire rings in each spot. An RV would have a tough time but for car camping it’s great. The Delaware Canal is nearby with the tow path for biking. That makes this a nice Bikepacking stop.
Scout
Have been visiting Washington Crossing State Park since I was a child. I always look forward to going because it is consistently clean, great for riding bikes and taking pets for a walk and children for a stroll PLUS it is significant historically and it is enjoyable for the entire family. There are some fun, tasty custard stands nearby for a summer treat.
LegendThis PA state park felt, upon first impression, very tightly spaced and had an overall crowded feel in loop C, the only dog friendly electric loop. The sites that aren’t ADA have more space between them than we did. Our site C41 was full hookup as are several others (1-7, 39-47). This is an ADA site, there are several of them. Perhaps this is why it’s crowded so they could fit extra ADA sites? They are very level and have paved pads, but also a paved picnic pad, and paved fire ring pad. Non ADA full hookup sites appeared to be the nicest though they were narrow and some weren’t level side to side. There were a lot of rocks embedded in the ground around and on many sites. Non ADA sites have only a paved pad for the RV. The picnic table and fire ring were behind our RV and when sitting at them, we were within view of sites 37, 39, and 40. I felt like I was in a townhouse setting. Non ADA sites varied as to where picnic and fire rings were set. Also many sites looked like there was quite a drop off at the edge of the already narrow pad so that you had a big step down off your last RV step. Site C42 is ADA and is a nice, semi private, spacious site. Though I’d choose from sites #1-7 next time. ALL parking pads are 45’ long.
Loop B has a mix of electric and non electric but doesn’t allow pets. That loop was more spacious and had trees between some sites so it felt more private. The sites appeared level. There are Yurts and mini cabins outside Loop C that had lots of space around them. Loop A is a pet loop but no electric. However, it’s closed now for what appears to be renovations. Loop D is non electric, no pets.
The campground had no vacancy on this particular weekend. One car allowed per site and most had to park perpendicular. Sites were short (45’ long). 2nd cars are $5 a night but wouldn’t fit in most sites.
The day use areas have frisbee golf, boat rentals, fishing, hunting, hiking, and a pool that overlooks the lake. Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is adjacent to the park but was not fully open due to covid. It’s a large state park. The pool was nice looking but not open until Memorial Day. Boat rentals are available weekends in May and Sept. and daily all summer. These amenities were far from the campground and would require driving your car. Hiking trails were plentiful but most were labeled as “more difficult.” Horse back riding is allowed on some trails. I didn’t see any trails that started at the campground loops.
Overall, it’s an adequate campground but not my favorite.
Discovering pet-friendly camping options near Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, allows you to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry companions. Here are some excellent campgrounds that welcome pets and offer a variety of amenities and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Chester Springs, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Chester Springs, PA is French Creek State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 75 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 106 dog-friendly camping locations near Chester Springs, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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