RV parks near Chester Springs, Pennsylvania primarily operate from spring to late fall, with most closing between November and April. The area sits at approximately 650 feet elevation in Chester County's hilly terrain, offering cooler summer temperatures than nearby urban areas. Winter camping is limited as water systems are winterized and many facilities shut down when overnight temperatures consistently drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 4 miles from Chester Springs, Lake-In-Wood Campground offers a catch-and-release lake. "Nice fishing in the lake," notes Edward M., who appreciated the amenities despite being "in the middle of nowhere." The pond area includes waterfowl habitat with "a lot of duck families around," according to Jen R.
Golfing: Par 3 course at Thousand Trails Circle M provides an option for campers wanting to practice their swing. "There is a par 3 golf course, indoor pool, mini golf, basketball, and that is in the fall. They also do canoeing in the warmer months and will shuttle you," reports Norm F.
Day trips to Amish Country: Several campgrounds serve as bases for exploring Pennsylvania Dutch culture. "The surrounding dutch/Amish towns are cool - it was pretty cool to seemingly step back in time," writes Jill R. The rural landscape features "rolling hills in 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," according to Stuart K.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Multiple campers highlight this practical amenity as a standout feature. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "Clean bathhouses" received specific mention from Kathy L., while Tara N. noted their "super clean laundry room and bathrooms." Michael W. agreed, stating "clean bathhouses" as one of the things he consistently finds to like about the campground.
Swimming options: Both indoor and outdoor pools are available at several parks. At Appalachian Camping Resort, "The pool wasn't bad," according to Michael K., while Melissa Y. appreciated that "the pool was open until 10pm everyday." Many campgrounds maintain extended evening pool hours during summer months.
Weekend activities: Organized events are common at larger parks. "They had scheduled activities for kids and adults," noted Becca U. about Sun Valley Campground. Similarly, Melissa Y. described the extensive activities at Appalachian: "numerous activities set up all throughout the day and there was something for everyone...bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids, a dj Saturday night and a live band Sunday night."
What you should know
Traffic noise varies: Proximity to highways affects some campgrounds more than others. At Village Scene Park, Stuart K. noted it's "located smack dab in the middle of an otherwise sprawling suburban area" but is "incredibly quiet and far enough away from busy traffic." Contrast this with Kathy L.'s experience at Pinch Pond: "Main drawback is noise from road and shooting range nearby."
Site levelness challenges: Many campgrounds in the region feature uneven terrain. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, Stuart K. observed "you will have to contend with sloping land as this campground appears to be situated right on the side of a heavily wooded hill." Beth B. noted similar issues at Spring Gulch: "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice."
Internet availability: WiFi access is inconsistent and often costs extra. "WiFi is available at a cost" at both Circle M and Village Scene Park. At Thousand Trails Hershey, Yamileth K. mentioned, "If you want internet, you must by it online, it is not provided."
Tips for camping with families
Arcade options: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers entertainment during inclement weather. "Nice playground for the kids and a small arcade," mentions Jen R., adding there's "a tree house, double decker bus, among others" as unique rental accommodations.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds welcome dogs but have varying facilities. Stuart K. notes at Village Scene Park, "there's an empty lot right next to the area designated for RVers, so me thinks if you come bringing Fido, you'll have plenty of space for him/her/they to run around."
Mini golf availability: Several parks maintain courses with varying conditions. Beth B. mentions Spring Gulch's mini golf "was fun but need to be regreened…several holes needed maintenance." Meanwhile, Melissa Y. highlighted that Appalachian Camping Resort has "free mini golf. You can borrow golf clubs but you do have to buy balls."
Tips from RVers
Big rig considerations: Site selection is crucial for larger RVs. At Hershey Camping Resort, James G. notes "There are a few big rigs that can barely fit on a site" and warns "the sites are gravel and most are not level." Rick B. adds that "the campground itself is very tight, cramped, and hard to navigate. The sites are so small that many tow vehicles have to park partially on the narrow access roads making it difficult to get in and out of with a big rig."
Utility hookup challenges: Water pressure and connection heights can create issues. Nick E. observed at Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "Water pressure is pretty low and the sewer pipe is a little high but all around a really solid experience." Linda F. at Robin Hill noted an unusual setup: "our site had a big 'tank' that was used for sewer hookup instead of group connection as did all the sites around us."
Seasonal amenities access: Facility availability changes throughout the operating season. Yamileth K. explains, "we arrived too early for the pool to be open but they do have an indoor hot tub for those 16 years and older that is open."
