Camping cabins near Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania include rustic to modern options within a 35-mile radius. This region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F, making May through October the prime cabin camping period. Winter stays remain possible at select locations, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails: At Elk Neck State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple trail systems including the Beaver Marsh Trail. "We enjoyed hiking the Beaver Marsh Trail. From our campsite we had to drive to a trail head but there were a few sights that had direct access," notes one visitor. The park also features the Turkey Point Lighthouse trail, which requires "about a five minute drive to get to the trail though, but is worth it!"
Fishing options: Boulder Woods Campground offers a stocked fishing pond for guests. The camp store sells fishing supplies for those who forget equipment. As one visitor explains, "If you don't want to hang around the campground there are a few attractions nearby. There is the Reading and Berks County Visitors Bureau and Chester County Visitors Bureau, State Game Lands 43, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center."
Water activities: Paddling opportunities exist at several locations. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA provides canoe rentals directly on the Brandywine River. "This was the first KOA we visited and I can't begin to say enough wonderful things about the whole campground. The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views," shares one camper. "Nearby are great places to go hiking as well as a canoe and rafting outfit. We choose to do both on this trip and weren't disappointed with either."
What campers like
Private sites: French Creek State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots with natural barriers between sites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports one visitor. Another camper adds, "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."
Modern cabins: New cabin options at Spring Gulch Resort Campground provide comfortable accommodations with full amenities. One guest explains, "Most of the campsite options are fairly level, but are very rocky, so this is something to keep in mind if you are tent camping. Some of the cabins were recently added and are super clean inside. The one we stayed in had a set of bunk beds, a queen bed, and a fold out couch. It also had a bathroom with shower/tub and everything you would need except linens."
Scenic views: Lancaster-New Holland KOA offers panoramic vistas of Amish countryside. "We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site#25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept," reports a visitor. Another notes, "Great KOA in all aspects: location, views, friendly, cleanliness." The campground features "Beautiful valley views of Amish country," making it popular for those seeking a peaceful setting.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabins throughout the region require advance booking, particularly during peak seasons. "This state park is close to Philly but has some wonderful tent sites. There are also cabins and yurts but they aren't dog friendly," notes a visitor about Evansburg State Park Campground. The park can be very busy during summer months, so booking well ahead is essential for cabin stays.
Off-season considerations: Many facilities operate seasonally with reduced services in colder months. "Finished the season at this 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," reports an Elk Neck State Park visitor. Winter cabin campers should verify which amenities remain available during their stay.
Supply availability: Most cabin locations have nearby towns for groceries and supplies. "There is a camp store on site that sells general campground supplies (fire starter, hot dogs, band aids)," notes one Elk Neck visitor. At Boulder Woods Campground, "The general store had everything plus, and very reasonably priced." Firewood typically costs $5-7 per bundle at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers multiple play areas for children of different ages. "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground (September 2020). There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages. They also have pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool," shares a visitor. The campground's recreational facilities make it suitable for families with varying age ranges.
Activity options: French Creek State Park provides structured programming during summer months. "They have so much to do for kids!! There appears to be a pool but it is not in use during our time there in October, although the kids have been able to enjoy a hayride and the Halloween decor that some of the seasonal campers display," explains a reviewer. Another camper mentions seeing "a very good band performing in the campground."
Swimming facilities: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during warm months. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," notes a French Creek visitor. Quakerwoods Campground has "a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA provides RV sites with varying levels of privacy. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. The park is clean, quiet, full of families. The staff are friendly and welcoming. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily," reports one RVer. Another mentions, "The showers were clean with some nice hot water but very small and difficult to change in."
Hookup availability: French Creek State Park offers electric sites but limited full hookup options. A camper notes, "We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water." Knowing the hookup limitations helps RVers prepare appropriately for their stay.
Parking challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads or challenging sites. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "The river sites are great but can get muddy and there is a big hill to get up and out." Another visitor mentions having "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."
