French Creek State Park Campground offers spacious camping sites with level paved areas for easy setup across multiple loops. The park spans 7,526 acres across Chester and Berks counties, approximately 15 miles southeast of Reading. Loop C permits pets while others don't, and the park maintains multiple lakeside recreation areas with temperatures ranging from mid-30s in winter to upper 80s in summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: French Creek State Park Campground provides access to Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake where anglers can catch "northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish." Ice fishing is permitted when conditions allow as "the ice thickness is monitored."
Historical exploration: Located just minutes from the campground, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site offers a glimpse into America's industrial past. One camper noted that "there is a lot to do in the surrounding area like visiting the historical sites in downtown Philadelphia, Valley Forge, or exploring Amish country."
Horseback riding trails: Bring your own horses to enjoy the park's riding areas. "There is no horse-corral" and "no rentals available," so this activity is specifically for visitors who can transport their own horses.
Water activities: Both lakes permit non-motorized boating. A visitor mentioned, "We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely! There is also a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Hibernia County Park receives praise for its secluded camping experience. One camper described it as a "small, rustic, quiet woods" with sites that are "heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathhouses. At French Creek, one reviewer noted that "bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes." Similarly, at Lancaster-New Holland KOA, campers appreciate the "super clean bathrooms and friendly host."
Amish country views: Many campgrounds provide unique cultural experiences. A camper at Lancaster-New Holland KOA enjoyed the "gorgeous valley views of Amish country" and watching "farmers plowing with horses or the buggys going by."
Affordable primitive camping: Hibernia County Park offers basic camping at reasonable rates. A visitor mentioned, "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups." This makes it an economical option for tent campers wanting a simple outdoor experience.
What you should know
Varying hookup options: While some parks offer full amenities, others are more primitive. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites" that are "pretty much level," whereas at Hibernia County Park, "there are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV."
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. For French Creek, one camper advised, "Hibernia annually hosts the (super fun!) 'Old Fiddlers Picnic' the second weekend in August. This is the only weekend that you are REQUIRED to call in to reserve."
Alcohol policies: Rules vary by campground. French Creek State Park, being a state park, has "NO alcohol allowed" and "The Park Rangers drive by regularly." County parks may have similar restrictions while private campgrounds often permit alcohol.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability differ across locations. One camper at Hibernia County Park noted "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 of the loop."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville specializes in family camping with numerous activities. A visitor explained it's "all for the kids. This will be our second year going. So much to do for the kids. They have the pools and playgrounds and fishing."
Children's fishing pond: Some parks offer designated fishing areas for young anglers. At Hibernia County Park, a visitor mentioned the "great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground."
Budget-friendly options: For families watching expenses, consider camping at state or county parks. A camper noted about Hibernia County Park, "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12... The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
Unique accommodations: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers memorable lodging options beyond traditional camping. A reviewer shared that "there are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others. Nice playground for the kids and a small arcade."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When choosing an RV site near Coatesville, check for levelness and accessibility. At French Creek, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze" while at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, some sites present challenges: "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer this essential service. At Hibernia County Park, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home."
Water supply planning: Some campgrounds have limited water access. An experienced RVer advised about Hibernia County Park, "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the bathroom."
Premium site options: For those wanting upgraded experiences, Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers "premium sites with paver patios, Adirondack chairs, a nice table with four chairs and built-in fire pit." These sites provide additional comfort for RV camping.
