The Coplay area sits at approximately 350 feet above sea level in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley, about 70 miles north of Philadelphia. The region features rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and proximity to the Lehigh River. Summer camping temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with moderate rainfall of 3-4 inches per month during peak season.
What to do
Hiking through scenic trails: At French Creek State Park Campground, campers can access multiple trail systems for all skill levels. "There are trails for walking, hiking or biking as well! There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat," notes Jen R.
Water activities on multiple lakes: French Creek offers two distinct lakes for recreation. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to reviewer Jen R.
Fishing opportunities: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides excellent fishing about 35 miles from Coplay. "Great for sailing and fishing," reports Mike D. The reservoir contains multiple fish species and allows shore fishing or boat access through dedicated launch areas.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Mountainview Campground, which is approximately 30 miles from Coplay, campers appreciate the spacious layout. "The campsites are spacious and the and facilities are clean," reports Emily. Another camper notes, "The property is well kept and campsites are a good distance from each other. Plenty of open field as well as wooded areas."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness at regional campgrounds. At Pickerel Point Campground, visitors note "beautiful new bathrooms" and appreciate the overall maintenance. One camper reports, "We had site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper. The trails were beautiful, recommend little falls trail. The bathrooms were clean with nice hot showers."
Waterfront camping options: Many campers value lakefront sites in the region. "Almost every campsite is close to the water. Our site had kayak access and that was a real bonus," shares Aida K. about Pickerel Point. Another reviewer adds, "We stayed in site 100 and amazing views of the water from our camper."
What you should know
No specialized equestrian facilities nearby: Horse owners seeking equestrian camping near Coplay must look further afield as most nearby campgrounds lack dedicated horse amenities. None of the reviewed campgrounds advertise horse corrals or specialized facilities.
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others offer first-come options. At Hibernia County Park, "Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."
Alcohol restrictions at state parks: Pennsylvania state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "This is a State Park there is no alcohol allowed. The Park Rangers drive by regularly which is nice in case you are having any problems or just have general questions about the park," notes a French Creek reviewer.
Varying hook-up availability: Not all sites offer full services. Jennifer S. notes about Hibernia Park: "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Lower Lake Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Great facilities all around the campsite," reports Daniel G. Other campgrounds like French Creek feature "a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake" and "playground at the campground and at the lake."
Consider educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger programs. "We LOVE camping here as the campsites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well," shares one camper about French Creek, noting they "have programs for kids."
Find swimming options: Many families appreciate designated swimming areas. "The lake is crystal clear and the beach is spotless," reports a reviewer. Another notes that Spruce Run has "several playgrounds, boat launches, and life guarded swimming area."
Tips from RVers
Check site leveling needs: At Starlite Camping Resort, RVers note: "The individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed." However, at other campgrounds like French Creek, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze."
Consider hook-up requirements: For RVers needing full connections, research thoroughly. "We had full hookups (20/30/50 amp, water & sewer). There's no cable but we were able to pickup about 6 channels with our digital antenna," reports a camper at Pickerel Point.
Verify site dimensions: RV length restrictions vary significantly across campgrounds. At Hibernia County Park, one RVer notes, "We mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel...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."
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