Best Campgrounds near Denver, PA

Denver, Pennsylvania features several established campgrounds catering to different camping styles within a concentrated area of Lancaster County. The region includes both mixed-use campgrounds like Hickory Run Family Camping Resort and Dutch Cousin Campground, where travelers can find tent sites alongside RV hookups and cabin rentals. Most developed campgrounds in this area maintain facilities like restrooms, showers, and electrical hookups, with many offering recreational amenities including fishing ponds, pools, and playgrounds. The campground landscape primarily consists of private facilities rather than public lands, with locations positioned conveniently near Amish Country attractions.

Seasonal considerations affect the camping experience in this region, as many campgrounds operate from early spring through late fall. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with some locations like Starlite Camping Resort maintaining a May to November schedule. Winter closures are common, though several campgrounds like Old Mill Stream remain open year-round. Many developed campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak summer weekends and fall foliage season. The terrain around Denver is primarily rolling hills with relatively mild elevation changes, making most campgrounds accessible without high-clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "The area is full of RVs but it's not congested. The bathrooms are clean and the showers are comfy."

Families appreciate the recreational amenities at campgrounds in this region, with fishing opportunities receiving particular mention in visitor reviews. Red Run Campground features creek access that appeals to campers seeking water recreation, with one visitor mentioning, "The Muddy Creek borders the campground on one side, which is a really nice backdrop." Many campgrounds in the area feature level, stone-based sites rather than natural surfaces, which some visitors find convenient while others prefer more natural settings. The proximity to Lancaster County attractions represents a significant draw, with most campgrounds positioned within easy driving distance of Amish communities, antique shops, and cultural sites. Several campgrounds host regular activities for children, including movie nights, hayrides, and seasonal events that enhance the family camping experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Denver, Pennsylvania (151)

    1. French Creek State Park Campground

    81 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    2. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

    3. Hickory Run Family Camping Resort

    9 Reviews
    Reinholds, PA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 336-5564

    "All of the sites are full electric and more than a few have very little space for a family size tent to be safely away from the fire ring. Ours had adequate distance but we got lucky tbh."

    "Streams are close by, hiking trails are numerous and Hawk Falls was a high point of the park. Peaceful, crisp air and beautiful Surroundings."

    4. Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    16 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Site next to us had a pipe break, they had a maintenance crew come out immediately and fix it. Amish stores/attractions close by for some entertainment also."

    "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."

    5. Old Mill Stream Campground

    17 Reviews
    Lampeter, PA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 299-2314

    "Tent sites are lined up along the water which is great for fishing (especially when you need to stay close to the littles sleeping in the tent). Lots of benches lined up along the water."

    "Not to noisy being next to a theme park. The bath house was just remodeled so it's excellent! Good price!"

    6. Starlite Camping Resort

    6 Reviews
    Hopeland, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 733-9655

    "Starlight is a nice campground to relax or explore central Pennsylvania."

    "The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore."

    7. Lancaster-New Holland KOA

    12 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 354-7926

    "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark. "

    "Not too close to each other. Has a great view of the valley and Amish farms. Everyone has been very friendly. No pool but the kids seem to enjoy the playground."

    8. Beacon Hill Camping

    11 Reviews
    Concord, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 768-8775

    $57 - $70 / night

    "Located w/in walking distance of small town of Intercourse, PA, with plenty of shopping and Amish crafts. Very friendly people. Inexpensive stay."

    "Within walking distance are Amish shops, and guided tours into the Amish countryside. Restaurants are nearby. Clean and quiet area."

    9. Dutch Cousin Campground

    5 Reviews
    Denver, PA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 336-6911

    "Easy access and a great central location to TONS of antique shops. Very clean and very friendly. Highly recommend!"

    10. Red Run Campground

    5 Reviews
    Stevens, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-4526

    "Very nice creek behind half of the sites. Lots of ducks to watch. Playground is nice and in the middle of the campground so no matter where you are it is not that far. Very large pond for fishing."

    "Campground is located along a beautiful Creek, that is accessible for play and fishing. There is also a small pond available for fishing."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 151 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Denver, PA

957 Reviews of 151 Denver Campgrounds


  • Gennifer K.
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    Nice park

    This was a great campground. Very convenient for local sites, food, and shopping. Super clean, a large pool, and all well maintained.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Locust Lake State Park Campground

    Two stars for pretty trees

    We booked two nights but upon arriving, we realized that there was no way to fit our trailer (only 25 ft). Called the office, they told us what other sites were available and we tried every one. Only one was remotely suitable for a travel trailer and we had to drive the wrong way through the loop to be at the right angle to even try backing it in. No luck. I’m honestly shocked that they label some of these sites as RV friendly because wow. We left and had to find other accommodations. Trying to get a refund and currently navigating their phone system/trying to get a refund. Three phone conversations later and I’ll have to call another number on Monday to get the right person to issue the refund. We’ve never stayed at PA parks before but if they’re all like this, then it makes it really hard to plan when some sites are fine for trailers and some aren’t even close. Just heads up.

  • M
    Oct. 6, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Hard with a large group

    Harder to do with a large group due to the early quiet hours, but park is very nice and well kept

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Stoevers Dam Park

    Park is closed. We were kicked out.

    LThe park is a beautiful city park. There are 7 small, level, back-in sites with electric, a picnic table and fire pit. We arrived in a Sunday and you have to call for a permit, but the office is only open on M-F during working hours. At 8 pm, a police officer told us the park was closed because of a bear, but that they had not gotten around to putting up signs. Wound up in a Walmart instead.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Dog owners read!

    There’s four loops. All connected A through D. We just needed a place to park and sleep so I got D011. Got there at 11pm and the D loop says no pets allowed. Not sure why when they are at every other loop but we had no where else to go and the area is pretty far off from anywhere else so the ol lab stayed in the camper. The bathrooms are tile and really nice with showers. And it was really quiet and chilly so a nice fall camp site. Just know ahead of time if you’re a dog owner!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Great place to stay!

    This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff. Our site was asphalt, that was a treat, tho not all of them were...

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Stonybrook RV Resort

    This is a great place!

    We spent four nights at Stonybrook RV Resort in Lehighton, PA, for a quiet wedding anniversary getaway— and so glad we did. We paid$150 per night total for a FHU 50 Amp Premium Back-in site (#F20). This campground makes a great home-base while hanging out in the Pocono Mountains. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • This place is in super condition— everything works as it’s supposed to and is clean and maintained 
    • The concrete pad/patio with Breeo smokeless fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and metal patio table and chairs made a great setup 
    • Our site(F20) is level and beautiful— spacious and beautifully landscaped 
    • We interacted with 5 members of their staff and all were welcoming and friendly to talk with 
    • There’s a heated pool behind the office/store so it’s not noisy for campers at their sites 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • Just one thing— the entrance made for a challenging entry up a steep grade, narrow roadway, and sharp turn in. I made it without problems, but it wasn’t easy in a 45’ motorhome towing a Jeep. This may be nitpicky— and I’m not complaining about it— just letting you know to expect it on arrival. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a great campground(I’ve already recommended it to my Newmar Kountry Klub chapter president as a possible site for a future rally).

Guide to Denver

Camping near Denver, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, the local campgrounds have something to offer.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun. It's a great place to camp and enjoy downtime!"
  • Fishing: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing in the lake. A visitor shared, "The lake is very nice and it's a very family park!"
  • Visiting Attractions: If you're near Hersheypark Camping Resort, take advantage of the shuttle service to Hersheypark. One camper noted, "The trolley was a great addition to getting to and from the Hershey attractions."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers at Hickory Run State Park Campground appreciate the spacious sites. A reviewer said, "We stayed in loop C that allows pets. Very spacious sites."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors enjoy the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "Spacious, beautiful, clean, quiet, easy, and lots to do and see."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Blue Rocks Family Campground are noted for being family-oriented. A happy camper shared, "Beautiful campground! Very family-oriented and a great place for a weekend getaway in the woods!"

What you should know:

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Elk Neck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A visitor stated, "Accessible and pet friendly. Great trails and great staff."
  • Site Proximity: Campers at Knoebels Campground noted that sites can be tight. One review said, "The only knock on it is how tight the sites are, but the communal spirit is great."
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds, like Locust Lake State Park Campground, are only open from mid-April to mid-October. A camper mentioned, "The lake was very clean. The camp store was great!"

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Hersheypark Camping Resort, which has playgrounds and pools. One parent said, "Our kids were able to walk to the playground and play every day before our outings."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A reviewer at French Creek State Park Campground noted, "The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area."
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along items for outdoor fun. A camper at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground mentioned, "There are some neat places around and markets are close by."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: RV campers at Codorus State Park Campground found some sites uneven. One said, "Some more level than others. Swimming/beach area was very nice to have."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups, like Hickory Run State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "We stayed in full hook up. Our site was long and narrow but backed up to a field."
  • Be Mindful of Traffic: Campers at Hersheypark Camping Resort noted the bus traffic. One camper mentioned, "The bus is very loud and drives very close to the sites."

Exploring the denver, pa campgrounds can lead to memorable experiences, whether you're camping with family or enjoying a solo adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Denver, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Denver, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 151 campgrounds and RV parks near Denver, PA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Denver, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Denver, PA is French Creek State Park Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 81 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Denver, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Denver, PA.