Just 18 miles west of Philadelphia, Devon sits in Pennsylvania's wooded Chester County where the average summer temperatures range from 75-85°F, perfect for overnight outdoor adventures. The nearby French Creek State Park contains 7,526 acres of forest with elevations reaching 500 feet above sea level. The area's campgrounds offer several climate-controlled yurt options for campers who want a balance of comfort and nature.
What to do
Kayaking on Chambers Lake: Hibernia County Park provides multiple water activities around its scenic lake. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill," notes Anna at Hibernia County Park.
Fishing for diverse species: The lakes at French Creek State Park host abundant fishing opportunities with species not mentioned elsewhere. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," explains Jen R.
Disc golf through the woods: Boulder Woods Campground attracts disc golf enthusiasts with its expansive course. "They have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf," shares Erik W. at Boulder Woods Campground.
Go Ape adventure course: When staying near Lums Pond, try the challenging aerial course. "Bike trails, Going Ape, kayaking and peaceful. Planning my next trip," recommends Leah H. who enjoyed Lums Pond State Park Campground.
What campers like
Large private sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness at French Creek. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," mentions Jen R. at French Creek State Park Campground.
Paver patios and hookups: Premium sites at KOA locations include special amenities. "Great site (once you're in it!) including patio furniture on a paver patio and seating around an upgraded fire pit. The landscaping made up for the tight squeeze," notes Matt S. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Yurt accommodations: For Devon-area yurt camping options, Lake-in-Wood offers comfortable alternatives to tents. "We are tent campers but there are a lot of RVs and options for a couple of cute cabins as well," mentions Olivia M. who stayed at Lake-in-Wood Campground.
Separate tent camping areas: Some parks wisely separate different camping styles. "As a tent camper, I was impressed by how Quakerwoods segregates mi tent pitchin' bredren from the rest of the folks who bring their homes with them on wheels, placing tent sites across the other side of a small creek," explains Stuart K.
What you should know
Tent sites can lack privacy: Some campsites offer limited screening between neighbors. "The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them," warns Jen about Green Lane Park.
Weather conditions: The area can experience sudden storms. "Our first night there A storm came through that was so bad I was worried a tree would fall on a trailer," shares Mary C. about her experience at Quakerwoods Campground.
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for yurt camping near Devon. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, which offers glamping options including canvas structures.
Off-season considerations: Some facilities change during colder months. "This was a last minute trip to end the season. Only stayed one night and most of the activities were closed due to it being November," notes Ray L. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Various campgrounds offer different play equipment. "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground. There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages," explains Phinon W. at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Child-specific fishing: Some areas set aside fishing spots for younger anglers. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," notes John Z. about Hibernia County Park.
Budget-friendly options: Affordable camping exists near Devon. "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups," mentions John Z., highlighting Hibernia's value for families seeking economical yurt alternatives near Devon, Pennsylvania.
Activity variety: French Creek State Park offers numerous family options. "There really is something for everyone here and if you can't find it you aren't looking very hard. There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground," shares Jen R.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Some sites present challenges for larger vehicles. "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. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap," warns Matt S. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Loop selection: Different campground sections offer varying amenities. "We have stayed at French Creek in the past however, we have never stayed in Loop C before. This is the only loop that allows pets," notes Jen R., providing useful information for RVers bringing animals.
Water and power access: Utility placement can be problematic. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," cautions Amanda H. about camping at Lums Pond.
