Situated within the rolling hills of southeastern Pennsylvania, camping spots near Elverson, Pennsylvania provide access to a rich landscape of forests, valleys, and waterways. The area sits at approximately 650 feet above sea level in the Schuylkill River watershed, with seasonal temperature fluctuations that make spring and fall particularly popular for outdoor recreation. Winters can bring temperatures below freezing with occasional snow, requiring year-round campers to prepare accordingly.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Year-round fishing is available at French Creek State Park Campground, where anglers can target multiple species. "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," notes Jen R.
**Water recreation: Hopewell and Scotts Run Lakes offer kayaking and boating options. "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," reports Ellen C.
**Hiking trail variety: The region features interconnected trail systems ranging from easy family paths to more challenging terrain. At Hibernia County Park, "There are many trails for walking, hiking or biking as well as spending time on the lake." Chelsea adds, "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful."
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at several campgrounds. "Plenty of shade and the campground is laid out well," writes one reviewer, while another notes about French Creek State Park, "Private sites with gravel and nice views. The sites are not right on top of one another."
Scenic views: The countryside surrounding Elverson offers distinctive landscapes. At Lancaster-New Holland KOA, campers enjoy "unobstructed views of the Amish farmland and lots of room." Lindsay H. described it as having "Gorgeous Amish Views" while another camper called it a "peaceful, beautiful valley views of Amish country."
Immaculate facilities: Many campgrounds maintain exceptionally clean facilities. At Country Acres Campground, "The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," according to Stephanie S. Another camper added, "LOVELY new bath house," while a third mentioned it's "probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at."
What you should know
Loop-specific features: Different camping loops have distinct characteristics. At French Creek, "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets. All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," while another camper noted differences between loops, "Loop A to have very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C."
Off-season considerations: Winter camping options are limited but available. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you," shares Galit P.
Site selection challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain issues to consider. At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice," and "Campsites can be on top of each other and can be very rocky or muddy. We actually broke quite a few tent stakes just trying to get our footprint down."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer structured recreation for children. "Very nice clean campground. Store, pool and cafe. Firewood and miniature golf available," notes Edward M. about Lake-In-Wood Campground, while another camper mentioned their "huge pond for fishing, miniature golf, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "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," shares a visitor to Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Family-oriented events: Seasonal activities engage children throughout the camping season. At Red Run Campground, "We attended a scavenger hunt and hayrides for the kids in the evenings. Kids loved it," while another camper noted, "They have a lot of events for the kids which is great. Movie night, ice cream sundaes, there was a candy hunt that we attended."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limitations for big RVs. "Upper level has more shade and is better suited for rigs under 30 feet," advises one camper at Beacon Hill Camping. Another RVer warns, "The sites are close together, and in direct sun. Amenities are all standard and clean."
Leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds. "Our site was a drive-through but slanted. There wasn't much room on our site to do anything else," notes Mary C., while another camper recommends, "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room."
Hookup availability: Electric-only sites are common with limited full-hookup options. At Hibernia County 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," and "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee."
