French Creek State Park's luxurious glamping accommodations sit at an elevation of 650 feet, creating a comfortable four-season retreat in southeastern Pennsylvania's rolling hills. The area's moderate climate ranges from summer highs in the 80s to winter lows in the 20s, with glamping units available year-round. The surrounding region features dense deciduous forest with oak, maple, and hickory trees providing natural privacy between sites.
What to do
Hiking trails with varying difficulty: French Creek State Park offers 35 miles of hiking paths ranging from easy strolls to challenging terrain. "There are a half dozen, easy trails, the longest is around 2 miles," notes a visitor to Hibernia County Park, which connects to French Creek's trail system.
Fishing at multiple locations: Cast a line at Chambers Lake, Scott's Run Lake, or Brandywine Creek. "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," according to a visitor at French Creek State Park Campground.
Amish farm viewing: From Lancaster/New Holland KOA, visitors enjoy authentic agricultural experiences. "The campground is very well lit and can be navigated easily at night. The only downfall for us was the limited things to do with a child. They have a swinger but nothing else. It's hard to entertain on rainy days," notes a family who stayed there.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many glamping units sit on secluded sites with natural barriers. At Lake-In-Wood Campground, "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," explains a reviewer who appreciated the unique accommodations.
Clean facilities with modern touches: Philadelphia/West Chester KOA offers upscale amenities that complement glamping experiences. "There are two side compartments for water bottles which are deep and stretchy. They definitely keep your bottles in tack and can even handle an umbrella without worry of it falling out," describes a camper reviewing their experience with the campground's rental equipment.
Well-maintained common areas: Glamping sites typically include access to shared amenities. "All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop. At the bath house there are two sinks for washing dishes and a counter to set them on which is nice. They are deep sinks also with HOT water," notes a visitor at French Creek State Park.
What you should know
Winter camping considerations: Some glamping units remain open year-round but require planning. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby. 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," advises a winter camper at French Creek.
Reservations needed during peak periods: Glamping accommodations book quickly during summer and special events. At Country Acres Campground, a visitor notes, "This campground is a very nice quite, clean campground. Very nice pleasant helpful people running this campground. I found it exceptionally clean."
Potential noise from nearby activities: Some glamping sites sit near recreational areas. "There is a quarry close by so you could hear the trucks beeping and the noise from there but that was the only negative thing. Huge pond for fishing, miniature gold, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool," reports a visitor to Lake-In-Wood Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for rainy day activities: While glamping units offer shelter, having indoor options helps. "We brought our family (4 children - 8 yrs, 6 yrs, 2 yrs, 3 months) and we had a great week. The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself and loved it," shares a family who stayed at Country Acres Campground.
Consider age-appropriate accommodations: Different glamping units suit different family compositions. A visitor at Old Mill Stream Campground notes, "Family cabins available, tent sites are small. Clean parks with a small stream. Next to Dutch Wonderland, showers are nice, laundry facilities available."
Look for themed accommodations: Specialty glamping units add excitement for children. "This is a great park in Lancaster County! The one thing that comes to mind is gnomes! After our week here, we bought one from the gift store for future camping adventures," enthuses a family who enjoyed Lake-In-Wood's themed glamping options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters for larger vehicles: When bringing an RV near glamping areas, choose carefully. At Dutch Cousin Campground, a camper advises, "Great smaller campground. Staff was friendly, general vibe was low key. A lot of year round sites. Only complaint being not a lot for the kids to do aside from ride bike."
Expect varying hookup options: Some glamping-friendly campgrounds offer limited RV services. "We Stayed at Lake in Wood campground in July. The place was huge. The roads were very tight and you really had to watch how you drove through because of the trees. Our site was a drive-through but slanted," explains an RV camper who visited the same property where glamping units are located.
Check site dimensions carefully: RV sites near glamping accommodations may have constraints. "I would steer clear of this row. The road for this row is narrow and there is a fence that makes backing in more difficult, especially for a 30+ ft travel trailer," cautions a visitor to Lancaster/New Holland KOA, highlighting the importance of researching site specifications before arrival.
