Mertztown, Pennsylvania sits in the lush Lehigh Valley region, with elevations ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 82°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Most campgrounds in the region maintain larger, spacious campsites set among deciduous trees, providing natural shade during summer months but requiring careful planning for fall and winter camping.
What to do
Hiking available year-round: French Creek State Park Campground offers multiple trails connecting to the adjacent Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return... There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," shares Katie M. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Several campgrounds provide lake access for fishing and non-motorized boating. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, you can fish for bass, northern pike, and walleye. "You can launch your kayak easily from the shore," notes Ruette W. The recreation area also offers boat rentals during peak season.
Frisbee golf through wooded terrain: French Creek State Park features a challenging frisbee golf course winding through the woods. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" explains Jen R.
What campers like
Private, shaded sites: Campers consistently mention the privacy between sites at many campgrounds near Mertztown. At Mountainview Campground in Little York, Christina H. notes, "This place was actually fantastic... My husband said he would come back here just for the scenic drive to this campsite even, and I'd have to agree. The campsites are spacious and the facilities are clean."
Wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" describes Christina H.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Most campgrounds in the region maintain good bathroom facilities. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," shares Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
What you should know
Variable site sizes and terrain: When camping with larger equipment, research site specifications carefully. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. explains, "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and 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 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. 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."
Weather considerations: The Lehigh Valley region experiences significant seasonal changes. Spring often brings rain and potential flooding near water sites. "The campground sites at these locations tend to be spacious with good separation between neighbors, providing ample room for standard camping setups but not designed for horse containment," according to local reports.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds suitable for various ages. French Creek State Park provides "at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids)" according to Katie M. This gives children dedicated play areas after hiking or swimming.
Educational opportunities: Tuscarora State Park Campground offers wildlife viewing and nearby educational sites. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," shares Jen R., making it ideal for families seeking outdoor learning experiences.
Safety considerations: For families with small children, look for campgrounds with defined boundaries. "Tuscarora State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. There are 200 individual sites in four loops, some with full hookups for RVs, some with electric only but mostly primitive sites," explains Ellen C.
Tips from RVers
Levelness challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. At Starlite Camping Resort, Craig F. notes, "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed." This makes setup easier despite the overall topography.
Water pressure considerations: RVers should check water pressure at their sites. "Water pressure and electric were both great throughout the stay," says Craig F. about Starlite Camping Resort. Having consistent pressure makes showering and dishwashing more convenient.
Limited big rig access: Many campgrounds have restrictions for larger RVs. "If you're hauling a big camper you'll need power for the hills," warns Chris G. about Starlite Camping Resort, highlighting the importance of checking road grades before arrival.
