French Creek State Park Campground sits approximately 15 miles southeast of Reading, making it one of several accessible dog friendly campgrounds near Fogelsville. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-1,200 feet and a humid continental climate. Most campgrounds in the area experience seasonal transitions with peak camping from April through October, though some remain open year-round.
What to do
Explore boulder formations: Blue Rocks Family Campground provides direct access to a unique natural attraction. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" reports Terri S. The campground sits at the base of popular hiking trails with distinctive geological features.
Fish in stocked ponds: Stonybrook RV Resort offers fishing opportunities in a well-maintained setting. Though primarily serving RV campers, the resort welcomes day visitors for fishing. "We stayed here for 3 nights and thought well of the park. The place was meticulously clean and the permanent campers keep their sites so well," notes Cindy.
Hike interconnected trail systems: French Creek State Park Campground features extensive hiking networks with varied difficulty levels. "There are 200 individual sites in four loops, some with full hookups for RVs, some with electric only but mostly primitive sites. There are also several cottages, cabins and yurts available as well," explains Ellen C. The park contains 44 miles of trails rated from easy to difficult.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many campgrounds prioritize site quality over quantity. "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," writes Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Seasonal amenities: Jim Thorpe Camping Resort offers facilities that change with the seasons. "There is a playground, pool, arcade, and office store. We mainly come out to use the outdoor shooting range nearby. There's plenty of places to check out in town," shares Melissa K. The campground provides access to the Switchback Trail directly from the property.
Clean, updated facilities: Hickory Run State Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "This is probably the largest, most well-kept public campground I have ever been to, and I'm dying to return," states Bridget D. The park includes both modern and rustic bathroom facilities depending on which camping loop you select.
What you should know
Site conditions vary after rain: Some campgrounds struggle with drainage. "Sites are swampy if they've had rain! Took us over two hours to disconnect because of mushy, muddy site!" warns Linda F. about Robin Hill Campground. Sites with gravel bases typically drain better than grassy areas.
Campground layouts affect privacy: Hickory Run State Park Campground offers different experiences based on loop selection. "The sites in this loop were spacious and more in an open area, but we were along a wooded area which gave us some shade," explains Shirley M. The outer loops often have more basic facilities but larger sites.
Bear activity requires precautions: Wildlife encounters happen regularly in the area. "We were warned to be cautious about leaving food out as there have been some bear sightings," mentions Jennifer D. about Hickory Run State Park. Most campgrounds require food storage in vehicles or campers when not in use.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: When booking sites with children, location within campgrounds affects convenience. "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line," notes Jen R. about French Creek.
Seasonal activities enhance visits: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers programmed events throughout their operating season. "Great campground with lots of amenities. The staff was friendly, the store had essentials and more, and there was great hiking right from the grounds," reports Maggie H. Many campgrounds host weekend activities from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Natural features provide entertainment: Streams and small bodies of water become focal points for families. "Loved being right next to the stream. No fish in sight though. Sites were huge! Hiking trail was about a mile up and back but cool," shares Kelly J. about Allentown KOA.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service considerations: Allentown KOA receives positive feedback for RV accommodations. "I was passing through and I only stayed one night. When I arrived, check-in was easy and professional. A host had me follow him to a super convenient pull-through site, and stayed to make sure I was all set," explains Corby M. Many RVers appreciate the level sites that reduce setup time.
Utility placement and accessibility: Pine Hill RV Park designs sites with practical considerations. "The sites were nice, the park is clean, and convenient to I-78. It is set in a rural area surrounded by fields and pastures which makes for a peaceful setting. Roads and campsites are gravel and very easy for RVs of any size to navigate," comments Nancy W.
Dump station availability: Some campgrounds offer services for non-guests. "They allow to dump and fill fresh water (sign at the entrance says that as well) for a small 10$ which is quite nice. Was quick and convenient, lady at the front desk was very kind!" shares Christoph about Allentown KOA, making it a valuable resource for RVers passing through.
Scout
