Glamping options close to Swarthmore, Pennsylvania offer unique accommodations in the wooded areas of southeastern Pennsylvania, where seasonal temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. The region features multiple campgrounds within a 40-mile radius of Swarthmore, many situated along waterways like the Brandywine River and Chambers Lake that provide both scenic views and recreational opportunities.
What to Do
Water recreation at Atsion Lake: Visitors camping at Atsion Family Camp have access to multiple water activities. "In the area there are historic buildings and ruins you get to by 'off roading' on all dirt roads. Great places to kayak and Pineland Adventures right down the street has wonderful trips!" noted camper Alexa L.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lakes provide fishing access near glamping sites close to Swarthmore. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," shares Anna about Hibernia County Park, where fishing is particularly accessible for families with children under 12.
Hiking trails: Trail systems ranging from easy to moderate difficulty surround most campgrounds. "The park is a great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," mentions Matt S. about the extensive trail network at Lums Pond State Park, which features a loop around the pond.
Off-season camping: Several campgrounds remain open year-round for winter camping experiences. "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," reports Galit P. about French Creek State Park's off-season availability.
What Campers Like
Private, wooded sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers exceptional site spacing and natural barriers. "The site was fairly level, side-to-side, so I really only needed to level front to back. That was a bonus," notes Mark, adding that "the bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
Pet-friendly accommodations: Designated loops at several parks allow pets. "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets. I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop," reports Jen R. about her stay at French Creek State Park.
Proximity to Philadelphia: Campgrounds provide quick access to urban areas while maintaining natural settings. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. The park is clean, quiet, full of families. The staff are friendly and welcoming. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily," writes Jason E. about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Quiet atmosphere: For those seeking peace away from crowds, several options exist. "Peaceful New Jersey. I arrived on a Tuesday a few days after they closed the pool, and by Wednesday I had the whole row of tent sites to myself. Maybe that's why it was so peaceful, but every night after my cacophonous conference in Philadelphia, I couldn't wait to turn down Timberlane Road," shares Jorah about their stay at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
What You Should Know
Site conditions vary seasonally: Be prepared for weather impacts. "Our site was gravel with a small concrete patio and decently sized. All hookups worked as required so no complaints there. It was very quiet until Friday but noise is no issue to us as we love being in the middle of the action," explains Debbie W. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Booking requirements: Peak seasons require advance planning. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park, particularly for sites with full hookups.
Limited hookup options: Not all sites offer utilities. 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," advises Jennifer S.
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs between campgrounds. "Verizon cell service was between 1 and 2 bars," reports Frank J. about Parvin State Park, information that's crucial for remote workers seeking glamping options near Swarthmore.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and activities: Old Cedar Campground offers family-oriented amenities. "Nice pool, good fishing, staff is great," says Arnold M., while another camper noted, "There was 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."
Child-friendly water features: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas for children. "The pool and splash pad are very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area. Has a full grill inside with a large 'convenience store' with everything you could need for your trip including your go-to items that you might of forgot at home," shares Nicholas V. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near campgrounds provide learning experiences. "There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends," mentions Jim N. about Hibernia County Park, while another camper noted the proximity to "Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and Daniel Boone Homestead."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA provides various RV accommodations but requires careful navigation for larger rigs. "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 catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road," warns Matt S., adding, "Don't stay in this site in a big motorhome. The trailers/5th wheels seem better because they 'bend' at the hitch."
Full hookup availability: Several parks offer complete services. "It cost us $65 for the weekend plus a $6 service fee for using the Reserve America website. We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water," reports Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Dump stations: Not all parks provide sewer services. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park, crucial information for those planning extended stays in luxury RV glamping near Swarthmore.
