H
Heidi Z.
Traveler
TravelerThe Loose Caboose Campground
Nice view
The owner is kind and knowledgeable a lot of live in / snowbirds . Some are very kind but some of the live in’s are crude .
Camping near Garnet Valley, PA
126 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Search destinations
Add dates
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania sits within a diverse camping landscape that spans three states, with options ranging from full-service KOA campgrounds to primitive sites in state forests. Within a 45-minute drive, campers can access Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA in New Jersey and Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, both offering amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and full hookups for RVs. Ridley Creek State Park provides group camping facilities closer to town, while more natural settings can be found at French Creek State Park, which features 200 campsites across four loops with varying levels of amenities. For those seeking water-based recreation, Lums Pond State Park in Delaware offers spacious sites near a pond suitable for kayaking and fishing.
Reservations are essential during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day, particularly for waterfront sites and those with full hookups. Many campgrounds in the region experience significant seasonal variations in availability and amenities, with some facilities closing entirely during winter months. As one camper noted about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy." Road conditions can be challenging after heavy rains, with occasional flooding reported at lower elevation sites. Cell service varies considerably, with stronger coverage at KOAs and campgrounds closer to Philadelphia, while more remote locations may have limited connectivity.
Water access represents a significant draw for many campsites in the region. At Wharton State Forest's Atsion Family Campground, visitors highlight the lakeside sites: "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at Atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center." Site selection proves crucial for privacy and comfort, with many reviewers noting significant differences between loops and individual sites. French Creek State Park receives mixed reviews regarding site spacing, with some loops described as "tightly spaced" while others offer more separation between campers. The proximity to Philadelphia makes these campgrounds popular with urban residents seeking weekend escapes, with one reviewer describing French Creek as "the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes."
Best Campgrounds near Garnet Valley (126)
1. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
"They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."
"In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"
2. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park
"well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."
"We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back"
from $57 / night
Check Availability3. Lums Pond State Park Campground
"Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."
"The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."
from $29 - $51 / night
Check Availability4. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
"The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."
"Everything was within close walking distance and the staff were extremely helpful. Pool and bathrooms were very clean."
from $59 - $86 / night
Check Availability5. French Creek State Park Campground
"We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"
"Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."
from $24 - $135 / night
Check Availability6. Old Cedar Campground
"This row of sites lacked the trees for shade and privacy found at most other sites around the campground. The pool was nice and clean."
"Not close off the highway, but wooden sites. Seems as though people spend their summers there. Pool was beautiful and looked new. Mini golf was decrepit and looked abandoned. Store was nice."
from $31 - $50 / night
Check Availability7. Tinicum Island
8. Four Seasons Family Campground
"They have many amenities form a lake to swim or fish, to playgrounds,theres a convenient store and even an arcade, and the best part is all the farms around."
from $50 - $150 / night
Check Availability9. Elk Neck State Park Campground
"I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.
The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. ""Surrounding area
There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."from $21 - $55 / night
Check Availability10. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer
"They are new-ish Shasta campers, queen bed, 1 slide, rear bunks, 2 entrances. Very clean. Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."
"I think the lale could use a little cleanup with the amount of bobbers, string and mess left behind by people. There have ao many cabins its crazy and alot of seasonal rentals."
Drive Time
- 22 min from Philadelphia, PA
- 49 min from Vineland, NJ
- 49 min from Trenton, NJ
- 59 min from Reading, PA
Recent Camping Photos near Garnet Valley, PA
258 Photos of 126 Garnet Valley Campgrounds
OAK M.
Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA
Ray L.
Philadelphia-West Chester KOA
Paul Q.
Four Seasons Family Campground
Dave G.
Brandywine Creek Campground
Stacy D.
Old Cedar Campground
Debbie W.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer
Ellen B.
Lums Pond State Park Campground
Jennifer S.
Hibernia County Park
J K.
Evansburg State Park Campground
An V.
Cecil County Permaculture
LaPlace T.
Tranquil Creekside Camp
Amber F.
Parvin State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Garnet Valley, PA
920 Reviews of 126 Garnet Valley Campgrounds
Nadine R.
GuideAtsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest
Not my vibe
I personally did not like this campsite. First of all, our site tag was leftover from SEPTEMBER. Did no one look at any of these sites and leave someone else’s registration posted there for almost a year? Wild. Our campsite had trash leftover from previous campers. The whole campground was loud - from other campers to just the sounds from the nearby road. If you are looking for peace it is NOT here. If you’re looking to have loud music time all night with no repercussions as your kids ride around yelling and carrying on past midnight then you’ll have a blast. The pros of this campsite was supposed to be the access to Lake Atsion but we were turned away at the gate at 12:30 as they stated they were at capacity. Checking into our campsite they specifically asked if we would be utilizing the recreation area so we would have a pass for entry, but that’s seemingly not in their logistical headcount. I would not visit here again.
BGuideSusquehanna State Park Campground
A little noisy - park stuff, not campers
A beautiful, well maintained park with lots to do, great bathroom facilities and extremely nice people. The electric sites aren't all together, so you don't have RV's lined up but maybe annoying for folks who are tent camping. Avoid the locations in the mid-30's by the dumpster, both staff and campers start shaking the lid around 6:30. Between 5 AM and noon staff were driving big trucks and ATV's around with loud reverse horns, and slamming the fire pit grills, which they store sideways. Overall I had a really wonderful time, but that's largely down to good sound reduction inside the van. Almost zero cell service. I was able to get a couple of text messages in and out, but seemed to be a fluke.
Isabel Z.
ScoutElk Neck State Park Campground
Great for families
This campsite was amazing for our first tent camping experience. The park was a godsend for keeping our toddler occupied and we felt very safe overall. While the beach is pretty, be careful about the water condition. We were warned before entering and informed of the risks. They were very clear on the condition of the water that day which was a yellow, slight risk. But normally it should be okay. We would definitely camp here again.
John L.ScoutWading Pines Camping Resort
Poor sites
I recently stayed at Site 36, and unfortunately, my experience was very disappointing. The biggest issue was the campsite itself. Site 36 is extremely small, with neighboring campers only about 5 feet away on one side and roughly 12 feet behind the site. There was very little privacy, which made it difficult to relax. Many of the nearby sites appeared to be occupied by long-term or permanent residents. Several had large amounts of personal belongings stored under tarps, giving the area an unkempt appearance. In addition, the neighboring campsite had children's bikes, large toys, and other miscellaneous items overflowing onto the site I had rented, making it feel even more cramped. Another major concern was the constant cigarette and marijuana smoke. It was noticeable throughout much of the day, and because of the smoke, I couldn't comfortably leave my camper windows open. At over $110 per night for a full hookup site, I expected a much better experience. I understand the campground told me there were no other sites available, although I did notice a few empty sites during my stay. Whether those sites were reserved or unavailable for another reason, I can't say, but Site 346 should not be rented at this price given its condition and lack of privacy. Overall, I would not stay here again and cannot recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing camping experience. Its great for daily tubing but as a camper they lock the fence that gets you to the bridge so you have to take a long walk around although non campers can pull right up, it makes no sense to have a pass through that's locked.
ryan H.ScoutGodfrey Bridge — Wharton State Forest
Primitive, vehicle accessible campground
$10/night for out of staters. About 30 well spaced sites. Every site has fire ring, some places half shaded. Pit toilets spaced around the campground. No water. Great cell service (5G) with Verizon
- TTroli R.Guide
Aberdeen Proving Ground RV Park
Bougie sites; AWFUL reservation system
BASE ACCESS REQUIRED!
Electric/Water/Sewer hookup sites for $56 a night! (2 night minimum) Which is a great full hookup price, even though it's gone up $6 since last year. Weekly and monthly pricing available as well.
The sites are neat, well maintained, level, and sunny with concrete pads and paved campground roads. Centrally located laundry facilities and airconditioned bath house. Playground, boat launch, beach volleyball court, disk golf, basketball court, and outdoor pool all within walking distance. Other base amenities include: commissary, gas station, bowling, BBQ, Dunkin', and Greek restaurants, and golf. (I'm sure I'm forgetting something.)
Note: in July it is very buggy - the biting flies are the worst. So bring bug spray or a screened in tent to eat in.
The downside: the reservation system is a major PITA. You have to download a PDF packet, fill it out, and EMAIL it in. When you get your confirmation, it doesn't include a specific site number. You get assigned one when they call you the week of your scheduled check-in for payment completion.
Don't miss out on: the water! My advice would be to reserve one of their boats at the same time you reserve your campsite. The water in this area is great - no jellyfish, low waves. You can SUP, kayak, pontoon boat. Whatever your preference. There are large flats of grasses - which you'd want to avoid with a motor but are so much fun to paddle over. Also check out the Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge island. You can't go inland, but you can anchor off shore, jump in and wade around the shallows.
Also very driveable to an off-base movie theater, Baltimore, and Havre de Grace.
Carol C.ScoutOtter Creek Campground
Lovely tranquil campsites next to river
We stayed only one night in primitive tent site which was massive with a turnaround. It was great. There are fire pits and picnic tables and level ground. Very serene. We walked down to the river, breathtaking. Not sure of other amenities as we didn’t use them.
- JJohn S.Scout
Quakerwoods Campground
Great place. Friendliest people
The staff is the GREATEST. They are knowledgeable and helpful. The grounds are clean. The shower rooms are clean and large. Laundry room is perfect. They have pull-thrus, back ins and tent sites. Dog stations are placed throughout the park. The campers are also the friendliest. You can always tell the condition of the camp by the quality of the people staying there.. everyone was respectful, courteous and friendly. We stayed in July, 2026 and would DEFINITELY stay again next time we are thru PA.
Guide to Garnet Valley
Camping sites near Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania span across densely forested terrain with elevations ranging from 230 to 450 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid continental climate patterns with summer temperatures averaging 76-85°F from June through August. Most campsites in the area require advance booking up to 6 months ahead, particularly for weekends between April and October when rainfall averages 3-4 inches per month.
What to do
Fishing at various depths: At Lums Pond State Park Campground in Delaware, the 200-acre pond supports multiple fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites. "Nice for outdoor activities... Great for fishing," notes one visitor to Lums Pond State Park Campground, while another camper mentions seeing "bass" being caught regularly at the well-maintained fishing areas.
Hiking shorter trails: For those seeking quick nature access, Group Camp at Ridley Creek State Park offers easy trails close to camp. "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park," reports one visitor to Ridley Creek, and another adds that there are "well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in!"
Canoe rentals on calm water: At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, the Brandywine River provides gentle paddling directly from the campground. "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," one camper shares about their experience. Seasonal rentals typically run from April through September.
What campers like
Spacious bathroom facilities: The newer bathhouses at Elk Neck State Park include individual shower rooms with good hot water pressure. A camper noted: "Bathhouses were open with hot water. Nice clean bathhouses. Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface," making Elk Neck State Park Campground a comfortable option despite being 40 minutes from Garnet Valley.
Multi-use recreational facilities: Ridley Creek State Park offers diverse facilities beyond typical camping amenities. "There is a greag picnic area with grills. well marked trails great for hiking," one reviewer mentions about Ridley Creek State Park, while another notes, "I go camping here almost every year and they a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on."
Level campsite pads: French Creek State Park features thoughtfully engineered sites with paved areas for easy setup. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," a reviewer points out, while another mentions: "Spacious sites. Bathrooms were just okay. Muddy floors - don't know how often floors are cleaned."
What you should know
Cell service variability: Coverage fluctuates significantly across the region with Old Cedar Campground offering reliable connectivity. "Wifi worked well enough for us to stream Netflix and YouTube," shares a visitor to Old Cedar Campground, making it suitable for those needing to stay connected.
Seasonal facility changes: Between November and March, many campground amenities close or operate on reduced schedules. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, a reviewer advises, "note- this does close for winter and reopens in April but call park for exact closure dates because they do change."
Site selection impacts experience: At Four Seasons Family Campground, site locations determine the quality of stay. "Very quiet and peaceful at night with lots of activities for kids during the day," notes one camper, though others have mentioned the varying quality between different sections of the grounds.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling awareness: Four Seasons Family Campground offers structured programming throughout the day. "The staff is friendly. Facilities are clean. Very quiet and peaceful at night with lots of activities for the kids during the day," reports a camper at Four Seasons Family Campground.
Playground proximity: When booking at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park (now Adventure Bound), consider distance to play areas. "Great campground, 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 one visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, while another mentioned "the playground and pool" being perfect for young children.
Water activity requirements: Height restrictions apply at some water facilities. A Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park visitor warned: "The pool and splash park were great but you needed to be at least 42 inches to go on the slide or bounce house," which is important information for families with smaller children.
Tips from RVers
Back-in angle challenges: Some sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA present difficult angles for larger motorhomes. "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," warns one RVer about their experience at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Shared utility connections: At Old Cedar Campground, water hookups alternate between sites. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises one camper who stayed there.
Elevation changes within loops: When booking at French Creek State Park, check the specific loop's terrain. "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," suggests a visitor familiar with the varying elevations and access points throughout the campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Garnet Valley, PA?
What camping is available near Garnet Valley, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Garnet Valley, PA offers a wide range of camping options, with 126 campgrounds and RV parks near Garnet Valley, PA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Garnet Valley, PA?
Which is the most popular campground near Garnet Valley, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Garnet Valley, PA is Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 21 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Garnet Valley, PA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Garnet Valley, PA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Garnet Valley, PA.
Keep Exploring