RV camping near Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania offers diverse terrain between rural Amish countryside and suburban Philadelphia. Most sites in this region sit at elevations between 150-500 feet, with campgrounds experiencing hot, humid summers and mild shoulder seasons that extend camping opportunities from March through November. Winter temperatures generally remain above 20°F, allowing several year-round RV parks to operate with limited amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake-In-Wood Campground features a fishing pond though some visitors note it needs maintenance. "Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice," explains Steve R. at Spring Gulch Resort Campground.
Water activities: Creekside swimming and water play options exist at several parks. "There was a pond for swimming and there were dead fish," reports Jen R. about Memorial Day weekend at Spring Gulch Resort Campground. For those seeking river activities, Thousand Trails Circle M offers unique water recreation: "The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river, bring tubes and kayaks! We didn't know but went and bought a tube and spent the day on the river!"
Miniature golf: Many campgrounds maintain mini-golf courses as family entertainment options. "Mini golf was fun but need to be regreened...several holes needed maintenance," notes Beth B. about Lake-In-Wood Campground, highlighting common maintenance issues at these facilities.
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Village Scene Park provides surprising tranquility despite its suburban setting. "Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet," writes Stuart K. about Village Scene Park, adding it has a "smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents."
Weekend activities: Scheduled events enhance weekend stays at many Garnet Valley area campgrounds. "This campground was very nice. They had a live band one evening. Activities though the day were fun," reports Dawn T. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground, where programming runs consistently throughout peak season.
Spacious premium sites: Some campgrounds offer upgraded site options with more room. "Very well kept camp ground. The Prime Sites are very spacious," notes Steve R. about Spring Gulch, though site quality varies significantly across the region's campgrounds.
What you should know
Uneven terrain: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice," reports Beth B. about Spring Gulch Resort. The region's rolling landscape means completely flat sites are uncommon, particularly at older campgrounds.
Weekend crowding: Occupancy spikes dramatically Friday through Sunday, especially during fall. "Weekend was cold but the park was pretty full," notes Laure D. about Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, illustrating the consistent weekend demand regardless of weather.
Limited walking trails: Despite wooded settings, formal hiking paths are scarce. "No walking trails," lists Phinon W. under the cons for Spring Gulch Resort Campground, indicating that nature activities generally center around amenities rather than natural exploration.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Swimming options vary widely between campgrounds. "Heated spa/pool in upper area are a bonus. Lots of sports gear available for free to use within park, has to be returned by 5 when main office closes," explains Beth B. about Thousand Trails Circle M, where both indoor and outdoor pools operate seasonally.
Activity scheduling: Weekend programming keeps children entertained at many parks. "Fun activities for kids and adults," reports Stacey T. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground, where organized events occur regularly during peak season.
Animal interactions: Some campgrounds feature small farm animals for children. "Goats to pet and watch," mentions Jen R. about Lake-In-Wood Campground, which incorporates agricultural elements reflecting the broader Amish countryside.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Corner spots and premium locations require early booking. "Sites are a good size though our spot was not level at all, we were on a strange slope tucked in on a corner," cautions a reviewer at Spring Gulch, highlighting the importance of requesting specific site types.
Seasonal considerations: Spring moisture can create challenges for ground-level equipment. "Campsites can be very rocky or muddy. We actually broke quite a few tent stakes just trying to get our footprint down," notes Phinon W. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground, applicable to RVers using outdoor mats or equipment.
Dump station timing: Limited dump facilities create congestion during checkout periods at Mays Landing Resort. "Only two dump stations for a pretty large park," explains Jen R. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground, recommending weekday or early morning dumping to avoid waiting.
