Located just northwest of Philadelphia, Gladwyne sits within Montgomery County where campers find a mix of dense forests and open meadows at elevations ranging from 200-400 feet. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for tent camping. Local campgrounds typically close from November to March due to freezing conditions.
What to Do
Disc golf courses: 18+ holes at Boulder Woods Campground with equipment rentals available in their camp store. "The camp ground has a very large golf disc course and they seem to have tournaments. They sell disc golf things in the store as well. This course is huge and brings in groups who play for the day," notes Karralee B.
Bird watching: Hawk migrations visible from observation platforms at Fort Washington State Park Campground, especially during spring and fall. "Should you call yourself a bird watcher, you'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn," explains Stuart K. He adds that you might spot "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles, Great Horned & Barn Owls."
Urban exploration: Philadelphia access within 20 minutes using public transportation from nearby campsites. "We stayed here for 3 nights while visiting family In Philadelphia. It is a 20 minute ride into Philly and Uber was was quick and responsive," reports Travyl Couple from their stay at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
What Campers Like
Creek access for dogs: Multiple spots for pets to swim at Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park, a top choice for dog friendly campgrounds near Gladwyne. "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!" shares Mackenzie B.
Secluded tent sites: Natural buffers between many campsites in certain loops at French Creek State Park Campground. "There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well... The sites are not right on top of one another," explains Jen R. Another camper notes, "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors."
Winter camping options: Year-round facilities available at certain locations when most campgrounds close. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! I'm a women in my thirties traveling alone and I felt very safe here," explains Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
What You Should Know
Site topography challenges: Rocky terrain at some campgrounds limits tent placement options. "Many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent," warns Ellen C. about French Creek State Park.
Weather considerations: Heavy rain impacts camping conditions at several parks near Gladwyne. "The only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!" shares Katie M.
Noise levels vary by loop: Traffic sounds noticeable at certain campgrounds. "A little loud at times with the turnpike right there," mentions Caryn I. about Boulder Woods. For a quieter stay, request sites away from major roads or in more secluded loops.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground amenities: Multiple options for kids at Village Scene Park, one of several pet friendly camping options near Gladwyne. "If you need to let the kids unwind for a bit to run around and explore, I would suggest a trip over to the Amazing Escape Room, just due east of here by 5 minutes," advises Stuart K.
Kid-friendly water activities: Lake swimming available at several locations during summer months. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Tent site selection: Request locations away from bathhouses for more privacy. "We tented in loop D…the only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!" shares Katie M.
Tips from RVers
Parking assistance: Staff help available at tighter campgrounds with narrow roads. "The spots are tight to get into but the staff will offer to park your camper using your vehicle. I let them park mine and I'm really glad I did. It was super tight," explains Erik W. about Boulder Woods Campground.
RV age restrictions: Some parks limit seasonal stays based on RV manufacturing date. "They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer. Ours is 13. Very disappointed," warns Caryn I. about a nearby campground.
Hookup variations: Electric-only sites common at state parks while private campgrounds offer full hookups. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," mentions Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground, making it a practical choice for those seeking dog friendly campgrounds near the Gladwyne area.
Legend
