French Creek State Park Campground spans 7,526 acres in Chester County, located about 25 miles from Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. The park's elevation ranges between 500-800 feet above sea level, creating diverse terrain for hiking and camping. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 60-75°F daytime temperatures with cooler nights.
What to do
Hiking trails: French Creek State Park Campground offers extensive trail systems for all ability levels. "There are lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," notes Katie M. The park includes multiple loops with varying difficulty.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks near Glen Mills provide fishing access. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," explains a visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Lums Pond State Park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," shares Mark from Lums Pond State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds around Glen Mills feature well-spaced sites. "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," reports Jen R. about her stay at French Creek State Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain good standards. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," notes a camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Rural scenery: Lancaster-New Holland KOA provides unique views. "Peaceful, beautiful valley views of Amish country," writes Angie G. Another visitor mentions, "Great no frills place to relax. No activities and not much open for touristy stuff due to Covid 19. But the daily views of fields, farmers plowing with horses or the buggys going by was great."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park.
Site variations: Terrain can affect site quality at Hibernia County Park. "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the 'sites' are smaller and it's more open," explains Jennifer S. She adds, "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
No hookups at some sites: Not all parks offer full amenities. "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," warns a camper about Hibernia County Park.
Seasonal considerations: "We went to Evansburg State Park...I find Evansburg to be the muddiest State Park I've every experienced; I always bring a pair of sneakers to change out of my hiking boots," recommends Andrew C.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park caters specifically to families. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" reports Karla R. Another visitor adds, "We had stayed in this campground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds."
Swimming options: Several parks offer water recreation. "The water park was GREAT for kids and adults. Super clean. Lots to do. Well worth a week," notes Aaron E. about Jellystone Park.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards). The only complaint I have is that the kiddie swings seem to be modeled after the seasickness machine," explains a camper at Lums Pond State Park.
Fishing for kids: "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," shares a French Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA has varying site conditions. "If you can manage without full hookups, choose the spots down by the creek. The views are the best in the place. Just a little muddy. Otherwise the upper spots are pretty close to each other and in direct sun," suggests Laura R.
Leveling considerations: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some parks. "We had a great time at French Creek State Park...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!" notes Katie M.
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setup. "A bit pricey for what ya get, in my opinion... Many spots had trees but we couldn't get one as they stated our rig would not fit," reports Lawrence P. from Old Cedar Campground.
Winter camping options: For glamping close to Glen Mills, Pennsylvania in colder months, consider year-round options. "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," shares Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
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