Glen Mills sits within the Brandywine Creek watershed in southeastern Pennsylvania where the terrain features rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F while summer temperatures hover around 70-85°F with higher humidity. The region's state parks generally remain open year-round, though camping facilities may have seasonal limitations between November and March.
What to do
Hiking trails exploration: French Creek State Park offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "I've been here a couple different times and stayed in different sites each time and always had a great time," notes Christopher J. The park features both short family-friendly paths and longer routes for experienced hikers, with most trails well-marked and maintained year-round.
Fishing opportunities: Elk Neck State Park provides excellent fishing access with both freshwater and Chesapeake Bay options. "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," reports Kate J., who visited the park's fishing areas. The park offers fishing from shore or boat with a Maryland fishing license required ($20.50 for non-residents).
Frisbee golf course: French Creek maintains an 18-hole disc golf course winding through wooded areas. The course provides a moderate challenge with both open fields and forested sections. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" explains one camper who enjoyed this amenity.
Bird watching excursions: Fort Washington State Park features dedicated bird watching platforms perfect for spotting migratory species. "If 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 Spring and Autumn," notes Stuart K. The park's observation deck provides panoramic views and information panels identifying common species.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At French Creek State Park Campground, the natural vegetation creates separation between camping areas. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," shares Jen R. This arrangement allows for a more secluded experience even when the campground is busy.
Clean bathroom facilities: The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA receives consistent praise for maintenance. "The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds," notes Rae M. Their bathhouses feature regular cleaning schedules, hot water availability, and adequate ventilation.
Level, accessible sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers well-designed camping spaces. "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site—spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," reports Matt S. The flat terrain throughout the camping loops makes setup easier for tents and RVs alike.
Water feature access: Hibernia County Park provides scenic waterfront opportunities. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails," explains Anna, who appreciated the easy water access. The children's fishing pond offers a designated area for young anglers with higher catch rates.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak seasons (May-September), most parks require booking 2-6 months in advance. French Creek sites fill quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Weekday availability tends to be better for last-minute planning.
Pet policies vary: Hibernia County Park welcomes dogs at campsites but requires leashes at all times. "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms," reports Anna, noting the staff's helpfulness with pet owners. Designated pet walking areas exist in most loops.
Alcohol restrictions: Several state parks, including French Creek and Fort Washington, prohibit alcohol throughout the grounds. This rule is actively enforced by park rangers who conduct regular patrols, especially on weekends and holidays.
Limited cell service: Reception varies significantly throughout the region. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect," explains Megan S. about Elk Neck State Park. Consider downloading offline maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Evansburg State Park offers well-maintained play equipment near camping areas. "Since he was 2 years old I've taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails to wandering in the woods looking for 'adventures'," shares Andrew C. The playground areas include equipment suitable for various age groups.
Educational opportunities: Fort Washington State Park includes interpretive displays about local history and ecosystem. "This very place lies in significance from the Revolutionary War when it housed troops led by then General George Washington on the way to Valley Forge," explains Stuart K. These displays provide learning opportunities appropriate for school-age children.
Short hiking trails: Hibernia County Park features family-appropriate paths under a mile in length. "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," notes Chelsea, who found the trails manageable with children. Trail maps available at the entrance indicate difficulty levels and estimated completion times.
Ranger programs: French Creek State Park offers weekend educational sessions during summer months. These free programs typically run 30-45 minutes and cover topics like local wildlife, conservation, and outdoor skills with interactive components for children 5-12.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For larger rigs, Brandywine Creek Campground offers appropriate spacing. "Spent several nights at Brandywine Creek campground in July, in the middle of a 6 week trip with our granddaughter. Quiet, well kept camp. Clean showers. Nice pool," reports Joel R. Most sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet, though corner spots often provide easier access.
Water hookup limitations: Many area campgrounds offer electric sites without water connections. "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. about Hibernia County Park. Fresh water fill stations typically exist near entrance areas.
Leveling requirements: French Creek campground sites often require additional adjustment. "The sites aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," notes one RVer. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended as many sites have slight grades.
Dump station access: Limited facilities mean planning ahead for waste management. "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," shares a camper regarding Hibernia County Park. Most commercial campgrounds charge $10-15 for dump station use without overnight stays.
