Tent campsites near Havertown, Pennsylvania offer varying degrees of privacy and amenities within a 45-minute drive. Most local camping areas sit at elevations between 100-400 feet above sea level in the Piedmont region, with mixed oak-hickory forests providing moderate shade during summer months when temperatures typically range from 75-85°F. Many sites require reservation at least 48 hours in advance during peak camping season from May through September.
What to do
Kayaking access: 1-minute walk from sites: At Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest, campers can launch kayaks directly adjacent to their tent sites. "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient," notes Anna D.
Disc golf: 18-hole course available: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park offers an extensive disc golf course that draws both casual and serious players. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," reports Benjamin C. The course winds through wooded and open areas with varied terrain.
Fishing opportunities: children's pond for ages 12 and under: Hibernia County Park maintains a dedicated fishing area specifically for younger anglers. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," explains John Z. Fishing licenses are required for adults, with trout stamps needed for specific species.
What campers like
Walk-in sites for more seclusion: Many campers prefer tent sites that require a short walk from parking areas. One camper at Boulder Ridge Farm praised the natural setting: "Great place to escape the stress of every day life. Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome."
Well-marked trail systems: Ridley Creek State Park maintains clearly marked paths for day hiking. "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.
Firewood availability: Unlike some campgrounds that restrict outside wood, Boulder Ridge Farm provides ample firewood for campers. The site features unique geological formations that create natural windbreaks for tents. "Plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls was awesome," notes Jnear139.
What you should know
Limited privacy at some sites: Deep Creek Campground features open site layouts with minimal separation between campers. A visitor observed: "The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you'll definitely be right up on your neighbors. The fire rings are big and frustrating, the fire sits on a lifted grate so you go through wood like crazy."
Group camping restrictions: Some parks like Fort Washington State Park Campground allow only organized group camping rather than individual sites. "Great historical park along Washington's route to Valley Forge - however, camping is group camping by reservation only, not nightly camping for individuals," explains Sue C.
Seasonal operations: Most tent sites near Havertown operate on limited schedules. Hibernia County Park charges approximately $15 per night but maintains weekend-only operations during certain months. Deep Creek Campground runs from April through October with all sites closing during winter months.
Tips for camping with families
Beginning campers: Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park offers an ideal setup for first-time campers with young children. "This place is great for first time campers. 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," advises David K.
Playground access: Several camping areas maintain dedicated play structures for children. Hibernia County Park features "Great playground" facilities according to John Z., located within walking distance of the tent loops. These areas provide alternatives when kids need breaks from hiking or other activities.
Insect protection: When camping at Goshen Pond, families should bring appropriate protection. "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks," warns Eldad K.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations for larger vehicles: Most tent campgrounds near Havertown cannot accommodate standard RVs. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. advises: "Though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper. They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Water access limitations: RV campers should arrive with full water tanks at most area campgrounds. "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. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'," notes Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
No dump stations: Plan for waste management when bringing an RV. "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," cautions the same reviewer about Hibernia facilities.
