Huntingdon Valley sits within the Delaware Valley watershed, with camping options spread across two states within a 30-mile radius. The area features a mix of hardwood forests and river valleys, with elevations ranging from 200-500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F, while spring and fall hover between 55-75°F, creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterways: At Wharton State Forest Atsion Recreation Area, you'll find extensive Pine Barrens trails suitable for all experience levels. "Wharton Forest has several campgrounds... We tent camped at Bodine campground in 2018. Our site was right on Wading River and we launched our kayaks right at the site!" noted one visitor. The forest includes multiple water access points for fishing and paddling.
Historical exploration: Washington Crossing State Park offers a unique blend of history and outdoor recreation. "Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history," explains one camper. Hiking paths run alongside historic structures, making it perfect for educational outings. Another reviewer mentioned, "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware!"
Rock formations: Boulder Woods and Ringing Rocks Park feature unusual geological formations worth exploring. "The rocks really do ring when hit with another rock," confirms one visitor to Ringing Rocks. Many campsites provide hammers for this unusual activity, making it an intriguing day trip from nearby accommodations.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Campers consistently praise the secluded feel at French Creek State Park Campground. "The campground is laid out well. There are three separate loops to camp at, Loop C is the only loop that allows pets, plus an area for large group camping which can accommodate anywhere from 30 to 60 people," notes one reviewer. Another camper highlighted: "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other."
Year-round options: Evansburg State Park Campground remains open during winter months for hardy campers seeking solitude. "I've spent countless hours hiking and fishing in Evansburg," states one regular visitor. "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."
Family amenities: Campers appreciate the organized activities at many local campgrounds. "This is a great place to take the kids for a night or two of lovely moderate hiking and outdoor experience," one visitor noted about local options. Many sites offer playground equipment, scheduled events, and family-friendly trails.
What you should know
Tent site conditions: Tent camping near Huntingdon Valley can present some challenges. One camper at Tohickon Family Campground noted: "We stayed here in our RV. It was the closest campground to Philly so we called a Lyft to get us into the city. The staff was super friendly and helpful." However, tent sites often receive mixed reviews: "Don't come if you're in a tent and it has been or will rain. It becomes flooded or turns into a mud pit."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds within 30 miles require advance booking, especially during peak season (May-September). Several parks have specific check-in windows, typically between 2-8pm, with quiet hours starting at 10pm.
Alcohol regulations: State parks prohibit alcohol consumption, while private campgrounds generally allow it with reasonable behavior. "That's NJ. Everything is against the rules," complained one camper about state park restrictions. Always check individual campground policies before arriving.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers extensive family facilities. "The staff was very friendly and the tents were more glamorous than we had tried before, but definitely had a good combination of woodsy and comfort," reports one visitor. Another noted: "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more."
Swimming options: Multiple glamping locations close to Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania feature pools or lake swimming during summer months. Hours typically run 10am-7pm, with some locations requiring swim bands (usually $3-5 per person).
Kid-friendly hikes: Select trails under 2 miles with minimal elevation change for younger children. "Lots of tree cover running along a small running creek," notes one visitor describing Evansburg State Park, making it suitable for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer full hookups but with varying amperage options. "Site is good with good showers and laundry," reports one RVer staying at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. Be aware that some sites require longer hose and electric connections than standard.
Site leveling: French Creek's design helps with this common RV challenge. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," notes a camper. Older campgrounds may require more leveling blocks, so come prepared with a complete set.
Off-season advantages: Several campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced rates during spring and fall. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" shared one winter camper at French Creek, which offers glamping yurts that stay comfortable even in cooler weather.
