French Creek State Park offers traditional camping and luxury glamping options within 25 miles of Immaculata, Pennsylvania. The park spans 7,526 acres across Chester and Berks Counties, with elevations reaching 500 feet. Winter camping is available in selected loops, while summer visitors can enjoy swimming in the park's pool overlooking Hopewell Lake. Weather varies significantly by season with summer highs averaging 80°F and winter lows reaching 20°F.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: French Creek State Park Campground maintains several marked trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," notes one visitor about their fall camping experience.
Disc golf in wooded terrain: Boulder Woods Campground features an extensive disc golf course that attracts players of all skill levels. A camper mentioned, "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."
Water recreation options: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on a 200-acre freshwater pond. "Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking. There's an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp. Book early because it fills up fast!" advises a regular camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds near Immaculata feature well-spaced sites offering privacy. At French Creek State Park, "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. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean."
Cultural experiences: Lancaster-New Holland KOA provides views of Amish farmlands and cultural attractions. As one visitor describes, "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."
Clean facilities: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA maintains high standards for bathroom and shower facilities. A camper noted, "The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds," which is particularly important for those trying glamping near Immaculata for the first time or those seeking an elevated outdoor experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Hibernia County Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis except during special events. "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration. Hibernia annually hosts the (super fun!) 'Old Fiddlers Picnic' the second weekend in August. This is the only weekend that you are REQUIRED to call in to reserve."
Seasonal operating schedules: Several glamping sites near Immaculata operate on limited schedules. "Green Lane Park is a lovely park with several well marked trails for hiking. The campgrounds are clean but the sites are way too close together and there is not any privacy," explains one visitor. The campground typically operates from April through October.
Site characteristics vary widely: At Evansburg State Park, traditional and glamping campsites have different accessibility features. One visitor explained, "this hidden gem of a campground is beautiful. there is plenty of hiking trails. only downside is having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. some are further than others."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers extensive facilities for children. A camper shared, "We had a great time at this campground. There is a quarry close by so you could hear the trucks beeping and the noise from there but that was the only negative thing. Huge pond for fishing, miniature gold, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. Goats to pet and watch."
Children's fishing areas: Hibernia County Park maintains a dedicated children's pond. According to one visitor, "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp. Very quiet at night. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing."
Family-friendly activities: Many glamping options near Immaculata include organized events for children. At Philadelphia West Chester KOA, "They have activities like mini golf, pedal carts, jump pillow and a pool. Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float. The camp store is well stocked with essentials and there is a pizza place close by that delivers."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: For RVers seeking glamping near Immaculata, Pennsylvania, site dimensions are crucial. At Philadelphia West Chester KOA, one visitor noted, "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."
Hookup configurations: RV campers should verify hookup arrangements before arrival. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," explained one RVer about their experience at a campground in the region.
Leveling challenges: Many glamping sites require leveling equipment. At French Creek State Park, "We were in Loop C, which is the only loop that allows pets. I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop. At the bath house there are two sinks for washing dishes and a counter to set them on which is nice."