Glamping close to Jenkintown, Pennsylvania offers secluded outdoor retreats within 30 miles of city conveniences. The region sits at modest elevations of 200-500 feet, experiencing mild spring and fall temperatures that range from 50-75°F during prime camping season. The area features a mix of deciduous forests and rolling hills with several waterways for recreation, creating prime conditions for both rustic and upscale camping experiences.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Boulder Woods Campground maintains an extensive disc golf course popular with dedicated players. "The campground 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," noted one visitor who found the activity central to the campground's appeal.
Fishing opportunities: Wharton State Forest provides excellent fishing access with waterfront sites. "I always get site #8 and it has an amazing view of the lake. While camping at atsion family campground, you have free access to the recreation center (the beach and some trails)," shared a camper who appreciated the combination of recreation options.
History exploration: Washington Crossing State Park offers historical immersion alongside camping. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment," explained one visitor who enjoyed the educational aspect.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: French Creek State Park Campground offers well-separated glamping 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," reported a satisfied visitor who appreciated the campground layout.
Swimming options: Many glamping sites near Jenkintown feature pools and swimming areas. At Boulder Woods Campground, visitors noted, "We had a great time. Enjoyed a nice long weekend out of the city. Clean amenities. Will be coming back!" This straightforward feedback highlights the refreshing escape these facilities provide.
Proximity to Philadelphia: For those seeking glamping close to Jenkintown with easy city access, Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA provides an ideal location. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. The park is clean, quiet, full of families. The staff are friendly and welcoming. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily," noted a camper who found it perfect for visiting Philadelphia.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: While some glamping accommodations operate year-round, most have limited seasons. "We stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you as it was unclear If checks were accepted," shared a winter visitor to French Creek State Park.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. At Tohickon Valley County Park, "The restrooms were reasonable but not the best we've encountered. The shower did not look very appealing," according to one candid review.
Site privacy levels: Green Lane Park campsites lack separation. "The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them. It's a shame because it's a beautiful park in a beautiful area but even with it being so close to home, I'd never stay there because I like some privacy," observed one potential visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many glamping sites near Jenkintown feature dedicated children's areas. "There is a pool that is open Memorial Day- Labor Day. They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park," noted a family that stayed at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Playgrounds and recreation: Evansburg State Park Campground offers family-friendly trails. "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'," shared a parent who found the park perfect for young explorers.
Nature engagement: Several parks provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. At Wharton State Forest, families can "launch our kayaks right at the site! Our tent has a full view of the sky and at night it was like a planetarium as we admired the sky from our cots," described a camper who enjoyed the natural education opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Boulder Woods Campground accommodates large rigs but requires careful navigation. "The spots are tight to get into but the staff will offer to park your camper using your vehicle. I let them park mine and I'm really glad I did. It was super tight," advised an RV camper grateful for assistance.
Hookup availability: French Creek State Park offers various hookup options. "We stayed in the D loop which is rustic with no hookups. Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites. Bathrooms were just okay," shared an RV visitor who found the trade-off between amenities and solitude worthwhile.
Seasonal restrictions: Some glamping locations near Jenkintown have age restrictions for seasonal stays. At Boulder Woods, one visitor noted, "Three years ago, we fell in love with this campground. We knew we had to find an rv and become seasonals. Fast forward, we bought one, went to talk to them... They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer. Ours is 13. Very disappointed."
