Situated in southeastern Pennsylvania's fertile Brandywine Valley, Kennett Square experiences moderate rainfall year-round with warm summers averaging 85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below 20°F. Visitors seeking glamping close to Kennett Square, Pennsylvania can access sites year-round, though most upscale accommodations close from November through March. Terrain is gently rolling with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, campers have direct access to the Brandywine River for fishing. "Fishing available!!! Big sell for me," notes Craig W., highlighting one of the main attractions. The site provides direct river access for anglers of all skill levels.
Explore Amish country: Lancaster County sits just 30-45 minutes from Kennett Square, offering authentic cultural experiences. "There is a lot to do in the surrounding area like visiting the historical sites in downtown Philadelphia, Valley Forge, or exploring Amish country," according to reviews. Many campgrounds organize guided tours to Amish farms and markets.
Canoeing the Brandywine: Seasonal canoe rentals are available directly at some campgrounds. "The river is usually very calm and good for a float," notes Jim N. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. Rental rates typically run $30-45 for half-day trips, with several access points along the river.
Hiking trails: French Creek State Park Campground features multiple hiking options. "There are a half dozen easy trails, the longest is around 2 miles," mentions a reviewer. The park maintains clearly marked paths suitable for families and casual hikers with minimal elevation gain.
What campers like
River views: Riverside sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offer unique perspectives. "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites," writes Phinon W.
Unique glamping options: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers distinctive accommodations beyond standard tents and RVs. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," reports Jen R. These specialty units often book 3-4 months in advance during peak season.
Clean facilities: Country Acres Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "This campground is probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at. The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," notes Stephanie S. The bathhouses feature individual shower rooms with hotel-quality fixtures.
Activities for children: Many sites cater specifically to families with organized events. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" says Karla R. Daily activity schedules typically run from 9am-8pm during summer months.
What you should know
Site sizes vary significantly: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger setups. "Let me just say I went one time and didn't go back. Luckily, we have a cassette toilet in our camper," notes one camper about bathroom facilities. Always check site dimensions before booking.
Weekend reservations fill quickly: Most glamping accommodations near Kennett Square book 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: The region experiences moderate rainfall throughout camping season. "We had a great time at this campground. We tented in loop D…the only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!" explains Katie M. about French Creek State Park.
Varying hookup options: Not all sites offer full amenities. "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," warns Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park. Always verify what utilities are available at your specific site.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Most family-oriented campgrounds include play areas. At Old Mill Stream Campground, "The grounds are clean and there's also a small playground and basketball court!" reports Ray L. Playgrounds typically remain open from 8am until dusk.
Swimming options: Pools provide relief during hot summer days. "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," shares Anna about Hibernia County Park. Most pools operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Child-friendly fishing: Dedicated areas for younger anglers exist at several parks. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes a reviewer about a designated fishing area for kids under 12 at Hibernia County Park. These areas often have easier access and higher catch rates.
Themed weekends: Special events occur regularly at family campgrounds. "We've been here a couple of times for their Halloween events. Absolutely amazing! We can't wait to go back!" says Jennifer A. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. Most themed weekends include costume contests, decorated sites, and organized activities.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging entrances or internal roads. "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road," cautions Matt S. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustments for comfortable parking. "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," notes Jennifer S. about certain sites at Hibernia County Park. Bring leveling blocks even when sites are advertised as level.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts overall experience. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," shares Galit P. about French Creek State Park's winter camping options. Most water systems are winterized from November through March.
