Several campgrounds near Kennett Square, Pennsylvania welcome pets with varying amenities and restrictions. The region sits in the Brandywine Valley at around 400 feet elevation with humid summer temperatures averaging 85°F and cooler fall nights dropping to the 40s. Many campgrounds in this area remain open from April through October with limited wintertime availability.
What to do
Hiking trails with water access: At Ridley Creek State Park, "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!" The park offers multiple interconnected paths for exercise with your pets.
Lighthouse exploration: Elk Neck State Park provides access to Turkey Point Lighthouse via a designated hiking trail. "We enjoyed hiking the Beaver Marsh Trail. From our campsite we had to drive to a trail head but there were a few sights that had direct access. Also the lighthouse trail is a must. It is about a five minute drive to get to the trail though, but is worth it!"
Kayaking and fishing: French Creek State Park Campground offers two lakes for water activities. "We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely! There is also a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon." The lakes contain northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and panfish for fishing enthusiasts.
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Hibernia County Park offers a peaceful retreat according to campers. "Quiet. Occasional planned activities. Rented pavilions for reunions, birthdays, seasonal gatherings, etc." The park maintains a low-key atmosphere with minimal noise after dark.
Spacious camping sites: Many locations provide ample space between sites. 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." This makes setup easier and provides privacy during your stay.
Views of Amish countryside: Lancaster-New Holland KOA offers unique views of local farmland. "Beautiful valley views of Amish country." Another visitor noted it's "Peaceful, serene, and a little slice of heaven with super clean bathrooms and friendly host." The campground provides opportunities to watch local farmers working with horses in surrounding fields.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: While some parks offer modern facilities, others provide only basic amenities. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease." However, at Hibernia County Park, facilities are more rustic with "only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance."
Reservation timing matters: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book early because it fills up fast!" Weekends often require advance planning, especially at popular locations.
Site conditions can be challenging: Some camping areas present specific challenges. At Hibernia County Park, "The campground is ON the hiking trail so everyone doing the loop walks along the sites." Another camper noted at French Creek, "it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville offers extensive facilities for children. "Fun fun and more fun loads of activities for the kids! Breakfast with Yogi!" The campground includes multiple play areas and organized activities.
Fishing ponds for children: Several parks offer dedicated fishing areas for young anglers. One visitor at Hibernia County Park mentioned "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too."
Winter camping considerations: Limited options exist for cold-weather camping with children. One camper noted at French Creek State Park, "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." Winter camping requires additional preparation for comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, some visitors advise caution with larger vehicles: "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice." For Hibernia County Park, an RVer advised, "we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and 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."
Water access planning: When hookups aren't available, preparation is essential. "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'." Several campgrounds offer partial hookups requiring strategic water management.
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires preparation at many local campgrounds. "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix." Bringing additional leveling blocks helps ensure comfort during your stay.
