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Best Campgrounds near West Chester, PA

919 Reviews

Campgrounds near West Chester, Pennsylvania range from state parks to private facilities, with both developed and primitive options available throughout the region. French Creek State Park Campground, located about 15 miles northwest of West Chester, offers tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and yurts with various hookup options. The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA in Coatesville provides similar accommodation types with additional amenities such as electric and water hookups. Hibernia County Park and Ridley Creek State Park round out the public land options, while several private campgrounds extend the variety of camping experiences in Chester County and surrounding areas.

Road access to most campgrounds is generally good, though some sites require navigation along narrow, winding roads through the Pennsylvania countryside. "This is a nice KOA not too far from downtown Philly. The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy," noted one camper about the Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. The camping season typically runs from April through October or November for most facilities, though some remain open year-round. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when facilities reach capacity. Many campgrounds in the region are situated along waterways like the Brandywine River, which can occasionally lead to muddy conditions after rainfall.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at the Philadelphia-West Chester KOA along the Brandywine River. Campers report these sites offer scenic views but note they can get muddy during wet weather. The terrain throughout the region features rolling hills with mixed forest cover providing natural shade at many campgrounds. Several visitors mentioned that facilities are generally well-maintained with clean bathrooms and showers. As one reviewer noted, "We had a scenic site along the Brandywine River. We had a great couple of families stay next to us and our kids made quick friends with theirs." Group campsites at Ridley Creek State Park receive praise for their accessibility and well-marked hiking trails, making them popular for family outings and first-time campers. Most campgrounds in the area provide fire rings, picnic tables, and basic amenities, with premium sites at some locations offering upgraded features like paved patios and special fire pits.

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Best Camping Sites Near West Chester, Pennsylvania (122)

    1. French Creek State Park Campground

    80 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    2. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "Stayed here for a weekend checking out west Chester. Nice playground and jump pad for kids. Nice camp store. Only downside was walnuts loudly hitting our roof at night!"

    "West Chester KOA This is a really nice KOA not too far from downtown Philly."

    3. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 892-3900

    $57 / night

    "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! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."

    "We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back"

    4. Hibernia County Park

    8 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 383-3812

    $15 - $50 / night

    "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the “sites” are smaller and it's more open. It is popular with group tenters."

    "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites."

    5. Brandywine Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 942-9950

    "Girlfriend and I stayed here while we visited nearby Longwood Gardens. The tent sites are spacious and they all border the creek which is a nice sound at night, as well as a good morning view."

    "Close to Valley Forge military park, and convenient to Philadelphia by train."

    6. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    "The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."

    7. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 423-6677

    "They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."

    "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"

    8. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

    9. Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    16 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Site next to us had a pipe break, they had a maintenance crew come out immediately and fix it. Amish stores/attractions close by for some entertainment also."

    "Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice."

    10. Lancaster-New Holland KOA

    12 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 354-7926

    "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark. "

    "Not too close to each other. Has a great view of the valley and Amish farms. Everyone has been very friendly. No pool but the kids seem to enjoy the playground."

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Recent Camping Photos near West Chester, PA

300 Photos of 122 West Chester Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near West Chester, PA

919 Reviews of 122 West Chester Campgrounds

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Dog owners read!

    There’s four loops. All connected A through D. We just needed a place to park and sleep so I got D011. Got there at 11pm and the D loop says no pets allowed. Not sure why when they are at every other loop but we had no where else to go and the area is pretty far off from anywhere else so the ol lab stayed in the camper. The bathrooms are tile and really nice with showers. And it was really quiet and chilly so a nice fall camp site. Just know ahead of time if you’re a dog owner!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Great place to stay!

    This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff. Our site was asphalt, that was a treat, tho not all of them were...

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    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. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • R
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Wonderful campground!

    Great camping, great hiking, pretty close to stores if you need anything. Staff is incredible!! Very polite, helpful, and just all around awesome People!!! They make sure your stay is exactly what you’d want it to be.. getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back. Overall very impressed!! They even were able To get us in very last minute WITH full hook ups for my trailer!!!!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

Guide to West Chester

Camping near West Chester, PA, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Many campgrounds, like French Creek State Park Campground, have great trails. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun. It's a great place to camp and enjoy downtime!"
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Elk Neck State Park Campground is a good choice. A visitor shared, "The Susquehanna river is full of every kind of fish imaginable!"
  • Exploring Local Attractions: Campgrounds like Hersheypark Camping Resort are close to attractions. One camper noted, "The trolley was a great addition to getting to and from the Hershey attractions."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Blue Rocks Family Campground. A reviewer said, "Very level and spaced apart from neighbor if you pick the right spots."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds are a hit. One visitor at Lums Pond State Park Campground mentioned, "Great bath houses, always super clean."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. A parent at Turkey Swamp Park said, "There's a nice playground in the campground."

What you should know:

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds, like Elk Neck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper noted, "NO alcohol allowed" which is important to keep in mind.
  • Site Availability: Campgrounds like Hershey RV and Camping Resort operate on a first-come, first-served basis. One camper expressed frustration, saying, "This campground does not reserve your site."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A visitor at Susquehanna State Park Campground mentioned, "There was quite a bit of poison ivy though and we had to keep the dogs on tight leashes."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. A parent at Blue Rocks Family Campground said, "The playground was great. Lots of activities."
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort mentioned, "The store has just about anything you would need while visiting."
  • Keep an Eye on the Weather: Be prepared for changing conditions. A visitor at Round Valley State Park Campground noted, "The hike in was a tough one! Weather was 95 and sunny on the hike in."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hershey RV and Camping Resort said, "The sites are so tight I could almost touch my neighbor's RV."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground appreciated, "Full hookups on all sites."
  • Be Ready for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have limited space. A visitor at Hersheypark Camping Resort mentioned, "The ONLY good thing this RV park has going is the Hershey park bus that runs all day back and forth."

Camping near West Chester, PA, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the specific campground rules and amenities before you go!

Frequently Asked Questions

What weekend camping trip options are available near West Chester?

The West Chester area offers diverse weekend camping experiences within easy driving distance. Pequea Creek Campground provides a picturesque setting with large, tree-covered spots, river tubing nearby, and proximity to Lancaster's covered bridges and shopping. For those seeking a unique experience in Amish country, Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country is worth considering. Other weekend options include French Creek State Park for hiking enthusiasts, Blue Rocks Family Campground for those who enjoy woodland settings, and Brandywine Creek Campground for water activities. Most locations are within a 30-45 minute drive from West Chester, making them ideal for quick weekend getaways without extensive travel time.

Where is the West Chester KOA located and what camping options does it offer?

Philadelphia-West Chester KOA is located in Coatesville, PA, nestled in the rolling hills of the Pennsylvania countryside. The campground is situated in a beautiful rural setting with narrow, windy access roads. Despite being called West Chester KOA, it's positioned to provide convenient access to both West Chester and Philadelphia. The KOA offers various camping options including back-in patio sites, pull-through RV sites, and tent camping areas. Amenities include a playground, jump pad for kids, and a well-stocked camp store. The campground is family-friendly with organized activities, particularly during holiday weekends like Memorial Day. While sites are well-maintained, they can be somewhat close together, offering limited privacy.

What amenities and swimming facilities are available at campgrounds near West Chester?

Campgrounds near West Chester offer a range of water-based amenities. Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park features swimming facilities as its name suggests. Lums Pond State Park Campground offers water access for boating and swimming. Many area campgrounds provide additional amenities like playgrounds, camp stores, and organized activities such as music bingo. Several locations have modern bathroom facilities with hot showers and flush toilets. For those seeking more extensive water recreation, campgrounds near the Brandywine Creek offer tubing and fishing opportunities. Most swimming facilities are seasonal, typically operating from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend, with some extending their season depending on weather conditions.

How much does it cost to stay at campgrounds in the West Chester area?

Camping costs in the West Chester area vary by site type and amenities. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, back-in patio sites run around $135/night, which is on the higher end but includes well-maintained facilities. For more budget-friendly options, Hibernia County Park offers sites at lower rates. Prices typically increase during holiday weekends and peak summer months. Most campgrounds require a two-night minimum stay on weekends, and many charge additional fees for extra vehicles, pets, or premium amenities. Reservation fees and deposits are standard at most locations, with cancellation policies varying by campground.

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