Lyndell, Pennsylvania sits at an elevation of 410 feet in the rolling hills of Chester County, with the French Creek watershed providing natural water features throughout the region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 74-86°F, making May through October the primary glamping season. Weather can change rapidly in this region, particularly during spring and fall transition periods.
What to do
Hiking trails at Hibernia County Park: Access multiple easy-to-moderate difficulty trails directly from camping areas. "There are a half dozen easy trails, the longest is around 2 miles, spend time on Chamber's Lake (no swimming, or gas powered motors allowed), spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire," notes one visitor at Hibernia County Park.
Fishing opportunities: Fish for multiple species at the two lakes in French Creek State Park. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," explains a reviewer.
Brandywine Creek activities: Enjoy floating and paddling along this scenic waterway near Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. "The river sites are great but can get muddy and there is a big hill to get up and out. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," reports a camper who visits frequently.
What campers like
Unique accommodations: The distinctive lodging options at Lake-In-Wood Campground provide glamping experiences beyond standard tent or RV camping. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," shares one visitor who enjoyed the variety.
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the area design sites with natural separation. At Hibernia County Park, "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp."
Amish countryside views: The pastoral scenery makes glamping in Lyndell's surrounding areas particularly special. A visitor at Lancaster-New Holland KOA describes the setting: "Peaceful, beautiful valley views of Amish country. Love, love, love this place. Great KOA in all aspects: location, views, friendly, cleanliness."
What you should know
Site layout considerations: Many campgrounds offer varied site designs for different camping styles. "We stayed in Loop C, which is the only dog friendly loop in the campground, on sites 35, 37, 39, & 40. Thankfully, a short walk to the bathroom facilities for us tent campers," reports a visitor at French Creek State Park.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Weekends fill quickly, especially during peak summer months. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises a camper at Lums Pond State Park, which applies to most glamping sites near Lyndell during prime season.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality and maintenance of facilities differs between campgrounds. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," notes one camper about Lums Pond, while others report more basic amenities elsewhere.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Several campgrounds offer kid-friendly water features. At Jellystone Park™ Quarryville, "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," according to one family's experience.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with updated play equipment. "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," says a visitor to French Creek State Park.
Budget-friendly options: Some county parks offer economical glamping opportunities. At Hibernia County Park, one parent notes, "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. Super great price at $15/night as well."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose sites carefully if traveling with big RVs or fifth wheels. At Country Acres Campground, one camper reports, "Inaugural trip with travel trailer. Pull-Thru site with all hookups in good working order. Site felt spacious with a nice grass strip."
Utility placement: Check hookup locations before setting up. A camper notes about one park, "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."
Level sites assessment: Research which campgrounds offer naturally level sites. "The site was perfectly level and had a large gravel patio area and a large shade tree behind us. The site was plenty long for our 45' RV and tow car," reports one RVer about their experience at Old Mill Stream Campground.
