RV camping options near Malvern, Pennsylvania cluster along the eastern edge of Lancaster County, where terrain transitions from suburban developments to rolling farmland. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 400-700 feet, experiencing humid summers with temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F and cool fall evenings dropping into the 50s. The region receives approximately 45 inches of rainfall annually, making site drainage an important consideration during spring and early summer stays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake-In-Wood Campground, a stocked fishing pond provides recreational angling for all ages. "Huge pond for fishing, miniature gold, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. Goats to pet and watch," notes reviewer Jen R., who visited with family.
Disc golf courses: Green Lane Park offers a well-regarded disc golf course alongside its other outdoor activities. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," reports Benjamin C., highlighting multiple recreational options within a single location.
Live entertainment: Weekend performances are common at Sun Valley Campground, particularly during summer months. "The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined," explains Scott J., a seasonal camper who appreciates the entertainment lineup.
Miniature golf: Several campgrounds maintain mini golf courses as family activities, though maintenance quality varies. "Mini golf was fun but need to be regreened….several holes needed maintenance," reports Beth B. about Spring Gulch's course, suggesting visitors check course conditions upon arrival.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out in camper reviews, particularly at Thousand Trails Circle M. "Super clean and nice people! We enjoyed everything and the people were friendly. Worth the trip!" mentions Nathan S., emphasizing both the cleanliness and staff quality.
Swimming options: Multiple pools provide swimming alternatives when river or lake swimming isn't preferred. "Nice indoor and outdoor pools! Cable TV isn't free, but I never use it anyway," writes Joe B. about Circle M, appreciating the year-round swimming capabilities regardless of weather.
Riverside sites: Lower camping areas along waterways offer natural cooling and recreational access. "The campground sits in the center of a horseshoe curve of the river, bring tubes and kayaks! We didn't know but went and bought a tube and spent the day on the river!" recommends Karla R., suggesting water equipment for optimal enjoyment.
Organized activities: Appalachian Camping Resort schedules regular events for various age groups. "The campground had numerous activities set up all throughout the day and there was something for everyone," says Melissa Y., who visited during Labor Day weekend when special events were planned.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the region creates leveling difficulties at several parks. "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice," mentions Beth B. about one campground, indicating the convenience of pull-through access despite grading issues.
Seasonal occupancy: Many campgrounds contain primarily long-term or seasonal campers. At Sun Valley Campground, one camper observed, "90% of the people here are full time," while another noted, "We were placed amongst the seasonals. We immediately had multiple people offer insight as to how best approach the site."
Highway noise: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park and others experience traffic noise from nearby roads. "There was also a fair amount of road noise at night," reports Ra F., indicating less peaceful sleep for light sleepers.
Buddy site configurations: Some sites place RVs unusually close together in shared arrangements. "The buddy site was very narrow and since our buddy arrived first we had no choice but to park farther down on the site to avoid our awnings touching," explains Melissa Y., suggesting travelers confirm site layouts when booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Appalachian Camping Resort offers extensive family programming. "There were bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids, a dj Saturday night and a live band Sunday night," lists Melissa Y., indicating the variety available during holiday weekends.
Rental accommodations: Unique lodging options provide alternatives to traditional camping. "The cabins available are primitive or have water and electric and bathhouses / restrooms are located in a few spots around the park," explains Phinon W., describing the basic amenities at certain cabin sites.
Pool schedules: Operating hours vary by season and day of week. "Staff was nice but not enough staffing to keep amenities like pool open after 5 during the week," notes Beth B., suggesting families plan afternoon swims during weekdays.
Playground proximity: Request sites near play areas for convenience with young children. "The playground was luckily right across from us up on the hill," mentions Jen R., appreciating the close access to recreation for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Robin Hill Campground offers varying site qualities across different sections. "This campground is called Robin HILL for a reason. You will get your exercise walking to the pond, pool, capstone or basketball courts," explains Jen R., suggesting guests consider terrain when selecting sites.
Electrical load planning: While 50-amp service is common, power quality varies between parks. "Low voltage throughout the campground," reports Mike J. about one location, indicating potential issues for high-electrical-demand RVs.
Dump station timing: Limited facilities can create congestion during peak checkout periods. "Only two dump stations for a pretty large park," notes Jen R. about one campground, suggesting RVers plan accordingly or leave earlier than checkout time to avoid delays.
Ground conditions: Soil saturation affects site usability after rainfall. "Sites are swampy if they've had rain! Took us over two hours to disconnect because of mushy, muddy site!" warns Linda F., indicating potential equipment challenges during wet periods.
