Nestled in the rolling hills of Eastern Pennsylvania, camping near Mertztown offers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 400-800 feet above sea level. The region typically sees warm summers with temperatures averaging 80-85°F and moderate rainfall even during dry seasons. Most campgrounds in the area sit within Berks County's unique ecosystem where hardwood forests meet small creek systems.
What to Do
Disc golf courses: Blue Rocks Family Campground features an extensive disc golf course that attracts enthusiasts from around the region. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," notes camper Nick M., who appreciates the well-maintained course.
Boulder exploration: The natural rock formations at Blue Rocks Family Campground create a unique environment for climbing and exploring. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" shares Terri S., highlighting this distinctive feature not found at most other camping destinations.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water features provide fishing options within a short drive of Mertztown. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," explains Jen R. about the lakes at French Creek State Park.
Creek relaxation: Many campgrounds feature water access for peaceful enjoyment. "This campground is cozy, friendly, and has a sweet sounding creek that you camp near. It has many kid friendly amenities as well as being very relaxing," notes Becky M. about her stay at Allentown KOA, where wildlife viewing includes deer drinking from the stream.
What Campers Like
Spacious, level sites: Site quality varies across campgrounds, but many feature well-designed spaces. "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," reports Jen R. about her stay at French Creek State Park.
Privacy between sites: Boulder Woods Campground offers secluded spaces with natural buffers. "We did a weekend trip with just adults, tent camping. The tent sites are on dirt and not stone which we enjoyed, I hate stone under my tent," explains Karralee B., highlighting the campground's thoughtful site design.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses receive positive comments from many campers. "Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby. I'm a women in my thirties traveling alone and I felt very safe here," notes Galit P. about her off-season stay at French Creek State Park.
Unique accommodation options: Beyond traditional camping, luxury glamping in Mertztown, Pennsylvania area includes distinctive structures. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," explains Jen R. about the varied glamping options at Lake-In-Wood Campground.
What You Should Know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Mertztown limit their operations to warmer months. "I've been here a a couple different times and stayed in different sites each time and always had a great time!" mentions Christopher J. about French Creek State Park, one of the few places open year-round.
Water management challenges: Some sites struggle with drainage after rainfall. "We had a great Halloween weekend but we were down by creek so it was very muddy. Everything else about this campground was great!" explains Shannon C. about her experience at Tohickon Family Campground.
Campground policies vary: Rules about pets, alcohol, and generator use differ significantly between parks. "This is a State Park there is no alcohol allowed. The Park Rangers drive by regularly which is nice in case you are having any problems or just have general questions about the park," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer weekends. "The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you as it was unclear If checks were accepted," advises Galit P. about French Creek's system for off-season arrivals.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Allentown KOA offers multiple play areas for children. "2 different playgrounds and a pool that could use some updating. Staff was very helpful and accommodating," notes Brandon W., highlighting the family-friendly amenities despite some needed improvements.
Water activities: Pools and water features provide cooling options during summer months. "Loved being right next to the stream. No fish in sight though. Sites were huge! Hiking trail was about a mile up and back but cool," explains Kelly J. about the water access at Allentown KOA.
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds offer interactions with wildlife or farm animals. "Goats to pet and watch. There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others. Nice playground for the kids and a small arcade," describes Jen R. about Lake-In-Wood Campground's family amenities.
Activity scheduling: Weekends typically feature more organized events than weekdays. "Beyond the pool there wasn't much to do. Although, this might be due to the fact we visited during the week instead of the weekend where it seems they have a lot of events," explains Tori about her experience at Stonybrook RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature prepared sites requiring minimal setup. "Nice campground, very very level site. But beyond the pool there wasn't much to do," notes Tori about her stay at Stonybrook RV Resort, highlighting the ease of setup even while noting limited activities.
Hookup variations: Electric, water, and sewer access varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "We were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra! It worked out great as we were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra!" explains Jen R. about her fortunate site change at Blue Rocks Family Campground.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads requiring careful maneuvering. "The roads were very tight and you really had to watch how you drove through because of the trees. Our site was a drive-through but slanted," warns Mary C. about Lake-in-Wood Campground's layout challenges for larger RVs.
Winter camping options: Limited facilities remain open during colder months. "We stayed here during the winter January-February no activities going on. It does offer beautiful views especially covered in snow. Has a heated pool and playground, laundry facilities and a small game," explains Jamie S. about Stonybrook RV Resort's off-season amenities for glamping near Mertztown in colder months.
