French Creek State Park Campground near Macungie provides accommodations for various outdoor enthusiasts, though equestrian facilities remain limited. The park sits at approximately 700 feet elevation with rolling terrain characteristic of southeastern Pennsylvania's Piedmont region. Winter camping is available at certain sites with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F during colder months, requiring proper preparation for overnight stays.
What to do
Trail exploration with kids: At French Creek State Park Campground, multiple hiking paths offer varying difficulty levels. "There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," writes Katie M. The park maintains opportunities for day-use trail activities.
Lake activities: French Creek's two lakes provide water-based recreation. "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," notes Ellen C. Non-motorized boats are permitted on both lakes.
Frisbee golf course: The park offers disc golf through wooded terrain. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder," mentions Jen R., highlighting the added challenge of playing among natural obstacles.
Seasonal swimming: A swimming pool operates during summer months. "A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," reports Jen R. Access requires additional fees not included in campsite reservations.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Mountainview Campground offers secluded camping spots with natural buffers. "The sites were super spacious and private. There was enough room for a full overlanding setup, three vehicles, a hammock, two dogs and a two person tent with plenty of room to spare," says Paige H. Sites feature existing fire rings with cooking grates.
Water view campsites: Spruce Run Recreation Area provides lakefront options. "Our site was on the water and it was really nice. A duck visited us every morning," reports Jules T. Several sites offer direct reservoir views with varying levels of shade coverage.
Overnight horse opportunities: Though limited in the immediate Macungie area, some equestrian camping destinations exist within driving distance. Riders seeking horse-friendly facilities should contact specific locations about current policies. "Dogs are welcome, as long as you clean up after them," notes Katie M., which applies similarly to equine visitors at select properties.
Wildlife encounters: Campers report diverse animal sightings. "I've never heard so much wildlife there as I did here. Only shortly after we settled into our tent did we hear foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise," shares Christina H. from Mountainview Campground.
What you should know
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer partial or no utility connections. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities range from rustic to modern. "Showers were odd - one large stall but no separate dressing area so you have to be very careful so as not to get your stuff wet during the shower," notes Cheryl K. about French Creek State Park.
Reservation requirements: Some parks operate on reservation systems with varying advance booking windows. "We were able to book our sites online which was also a nice feature. The website is very easy to use," mentions Jen R. regarding French Creek's reservation process.
Alcohol policies: Regulations differ between state and private campgrounds. "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," explains Jen R. Always check specific rules before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Tuscarora State Park Campground offers designated play areas. "There is a playground for kids to play in that is well maintained," explains Tiffany K. Multiple state parks feature similar facilities with varying equipment.
Cabin options for beginners: Several parks offer alternative accommodations. "The yurts have 2 sets of bunk beds with one set having full size mattress on bottom. Yurts have heat and fans. Full size refrigerator, stove and microwave," shares Mandy F. about Tuscarora State Park's non-tent options.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on family needs. "We had sites #32 & #34 in Loop B and the kids had a lot of room to run and play between the two sites," Jen R. notes about French Creek. Consider proximity to bathrooms for families with young children.
Bring extra water: Limited access points may exist at more primitive locations. "The bath house in this loop was adequate and includes two dish washing stations outside. The showers had good pressure and hot water," shares Ellen C. about facilities at French Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Starlite Camping Resort offers RV-friendly options with some terrain considerations. "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed," reports Craig F. RVers should carry leveling equipment regardless.
Overhead clearance: Tree cover affects larger rigs. "If bringing your RV, the safest bet is to reserve a spot with no shade as the other spots often times have very low hanging tree limbs," warns Douglas P. about Spruce Run Recreation Area.
Loop selection for horse trailers: Equestrian camping near Macungie requires careful planning. Loop access points and turning radii vary between campgrounds. "Loop A to have very spacious, less rocky sites, however, there was little shrubbery between each site, making them less private than the sites in Loop C," observes Ellen C. about French Creek State Park.
Winter camping options: Year-round sites exist but with limited amenities. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" says Galit P. about French Creek State Park, one of few facilities open during colder months.
