Campgrounds near Mohnton, Pennsylvania offer diverse terrain ranging from farmland valleys to forested hills at elevations between 250-800 feet above sea level. The region typically experiences moderate seasonal temperatures with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Several campgrounds remain open year-round despite the Northeastern climate, with most sites featuring gravel pads to prevent flooding during spring rain events.
What to do
Hiking trails: French Creek State Park Campground offers extensive hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. "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, walkeye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes one reviewer who stayed in the park.
Boulder exploration: Take the family to Blue Rocks Family Campground where you can climb on the unique glacier rock field. A camper shared their experience: "Great campground with lots of amenities. The staff was friendly, the store had essentials and more, and there was great hiking right from the grounds." The boulder field is a distinctive geological feature that's rare in the region.
Water recreation: Fish at multiple stocked ponds throughout the region. At Red Run Campground, "The Muddy Creek borders the campground on one side, which is a really nice backdrop. My daughter came up big with her first trout out of the Muddy Creek." Several campgrounds offer kayak and canoe rentals seasonally from April through October.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural boundaries between campsites at French Creek. "As long as you don't stay right across from the bath houses you will find ample shade at your site. There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors," reports a regular visitor.
Level camping pads: Hickory Run Family Camping Resort earns praise for well-maintained sites. "Great sites, pretty large. Comes with picnic table and fire ring with grill. Lots of fishing, hiking, and kayaking around. Recently redid the visitor center and it's beautiful," comments a camper who returned for a second stay.
Wildlife viewing: Campers mention spotting local wildlife including deer, various bird species, and occasionally foxes. "We were able to fish 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 a French Creek visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Mohnton require advance booking, especially for weekend stays from May through September. "Stayed over for one night in early December. 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 a visitor to French Creek during off-season.
Shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Lake-In-Wood Campground, one camper noted: "Very nice campground, well kept, paved roads, plenty to do." However, at other locations, campers report quarter-operated showers requiring 25¢ for approximately 5 minutes of hot water.
Seasonal operations: While some facilities remain open year-round, most campgrounds operate from April through early November. Check for off-season facilities as many parks shut off water to campsites during winter months while maintaining electricity. During peak summer months, expect higher occupancy, especially at campgrounds with swimming pools.
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with inclusive recreational amenities. At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat." Many sites offer free fishing ponds, playgrounds, and organized weekend activities.
Kid-friendly sites: Choose loops away from main roads for safety. "The bath house had individual bathrooms and showers. Each was pretty clean and spacious," notes a family who visited Spring Gulch, mentioning the convenience for families with small children.
Local attractions: Plan day trips to nearby Amish attractions. "Right in the heart of Amish Country, Lancaster, PA. Creek to wade, great fishing pond, hayrides and nice sized sites. Friendly staff also!" shares a visitor to Red Run Campground. Many locations are within 20-30 minutes of cultural sites, farm tours, and local markets.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research specific site dimensions before booking. At Dutch Cousin Campground, a visitor noted: "Very clean, quiet, nice level sites. Beautiful rentals are available. Affordable!" Several campgrounds feature pull-through sites, but tree coverage can make navigation challenging for larger rigs.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric and water, with fewer providing full sewer connections. "Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes," mentions a French Creek camper, highlighting amenities that supplement partial hookups.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall offer more availability and cooler temperatures. Many campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal campers during summer. "Weekend stay here and instead of leaving on Sunday, we booked another day. Great swimming pool, immaculately clean bathrooms and showers. Well wooded campground with friendly staff and guests," reports a visitor to Sun Valley Campground.
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