French Creek State Park Campground offers glamping near Mohnton, Pennsylvania, set within 7,730 acres of forests at an elevation of 700 feet. The park maintains several yurts across different camping loops, with some sites specially designated for pets in Loop C. Weather in the region varies dramatically with temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 90°F in summer, requiring campers to prepare for seasonal conditions.
What to do
Hiking and exploring: French Creek State Park features numerous trails suitable for all skill levels. "There is a lot of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained. We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely!" shares Katie M. about French Creek State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake contain diverse fish species for anglers to enjoy. "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," notes Jen R. from French Creek State Park Campground.
Outdoor activities: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers unique geological features to explore. "This place really has something for everyone! Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff. The best part was hiking in the boulder field!" says Gayle B. The campground sits adjacent to an impressive glacier rock field that makes for interesting exploration.
What campers like
Private campsites: Campers appreciate the spacing between sites at many campgrounds. "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," writes Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Clean facilities: Lancaster-New Holland KOA earns high marks for maintenance. "The campground is very clean, nice spots with gravel and nice views. The store was stocked well with essentials, and the women running the store was very helpful and friendly," reports Nicole S. The campground is noted for being "peaceful, serene, and a little slice of heaven with super clean bathrooms" according to Angie G.
Amish country views: Many glamping options near Mohnton offer views of local Amish farms. "Great no frills place to relax. The daily views of fields, farmers plowing with horses or the buggys going by was great," shares April L. about Lancaster-New Holland KOA. These cultural sights add a unique dimension to the camping experience.
What you should know
Winter camping considerations: Some campgrounds remain open year-round, requiring proper preparation. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! 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," advises Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
Campground elevation issues: Starlite Camping Resort sits on hilly terrain which affects site selection. "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed," explains Craig F. The higher elevation provides "the best view we have seen" according to Elizabeth L.
Pet policies vary: Different campgrounds have specific loops or areas for pets. At French Creek, "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets. I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop," reports Jen R.
Tips for camping with families
Activity access: Old Mill Stream Campground offers convenient access to local attractions. "Clean campground with great access to Dutch Wonderland, outlets and other Lancaster County tourist attractions. Nice creek to fish in," notes William W. The campground sits directly adjacent to Dutch Wonderland amusement park.
Water features: Kids enjoy water activities at multiple campgrounds. "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," writes Ellen C. about French Creek State Park.
On-site recreation: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers unique outdoor play areas. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. Primitive but fun!" says Terri S. The natural boulder field creates a distinctive playground alternative.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Finding level RV sites can be challenging at some locations. "We had sites #32 & #34 in Loop B and the kids had a lot of room to run and play between the two sites. All sites have a flat paved area for your camper. If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV," advises Jen R. about Hickory Run Family Camping Resort.
Full hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "We were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra!" shares Jen R. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. For RVers seeking luxury glamping near Mohnton, the site options range from basic electric to complete hookups.
Navigational challenges: Some campgrounds have tight roads for larger rigs. "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," cautions Mary C. about Lake-In-Wood Campground, while Old Mill Stream has "plenty of room to maneuver a big rig" according to Chuck W.
