Mont Clare sits in the rolling hills of southeastern Pennsylvania where the Schuylkill River cuts through Chester County. The area's elevation ranges from 150 to 400 feet above sea level, creating varied camping environments from riverside sites to wooded hillsides. The climate supports camping from April through October, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85°F during the day and dropping to comfortable 60s at night.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: French Creek State Park Campground offers access to both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake with species including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, and muskellunge. "Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes a camper at French Creek State Park Campground.
Creek exploration: Boulder Woods Campground provides close proximity to local waterways. "Great disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," mentions a visitor who appreciates the combination of activities available within a short distance of the campsites.
Disc golf courses: Enthusiasts can find challenging courses at Boulder Woods Campground. One visitor shared their experience: "The name says it all. It has boulders and woods. They also have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf."
Hiking varied trail systems: The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA connects to local trails and natural areas. A camper noted, "We had a lovely time. Quiet, peaceful, great trails which can be hiked from campground."
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: At French Creek State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the thoughtful site design. "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."
Kid-friendly amenities: Boulder Woods Campground receives praise for its family focus. "This is a great campground. Bill and Kate are friendly and helpful. They have so much to do for kids!!" says one satisfied camper who returns regularly.
Clean facilities: The maintenance of bathhouses and shower areas matters significantly to campers. A visitor to Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park mentioned, "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails."
Riverside camping: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers premium sites along the Brandywine River. "The river sites are great but can get muddy and there is a big hill to get up and out. The pool is nice, they have a store and a playground," shares a regular visitor.
What you should know
Reservation windows: Most glamping in Mont Clare, Pennsylvania requires booking well in advance. Sites at Hibernia County Park use a different system: "This campground is a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by."
Seasonal variations: Some facilities close during winter months. A camper at French Creek noted, "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."
Site layout considerations: At Deep Creek Campground, "The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them. It's a shame because it's a beautiful park in a beautiful area."
Pet policies differ: When planning luxury tent camping near Mont Clare, check which loops allow pets. At French Creek State Park, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Boulder Woods, families appreciate that "They have a very large golf disc course and they seem to have tournaments. They do allow golf carts we saw gas and powered. Nice and quiet."
Swimming options: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers varied water recreation. "Huge pond for fishing, miniature gold, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. Goats to pet and watch," shares a family who visited with children.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites enhance camping experiences. Hibernia County Park provides proximity to local history. "There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends," notes a regular visitor who appreciates combining outdoor recreation with educational opportunities.
Fishing for kids: Many sites offer stocked ponds. A parent at Hibernia County Park shared, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," making it perfect for young anglers learning the sport.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: At Tohickon Family Campground, RVers should be prepared for potential access issues. "If you Have A Big rig it can Be A little squish," warns a camper who visits regularly despite the tight quarters.
Hookup availability: French Creek State Park Campground provides varied options for RV campers. "We were in the D loop which is rustic with no hookups. Quiet, very few people mid-week. Spacious sites."
Seasonal restrictions: Some luxury tent camping areas and RV sites near Mont Clare have age restrictions. At Boulder Woods, a visitor noted their disappointment: "They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer. Ours is 13."
Level sites matter: Lake-In-Wood Campground can present challenges for larger vehicles. "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."
