Camping options near Narberth, Pennsylvania range from basic tent sites to full-service campgrounds within a 30-mile radius of this Montgomery County borough. Located in the Schuylkill River watershed at about 400 feet elevation, the area experiences moderate seasonal temperature variations with summer averages in the mid-80s°F. Winter camping is limited as many campgrounds, including Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, close from December through March due to the region's frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: French Creek State Park offers fishing in both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake with several warm-water fish species. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes a reviewer who found plenty of fishing opportunities throughout the French Creek State Park Campground.
Hawk watching at observation decks: The elevated terrain provides excellent bird watching opportunities, especially at Fort Washington State Park. "You'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn, wherein you can view their splendor from the wonderfully built Observation Deck," explains one visitor to Fort Washington State Park Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several water bodies in the area support paddling activities with boat rentals available seasonally. "This campground is right on a creek with availability to use canoes," shares a camper at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, highlighting water recreation options within easy reach of camping areas.
Creek exploration: Multiple park trails follow waterways with opportunities for exploration. "Great place to creek hike, nice for horses, we did get a lot of ticks, but not deer ticks, thankfully," advises a visitor to Evansburg State Park, suggesting protective clothing for any creek adventures.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature natural buffers between campsites for privacy. "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," explains a repeat visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Post-hike relaxation spots: Dedicated picnic areas with amenities near trail endings provide rest areas. "There is also a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon," shares a camper who appreciated the facilities at French Creek State Park.
Seasonal wildlife viewing: The parks offer changing wildlife observation opportunities throughout the year. "If you call yourself a bird watcher, you'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn," notes a visitor to Fort Washington State Park, listing species including "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles."
Well-marked hiking trails: Clear trail markings make navigation easier for visitors. "Well marked trails great for hiking. Pet friendly! We love walking here with our dog. There are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in!" shares an enthusiast at Ridley Creek State Park.
What you should know
Campground access restrictions: Several parks have specific limitations on who can camp. "Restricted to only residents. Looks nice, if you can actually stay here," warns a disappointed traveler about Alverthorpe Private Park, indicating the need to check reservation requirements before planning a trip.
Limited individual camping options: Many parks focus on group facilities rather than individual sites. "Love Ridley and their trails. However, there is only group tenting here. I would stay over in a heartbeat though as I'm always here!" explains a regular visitor to Ridley Creek State Park.
Seasonal closures affect most campgrounds: Operating seasons vary widely across the region. "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely," shares a winter camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, one of the few year-round options.
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Facilities range from modern to minimal across different parks. "Bathrooms were just okay. Muddy floors - don't know how often floors are cleaned. 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," reports a visitor to French Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access considerations: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly play areas with varying features. "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground (September 2020). There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages. They also have pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool," reports a family who visited Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Family-friendly tent sites: Some campgrounds offer better tent camping options for families with children. "We tented in loop D…the only bad part was that it was kind of hard to find a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed! There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," shares a family camper at French Creek State Park.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several locations offer water recreation suitable for children of various ages. "We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely! There is also a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon," notes a parent who visited French Creek State Park with children.
Group camping potential: Multiple parks can accommodate larger family gatherings with dedicated facilities. "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. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," explains a family visitor to French Creek State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campsites require minimal adjustment for RV leveling. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," notes an RVer at French Creek State Park, reducing setup time for new arrivals.
Size limitations at certain parks: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs effectively. "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road," warns a visitor to Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, advising, "Don't stay in this site in a big motorhome. The trailers/5th wheels seem better because they 'bend' at the hitch."
Off-season camping options: Limited winter camping facilities exist, but with proper planning are possible. "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 as it was unclear If checks were accepted," advises a winter camper at French Creek State Park.
Hookup availability varies: Not all parks offer full hookups or consistent services. "There is not a camp store where it is available for purchase. You can find some for sale from the neighboring homes but it's not always a guarantee," explains a camper at French Creek about firewood availability, suggesting self-sufficiency for certain supplies.
