Narvon, Pennsylvania sits at approximately 700 feet above sea level in eastern Lancaster County, where the Welsh Mountains meet the Pennsylvania Piedmont region. The area receives around 45 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush surroundings that transition between hardwood forests and agricultural fields. Most campsites near Narvon are situated within 30 minutes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, allowing relatively easy access for weekend camping trips.
What to Do
Fishing at lakes and streams: French Creek State Park Campground features two lakes with multiple fish species. "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 ranger Jen R.
Hiking on marked trails: French Creek State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks for day hikes. "There are many trails for walking, hiking or biking as well! 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," mentions one visitor.
Historical site exploration: The area connects visitors to Pennsylvania's industrial past. "Close by there is Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and St. Peter's Village with shops and restaurants and hiking trails as well," reports a regular camper.
What Campers Like
Level sites for easy setup: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained sites at Lake-In-Wood Campground. "Very nice and clean campground. Store, pool and cafe. Firewood and minature golf available. Some tight spots to navigate through. Nice fishing in the lake," notes Edward M.
Campgrounds with Amish country views: The landscape offers distinctive cultural experiences. "Best kept secret in the area. Peaceful, beautiful valley views of Amish country," says Angie G. about Lancaster-New Holland KOA.
Unique rental accommodations: Beyond standard camping, some facilities offer specialty lodging. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," mentions Jen R. about the creative options at Lake-In-Wood Campground.
What You Should Know
Cleanliness varies by location: Campground maintenance differs significantly across facilities. "This campground is probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at. The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," writes Stephanie S. about Country Acres Campground.
Reservation timing requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "You can now reserve online at: https://www.chesco.org/1067/Camping," notes Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Seasonal considerations: While most campgrounds operate spring through fall, some remain open year-round. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," shares Galit P. about winter camping at French Creek State Park.
Noise variations: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others. "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot. The smell was not present the first day or so we were there and we enjoyed sitting outside in the afternoon, but when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside during the rest of our visit," reports Nancy W. about Old Mill Stream Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Beacon Hill Camping offers convenient amenities for families. "The owners were nice and the grounds are pretty. Our space was really level and wide. Internet was ok and they ask folks to not stream. Minutes from downtown Intercourse, Pa," explains Kimberly M.
Swimming options: Water activities provide summer relief. "This campground is amazing. I brought my family (4 children - 8 yrs, 6 yrs, 2 yrs, 3 months) and we had a great week. The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself and loved it," shares Megan T.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Dedicated fishing areas accommodate younger anglers. "The lake is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails. Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill. Plenty of firewood to be found. Great for families. The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," explains Anna about Hibernia County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra preparation for RVs. "Most of the campsite options are fairly level, but are very rocky, so this is something to keep in mind if you are tent camping. We have heavy duty solid steel pegs and still had trouble pegging everything down," warns Phinon W. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground.
RV site selection strategy: Old Mill Stream Campground offers specific advantages for larger rigs. "The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp," advises Chuck W.
Seasonal site options: For frequent visitors, some campgrounds offer extended stays. "By far, the friendliest campground we have visited! Most of the sites are seasonal and we were placed amongst the seasonals. We immediately had multiple people offer insight as to how best approach the site," writes Becca U. about Sun Valley Campground.
Ranger
