Camping opportunities near Bernville, Pennsylvania span approximately 2,500 acres of mixed hardwood forests and farmland terrain. The region sits at elevations ranging from 400-600 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Most campsites in this area operate in the Appalachian Mountain foothills, creating distinct microclimates where evening temperatures can drop 15-20 degrees below daytime highs.
What to do
**Hiking trails: French Creek State Park offers multiple difficulty levels of hiking paths. "There are lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," reports Katie M. The park maintains 35+ miles of marked trails ranging from easy half-mile loops to challenging 6-mile routes.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide stocked fishing ponds or lake access. At Locust Lake State Park Campground, "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," one camper notes. The park contains multiple species including northern pike, bass, and panfish with no license required for children under 16.
Boulder exploration: Blue Rocks Family Campground features a unique natural formation. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time," shares Terri S. The glacier rock field provides safe climbing opportunities for all ages with some formations reaching 15-20 feet high.
Outdoor swimming: Most larger campgrounds maintain seasonal pool facilities. At Mountain Springs Camping Resort, "Super nice and friendly staff. Large size pool for the bigger folks and a walk in pool for the toddlers," says Ray B. Pool access typically costs $3-5 per person with most facilities open 10am-8pm during peak season.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural site separation. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes Jen R. Most wooded sites feature 30-50 feet between camping areas with natural brush or tree screening.
Accessible water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation beyond swimming. "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," shares Katie M. about French Creek State Park.
Unique accommodations: Beyond traditional tent and RV sites, specialty lodging options exist. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," explains one visitor to Lake-In-Wood Campground. Specialty accommodations typically cost $85-150 per night with most requiring 2-night minimum stays.
On-site conveniences: Many campgrounds maintain well-stocked camp stores. At Starlite Camping Resort, "The camp store is well stocked and also serves hand-dipped ice cream," reports Craig F. Most stores operate 8am-7pm during peak season with emergency supplies available after hours.
What you should know
Site variability: Terrain and site quality varies significantly within the same campground. "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," notes Ranger Jen about French Creek's pet-friendly Loop C. Request detailed site maps when booking as terrain can change drastically between adjacent loops.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences variable weather patterns. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" shares Galit P. about winter camping at French Creek. Pack layers as temperature swings of 30°F within 24 hours aren't uncommon.
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. At Appalachian Camping Resort, "We started our trip Friday afternoon, we pulled into the campground and they had a table set up outside to 'check in.' We did not wait in a mile long line to park and go into the office," explains one visitor. Reserve sites 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends and 1-2 months for spring/fall dates.
Seasonal operation: Many facilities close or reduce services in winter. "I've been here a couple different times and stayed in different sites each time and always had a great time!" reports Christopher J. about French Creek State Park, which maintains year-round camping while many private campgrounds close October-April.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Look for campsites near play areas for convenience. At Hickory Run Family Camping Resort, "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line. All kids and adults agreed it was the most fun!" details one visitor. Most play areas close at dusk with quiet hours starting at 9pm.
Junior ranger programs: Several state parks offer educational opportunities. "We loved camping here. My kids went fishing and every cast they caught a fish, some were small... but hey the kids had fun," shares Michelle E. about Hickory Run. Programs typically run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day at no additional cost.
Site selection for families: Certain camping areas cater better to children. "We had sites #32 & #34 in Loop B and the kids had a lot of room to run and play between the two sites," notes one French Creek visitor. Corner sites or those at loop ends typically provide 25-50% more play space than interior sites.
Activity scheduling: Most campgrounds organize weekend events. "There was bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids, a dj Saturday night and a live band Sunday night," describes Melissa Y. about Appalachian Camping Resort. Activity schedules are typically posted weekly with most requiring pre-registration.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room," advises one French Creek camper. Most state parks accommodate RVs up to 40 feet while private campgrounds often handle 45+ foot rigs.
Hookup variations: Water and electric access varies significantly. At Shady Oak Campground, "Full hookups and some grassy sites without sewer with more of a camping park feel. I preferred and stayed at the later. Full hookup sites were mostly gravel," explains Dominick L. Electric service ranges from 20-50 amp with many state parks offering electric-only sites.
Leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the region requires preparation. "Our site was a drive-through but slanted. There wasn't much room on our site to do anything else. The fire ring was about all the room allowed," shares Mary C. about Lake-In-Wood Campground. Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites have slopes of 3-6 inches across standard pad lengths.
Seasonal site options: Many campgrounds offer long-term arrangements. "We have been camping at Starlite with Dave and family for 15+ years. The campground is in a great location with easy access to Lancaster, Hershey and many other places to explore," notes Elizabeth L. Seasonal rates typically run $2,000-3,500 for the full April-October camping season depending on amenities.
