Camping near Newtown Square, Pennsylvania offers locations within a 30-mile radius that balance natural settings with access to Philadelphia. The area experiences mild springs, warm summers with average highs of 85°F, colorful autumns, and winter temperatures that can drop below freezing. Several campgrounds remain open year-round, while others close from November through March due to seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Creek exploration: Ridley Creek State Park offers multiple water access points for wading and exploration. "Beautiful area to hike along the creek was great. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park," notes Andrea R., highlighting the park's water features.
Bird watching: Fort Washington State Park Campground provides elevated observation decks for hawk watching during migration seasons. "If you are 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," shares Stuart K., who documented numerous species including "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles."
Water activities: Canoeing at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers access to the Brandywine River with rentals available on-site. "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float," explains Jim N., highlighting the accessibility for families.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: French Creek State Park Campground features natural barriers between many campsites. "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 Jen R.
Patio sites: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers premium sites with outdoor furniture included. "Great site (once you're in it!) including patio furniture on a paver patio and seating around an upgraded fire pit. The landscaping made up for the tight squeeze," notes a camper who appreciated the amenities despite space limitations.
Lake access: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers waterside activities just 30 miles from Newtown Square. "We did enjoy the paddle boats and saw a few cranes! They offer fishing at the pond which was also enjoyable," shares Amanda H., highlighting the water recreation opportunities.
What you should know
Tent site limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger tents. "Many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent so keep this in mind if you have a large family sized tent," warns Ellen C. from French Creek State Park.
Big rig access challenges: Some sites have difficult angles for large RVs. "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," cautions Matt S. about certain sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Boat-in only access: Tinicum Island offers primitive camping but requires water transportation. "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft," explains Bobby S., making this a unique option for those with canoes, kayaks, or small boats.
Tips for camping with families
Playground offerings: Compare equipment quality and age ranges. "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived... 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," explains Phinon W. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Kid-friendly hiking: Evansburg State Park Campground offers progressive trail options. "I've spent countless hours hiking and fishing in Evansburg. Since he was 2 years old I've taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails to wandering in the woods looking for 'adventures'," shares Andrew C.
Prepare for mud: Pack extra shoes and clothes for creek exploration. "The only downside, I've ever experienced is I find Evansburg to be the muddiest State Park I've every experienced; I always bring a pair of sneakers to change out of my hiking boots, as well as a shoes and change of clothes for the little guy," advises Andrew C.
Tips from RVers
Uneven sites: Bring leveling blocks to most campgrounds. "The set up was relatively easy, although one person might have some difficulty. It held up well during an evening thunderstorm, but for a small seam leak near the door. We believe this is a result of the fact that our site was slightly uneven," notes Ellen C. from French Creek State Park Campground.
Campground navigation: Watch for narrow interior roads. "It was nice to just be able to back up our camper and have it mostly level already. Mostly every site that I saw also had a grassy area which is fantastic when you have young kids. I am not a fan of all gravel sites!" shares Jen R., highlighting the partial-paved sites at French Creek.
Winter camping options: Several campgrounds remain open year-round. "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's off-season availability.
