Tent camping options near Newtown, Pennsylvania include unique seasonal opportunities scattered throughout the Delaware Valley region. The area sits at an average elevation of 400 feet, with camping experiences available across Montgomery, Bucks, and nearby New Jersey counties. Summer brings warm, humid conditions with average July temperatures reaching 86°F, while spring and fall offer milder camping weather with periodic rainfall.
What to do
Fishing at Evansburg State Park: This park features a creek perfect for angling, particularly for trout enthusiasts. "I cought a beautiful Brown Trout here a few weeks ago! Great park. (I put the Trout back in, it was very healthy and I managed to get the hook out quickly, otherwise he would have been dinner!)," notes a visitor to Evansburg State Park Campground.
Bird watching at Hawk Mountain: Fort Washington State Park offers excellent opportunities for spotting migratory birds. One experienced visitor explains, "Should 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, wherein you can view their splendor from the wonderfully built Observation Deck." Bird species include "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles, Great Horned & Barn Owls."
Historical programming: Experience Revolutionary War history through interpretive programs. "Visit the park's historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it's easily the most memorable history lesson you'll ever get outdoors," suggests one visitor to Washington Crossing State Park. Another camper adds, "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware! It was VERY cold the year I went."
What campers like
Remote wilderness camping: For those willing to work harder for solitude, several parks offer genuine wilderness experiences. "Round Valley SP is the only NJ SP that actually offers up true wilderness camping (a.k.a. primitive), which can only be accessed by hiking 3 to 6 miles– or if you come with your own boat," notes a visitor to Round Valley State Park Campground. Another adds: "Some of the sites are at least 3 miles to get to unless you take a boat across. Beautiful peaceful and primitive."
Pine Barrens seclusion: Wharton State Forest offers unique camping in New Jersey's distinctive Pine Barrens ecosystem. "It is so easy to get lost in these woods and I LOVE IT! If you want off the beaten path and not close to anyone... this is IT!" writes an experienced camper at Batona — Wharton State Forest. The Batona Trail runs directly through the campground, with "trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
Crystal clear water: Several parks feature remarkably clear water bodies. "The water is crystal clear, the area is clean. There's bathrooms and pumps but we just filtered the water from the reservoir instead which tasted a million times better than the well water," explains a Round Valley visitor. Another notes the "crystalline bevy of trout-infused reservoir water."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many tent sites offer minimal amenities. "Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it's campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient," explains a Fort Washington State Park Campground visitor. At Batona Campground, expect "two pit toilets that was pretty bad shape" and "basic" accommodations with "each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate (no picnic tables)."
Group camping restrictions: Several parks only permit organized groups. At Fort Washington State Park, expect "no RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt." Similarly, other visitors note, "not a campground, but beautiful park" and "there is only group tenting here."
Early noise at private campgrounds: When choosing private campgrounds over state parks, be prepared for different quiet hours. "The only downside I saw was people here are up way to early. 7am place was already loud. 7:45am a propane truck pulled in the full the propane and was extremely loud. 8am people with leaf blowers and chopping wood. Don't expect to sleep past 7:30am."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-rich options: Some private campgrounds provide extensive recreation options for children. "The place was fun.. they have peddle cars and playgrounds. They deliver wood to your site by the truck full!" writes a visitor to Tip Tam Camping Resort. Another camper adds, "There is plenty to do or not. Kids can go. Mini golf, swimming, pedal cars."
Historical learning opportunities: Washington Crossing State Park offers educational value. "It's a quaint historical area kept green and nature friendly. Good for biking and dog walking," notes one visitor. Another explains, "Washington's crossing is beautiful and historic. We often bike along the canal there. There are farms and animals to see, hikes along the Delaware river, Bowman's tower with a great view of the surrounding area."
Easy hiking options: Several parks feature beginner-friendly trails suitable for young hikers. "Hiking along the creek was great," notes a visitor to Ridley Creek State Park, while another mentions "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!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Many campgrounds near Newtown restrict larger vehicles. "The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit," explains a Batona Campground visitor. Similarly, at Alverthorpe Private Park, "this is not a spot for RVs or 5th Wheelers."
Seasonal considerations: RV hookups are unavailable at many wilderness sites. Round Valley visitors note that despite the gorgeous setting, "coming in with a ton of gear is even more difficult/prohibitive" and "we found parking in the Southern Lot to be perfectly fine and while we were initially worried about leaving our vehicle parked there for a few nights, we were reassured by the park rangers who patrol the lot constantly."
Pack accordingly: Without full hookups, RVers need to plan differently. "Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up," notes one Fort Washington visitor, while others mention bringing "EVERYTHING you might need" because "there isn't much" in terms of amenities at many campgrounds.
