Camping sites near Norristown, Pennsylvania are situated in the southeastern Pennsylvania piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills and dense woodlands that transition between coastal plain and the Appalachian Mountains. The area sits at elevations ranging from 100-500 feet above sea level, creating diverse terrain for camping experiences. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though winter camping opportunities exist at select locations.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: At French Creek State Park Campground, campers can explore multiple trail systems for all skill levels. "There are 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista," notes a visitor to the park, which features two lakes and extensive hiking options.
Disc golf courses: Boulder Woods Campground offers an extensive disc golf course that attracts enthusiasts. "They do allow golf carts we saw gas and powered. Nice and quite. We had a great time and it's on our list as a successful tent camping location for us. The owners are AWESOME!" reports one camper who enjoyed the course. This activity provides a unique outdoor recreation option beyond traditional camping activities.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways provide fishing across several species. "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!)" shares a visitor to Evansburg State Park Campground. Anglers need Pennsylvania fishing licenses with additional trout stamps costing $9.90 if targeting that species.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate the separation between sites at certain parks. "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," reports one visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Recreational facilities keep children entertained throughout stays. At Boulder Woods Campground, "They have so much to do for kids!!" according to one reviewer. Another added, "The general store had everything plus, and very reasonably priced. The camp ground has a very large golf disc course and they seem to have tournaments."
Urban accessibility with nature immersion: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA provides convenience for city exploration. "We stayed here for 3 nights while visiting family In Philadelphia. It is a 20 minute ride into Philly and Uber was was quick and responsive," shares one camper. Another noted, "By Wednesday I had the whole row of tent sites to myself. Maybe that's why it was so peaceful, but every night after my cacophonous conference in Philadelphia, I couldn't wait to turn down Timberlane Road and see that little KOA sign glowing in the darkness."
What you should know
Tent site conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds have challenging tent sites. At Tohickon Campground, "Don't come if your in a tent And It Has Been or will rain, It Becomes Flooded or turns into A mudPit." Similarly, at Green Lane Park, "The sites are large but there is NO privacy. The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during peak season. Some have resident-only restrictions, as at Alverthorpe Private Park: "Restricted to only residents. Looks nice, if you can actually stay here." Reservations can typically be made through individual park websites or by phone.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies between parks, from basic to well-maintained. "The showers were nice with some nice hot water but very small and difficult to change in," notes one camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, while at Green Lane Park, "Bathrooms however are nice and clean with plenty of them around the park."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake, and an amphitheater at the campground where they hold events and Sunday morning church services," shares a visitor to Ridley Creek State Park.
Creek exploration: Water features provide natural entertainment. "I had the best time here hiking up and down the mini mountains. The water was clear and beautiful and I absolutely loved it," reports a camper at Ridley Creek State Park. Another visitor to Evansburg noted, "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."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near campgrounds offer learning experiences. At Fort Washington State Park Campground, "This very place lies in significance from the Revolutionary War when it housed troops led by then General George Washington on the way to Valley Forge." Combined with nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site near French Creek State Park, families can include educational components to camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV campers should verify site sizes before booking. At Village Scene Park, "Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don't expect big pull-throughs," while Boulder Woods notes "RV spots seem nice and large."
Hookup availability: Amenities vary by campground and site section. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers "full hook ups, tent sites, cabins, and even glamping cabins," while at French Creek, "We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult navigation. At Tohickon Campground, "Getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back." RVers should check road restrictions before arrival, especially for larger rigs.
