Camping options near Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania range from full-service RV sites to primitive tent camping, all within a 30-mile radius of this Philadelphia suburb. Located in Delaware County at an elevation of just 75 feet above sea level, Sharon Hill experiences humid summers with temperatures often reaching the high 80s and relatively mild winters. Seasonal flooding can affect riverfront campsites during spring rainy periods, so checking weather forecasts before booking waterfront sites is recommended.
What to do
Hiking at Ridley Creek State Park: This 2,600-acre park offers 13 miles of hiking trails just 15 miles from Sharon Hill. Visitors praise the diverse terrain and wildlife viewing opportunities. "We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back," notes one camper at Ridley Creek State Park. Another mentions, "well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog."
Water activities at Lums Pond: Located about 25 miles south in Delaware, this state park features a 200-acre pond perfect for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. "Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," reports a visitor to Lums Pond State Park Campground. Electric motors are permitted but gas motors are prohibited on the pond.
Birdwatching at Fort Washington: The park's Hawk Watch observation area provides excellent bird viewing opportunities, especially during migration seasons. "If, like me, you are trying to explore the wonder and splendor of Valley Forge and have stumbled across Fort Washington SP enroute, then what a little gem you have discovered," writes a reviewer at Fort Washington State Park Campground. Birdwatchers can spot "Dark-eyed Junco, Common Loon, Blue Heron, Osprey, Cooper's Hawk, Bald Eagles" and many other species.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere at several campgrounds near Sharon Hill. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, one camper notes, "I arrived on a Tuesday a few days after they closed the pool, and 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."
Modern amenities: Clean facilities and updated hook-ups matter to campers in this region. A visitor to French Creek State Park Campground commented, "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."
Waterfront views: Campsites with water views rank highly among campers' favorites. At the Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Many campgrounds in the Sharon Hill area operate on limited seasonal schedules. Old Cedar Campground in nearby Monroeville, New Jersey typically operates from "April 21 to October 9," according to their listing. Some sites open earlier or close later depending on weather conditions and demand.
Reservation requirements: Most campsites near Sharon Hill require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA fills quickly during summer months. One camper advised, "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. The park is clean, quiet, full of families. The staff are friendly and welcoming."
Access limitations: Some camping locations have specific entry requirements or challenging access. Tinicum Island offers free primitive tent camping but is "accessible only by boat," making it suitable only for those with watercraft. A visitor simply noted, "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft."
Urban camping options: For a unique experience, urban camping is available within Philadelphia itself. Philly Love Boats at Pier 5 Marina offers "urban glamping" on boats with views of the Philadelphia skyline. Though unconventional for traditional campers, it provides an alternative option for those wanting to stay close to city attractions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: When camping with children, look for sites with dedicated play areas. At Old Cedar Campground, a camper observed, "My grandchildren loved visiting us, pool was clean - they had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great - playground was adequate. Mini golf was fun for all. There was also activities for the younger kids - making slime."
Activity planning: Family-friendly campgrounds often schedule regular events for children. "They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget," notes a visitor to Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, adding that "There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more."
Proximity to attractions: Choose campsites with convenient access to regional attractions. French Creek State Park provides a central location for exploring multiple points of interest. One camper reported it's "Close to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site" and offers "decent spacing between sites."
Tips from RVers
Site selection concerns: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, a camper with a 45-foot motorhome warned: "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."
Hookup availability: Full hookups can be limited at state parks near Sharon Hill. At Lums Pond State Park, all sites "were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer." This renovation makes it particularly appealing to RVers seeking modern conveniences.
Seasonal preparation: RVers camping in colder months should prepare accordingly. A winter camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA mentioned, "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely." Many campgrounds remain open year-round but with reduced services during winter months.
