Tent campsites near Oxford, Pennsylvania span across natural woodlands and stream valleys with elevations ranging from 320 to 450 feet. The region experiences humid summer temperatures averaging 85°F from June through August, cooling to 65-75°F during spring and fall camping seasons. Most primitive tent sites require carrying gear between 50 and 300 feet from parking areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hibernia County Park, the children's pond offers a well-stocked fishing spot for young anglers. As one visitor notes, "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too."
Trail exploration: The tent camping area at Blackbird State Forest Campground provides access to numerous hiking trails with diverse wildlife. A camper reported, "There are plenty of hiking trails in the state forest, complete with mushrooms, and deer-hunting-stands."
River viewing: When staying at tent campsites near Oxford, Pennsylvania, take advantage of the scenic overlooks. One visitor at Susquehannock State Park Campground mentioned, "It's a great spot for a day hike with the family. It's look out over the Susquehanna River is fantastic and puts you up with the birds."
What campers like
Waterside cooling: The streamside tent sites at Mill Creek Camping Area provide natural temperature regulation. A camper shared, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the layout at Blackbird State Forest. According to a review, "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!"
Clean facilities: While amenities are basic at most tent campsites near Oxford, Pennsylvania, many maintain good standards. One visitor to Hibernia County Park noted, "The porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp. Very quiet at night."
What you should know
Limited water access: Most primitive tent sites require water planning. At Hibernia County Park, a camper warned, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the bathroom."
Hiking traffic: Some tent camping areas experience foot traffic from day visitors. At Mill Creek Camping Area, a camper observed, "The site is public access and there are lots of hikes, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping. I was woke up every morning by people walking through the site."
Weather refunds: Some campgrounds offer flexible booking policies. A Mill Creek camper noted, "Campground will refund you if rain prevents your stay or allow you to rebook."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When tent camping with children near Oxford, look for sites with recreational amenities. One visitor mentioned, "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
Tree cover benefits: Most tent sites feature wooded areas providing natural shade. A visitor to Hibernia County Park reported, "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites."
Age-specific activities: Ridley Creek State Park offers family-friendly trails. A visitor recommended, "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: For RVers considering tent campsites near Oxford, Pennsylvania as alternatives, check site dimensions carefully. A camper at Hibernia County Park advised, "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18 and plenty of sites will fit a small RV or pop up camper."
Leveling challenges: Tent sites converted for RV use may require equipment adjustments. The same Hibernia camper noted, "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix."
Dump station planning: When using smaller campgrounds for RVs, plan ahead for waste disposal. A camper at Hibernia warned, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home."
