Best Campgrounds near Thornton, PA

Thornton is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Thornton. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Thornton. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Thornton, Pennsylvania (117)

    1. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

    "Everything was within close walking distance and the staff were extremely helpful. Pool and bathrooms were very clean."

    2. French Creek State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    3. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 892-3900

    $57 / night

    "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! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."

    "We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back"

    4. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 423-6677

    "They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."

    "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"

    5. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    "The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."

    6. Brandywine Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 942-9950

    "Girlfriend and I stayed here while we visited nearby Longwood Gardens. The tent sites are spacious and they all border the creek which is a nice sound at night, as well as a good morning view."

    "Close to Valley Forge military park, and convenient to Philadelphia by train."

    7. Hibernia County Park

    8 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 383-3812

    $15 - $50 / night

    "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the “sites” are smaller and it's more open. It is popular with group tenters."

    "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."

    8. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    10. Evansburg State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Skippack, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 409-1150

    $43 / night

    "It was a great place to walk with your dog and enjoy the Pennsylvania outdoors."

    "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”."

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Recent Reviews near Thornton, PA

869 Reviews of 117 Thornton Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

  • Jessica V.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Great weekend spot

    We went with friends for a weekend. Both families have little kids and it was a great spot with a playground, construction digging area, and a bunch of activities for the kids to do. We went in September so the pool was closed but it looked like a nice size. Full hook ups which was great! Also they have a nice stream that everyone went fishing at. They are building some new sites at the end of the property.

  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.


Guide to Thornton

Camping near Thornton, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the great outdoor activities available.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, check out Spring Gulch Resort Campground. A camper noted, "The fishing ponds are great," making it a perfect spot for anglers.
  • Visiting Local Attractions: The area is rich in local attractions. One reviewer at Old Mill Stream Campground said, "It’s awesome to not have to drive home after a day at the amusement park," referring to its proximity to Dutch Wonderland.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate cleanliness. A visitor at Lums Pond State Park Campground remarked, "Great bath houses, always super clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One reviewer at Lake-In-Wood Campground said, "The sites appeared to all be a very good size," making it comfortable for families and groups.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville provide plenty of activities for kids. A camper shared, "Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties," making it a hit for families.

What you should know

  • Limited Wi-Fi: Some campgrounds have spotty internet. A visitor at Lancaster-New Holland KOA mentioned, "No wi-fi service (at least in our area of the campground)," which might be a downside for those needing connectivity.
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Parvin State Park Campground is open from April to October, so plan your trip accordingly.
  • Close Quarters: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Old Mill Stream Campground noted, "Sites are tight, so know in advance how you’re going to park," which is good to keep in mind.

Tips for camping with families

  • Bring Outdoor Games: Keeping kids entertained can be a challenge. One family at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA suggested, "They offer so many activities during the day," so check for planned events.
  • Pack for All Weather: Weather can change quickly. A visitor at Spring Gulch Resort Campground mentioned, "The grounds looked well maintained," which is a reminder to be prepared for different conditions.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: After a busy day, downtime is essential. A camper at French Creek State Park Campground said, "The lack of people was perfect," emphasizing the need for relaxation.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Levels: Some sites may not be level. A reviewer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA noted, "The campground is hilly," which can affect RV parking.
  • Use a Good GPS: Finding campgrounds can be tricky. A visitor at Lums Pond State Park Campground mentioned, "Not the easiest to find with Google Maps," so have a backup plan.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have everything you need. A camper at Lake-In-Wood Campground said, "The camp store was well stocked," but it’s always good to have your essentials.

Camping near Thornton, PA, offers a mix of fun, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you’re in an RV or tent, there’s a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Thornton, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Thornton, PA is Philadelphia-West Chester KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 17 reviews.