Best Tent Camping near Philadelphia, PA

State parks and public lands surrounding Philadelphia, Pennsylvania offer several tent camping options within a short drive of the city. Fort Washington State Park Campground, located 15 miles north of Philadelphia, provides walk-in tent sites with basic amenities in a wooded setting. Hibernia County Park, situated about 40 miles west of the city, features primitive tent campsites across two loops (Lake Loop and Fiddler's Loop) with sites nestled among trees. For those seeking more seclusion, Wharton State Forest in neighboring New Jersey offers multiple tent-only camping areas including Goshen Pond and Batona Campground, both accessible within a 45-minute drive from Philadelphia.

Most tent campgrounds near Philadelphia feature dirt or grass pads with minimal grading. Fire rings and picnic tables are standard at most sites, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Potable water access is limited at many primitive tent camping areas, with some sites offering only a single spigot or pump. Vault toilets are common, with flush facilities rare except at more developed campgrounds. Tent campers should prepare for variable conditions, especially at sites like Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park, where one camper noted "the only potable water was from a near-broken water fountain at the public restrooms." Seasonal restrictions apply at most locations, with most tent campgrounds operating from April through October.

In early spring and fall, tent-only sites throughout the region offer more solitude and fewer crowds. Round Valley State Park Campground in New Jersey, though requiring a 3-5 mile hike or boat access to reach tent sites, rewards backcountry tent camping enthusiasts with exceptional views and privacy. According to reviews, "the sites were big enough for play and privacy" with "water that provided a lovely view in the morning." At Goshen Pond in Wharton State Forest, one visitor appreciated that "you park off and walk in to your site," noting there is "more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going." Weekday camping typically offers more seclusion than weekends, when many primitive tent campgrounds experience higher occupancy and occasional noise issues.

Best Tent Sites Near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (24)

    1. Fort Washington State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Ambler, PA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 591-5250

    $28 - $72 / night

    "Fort Washington State Park is just north of Philadelphia. It's almost 500 acres filled with trails, woods,and river."

    "The give you firewood—-if you bring your own, leave with any left over."

    2. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

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

    $57 / night

    "Terrific space for exploring"

    "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."

    3. Alverthorpe Private Park

    3 Reviews
    Jenkintown, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 884-6538

    $1 - $100 / night

    5. Evansburg State Park Campground

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

    $43 / night

    "Lots of tree cover running along a small running creek"

    "You need a license to fish, and if you plan on catching Trout you need the Trout endorsement on the fishing licence, currently$9.90.The restroom facilities we're clean."

    6. Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    8 Reviews
    Titusville, NJ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 737-0623

    $50 - $100 / night

    "The areas for that seemed well groomed, bathrooms were acceptable, and there was plenty of space. Some nice trees not too close allowed for good shade, without feeling like in a forest."

    "I always look forward to going because it is consistently clean, great for riding bikes and taking pets for a walk and children for a stroll PLUS it is significant  historically and it is enjoyable for"

    7. Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest

    6 Reviews
    Hammonton, NJ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "I like campgrounds which have you park off and walk in to your site. There is more foot traffic, but you don't hear as many cars coming and going and driving past your site all the time."

    "The boyfriend and I stayed for a weekend at one of the primitive tent sites. Our site was private and secluded. We had a great time."

    8. Batona — Wharton State Forest

    11 Reviews
    Chatsworth, NJ
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (609) 561-0024

    "Bears frequent this campground so be bear aware and practice proper food storage. "

    "The Batona Campground is in the northern area of the Wharton State Forest and is a bit removed from most trails and other campgrounds in the park."

    9. Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

    8 Reviews
    Perkiomenville, PA
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 234-4528

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Clean restrooms, lots of open space!"

    "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails"

    10. Round Valley State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Lebanon, NJ
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (908) 236-6355

    "The crystal-clear water is home to huge lake trout and the forests are bursting with wildlife. The sunsets across the lake are to die for."

    "This campground is hike in or boat in. The campsites are primitive and include a fire ring as well as a picnic table."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Philadelphia, PA

728 Reviews of 24 Philadelphia Campgrounds



Guide to Philadelphia

Tent camping near Philadelphia offers a fantastic escape into nature, with a variety of campgrounds that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and relaxation.

Explore Scenic Trails and Outdoor Activities

Amenities for a Comfortable Stay

Prices and Reservations

  • Tent camping prices at Alverthorpe Private Park start at around $15 per night, but reservations are required for residents only.
  • Goshen Pond - Wharton State Forest offers primitive tent sites that are reservable, providing a secluded experience for campers.
  • Rates for tent camping at Tinicum Island are free, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy nature without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Philadelphia, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Philadelphia, PA is Fort Washington State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Philadelphia, PA?

TheDyrt.com has all 24 tent camping locations near Philadelphia, PA, with real photos and reviews from campers.