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

    25 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

736 Reviews of 24 Philadelphia Campgrounds


  • Ra F.
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

    OK, but camping gets a low rating.

    The park is lovely, but the camping facilities are subpar, primitive and lack any kind of privacy. I bike toured there. The only potable water was from a near-broken water fountain at the public rest rooms and no electrical connection to recharge electronics. There was also a fair amount of road noise at night. Bathhouse OK, but just basic. Tent spots are just lined up against one another facing a service road.

  • W L.
    Mar. 15, 2022

    Parvin State Park Campground

    Great location; Easy camping for newbies

    We stayed for a weekend and were very happy with our cabin - a pleasant surprise was how incredible the bathroom inside there was - we're talking spectacularly clean! There was a shower stall w/built-in shelves that seemed brand new (no mildew on the shower curtain, no stains, etc.). The small sink had a mirror above it that opens for a medicine cabinet. Plenty of toilet paper but you need to bring your own soap/shampoo/towels.

    The cabin featured a separate kitchenette area with regular size fridge, sink, electric stove with oven and some counter space/cupboard and rack for a hand towel. A fire extinguisher was within easy reach. The main area had two Adirontack chairs, table with benches, electrical outlet and wide barn doors (designed to open fully but ours were nailed shut so only a regular door width opened). There was a wood stove which, in August, we did not utilize (and I'd recommend bringing a small fan or two if you come in the summer, it was hot). There was a chalkboard (no chalk).

    While we did not think we'd be using the narrow screened in porch it did rain and we were glad to have it. Also inside were two little rooms with bunk beds. I felt claustrophobic in there, imagining spiders and all sorts of creepy things living in there and opted to sleep in the car. Which reminds me - warning - there are tiny deer ticks. Don't go out to the car in the dark when the dew is on the grass w/o covering your feet and ankles, you will get deer ticks. Not like it happened to me or anything, wink wink. That being said, the bunks were clean, if well-used. Bring your sheets/pillows/sleeping bag for them. 

    Outside, to the back of the cabin, was a small deck with picnic table, a grill, and a fire ring. Beyond that you will find a path to the lake with beautiful swans.

    We walked the path around Thundergust lake after dinner and here is another warning: bring super-woodsman-strong-do-not-mess-with-me bug spray. While we all can get mosquito bites, these babies were like Rambo mosquitos on sterioids - one bite would leave a welt swollen a quarter inch above your skin and an inch and a half long. One bite. Now imaging a dozen of them and you can see why my friend was miserable the next day. We also found the "spotted lantern fly" a pest that is non-native and wrecking havock, which we promptly crushed with a hiking boot.

    The swimming area of Parvin Lake was closed due to COVID, but we did a few hikes. There are maps available in the ranger's office - and some pretty cool tie-died t-shirts, too. (I got the turquoise). Anyway, the trails were pretty busy - lots of locals out getting a walk, run, or dog walk in. The hikes were easy, with level, sandy trails that were well-marked. There is a lot nearby the camping area, (like Misty Meadow Sheep Dairy where you can feed the animals and purchase some fantasic dairy products, yarn, and meats) or the Jersey Shore, or Amish markets.  So, while you can have the camping experience you will never feel "alone in the woods", which is why it's a great choice for new campers. Also  families who want the option of day trips close by. Some people had kayaks out on one of the lakes.

    While a bit worn from the weather, it was nice to read about the foliage/native plants as we walked the trails. We also caught the end of the blueberry season and I was able to collect enough to make a small batch of jam when I got home.

    My four-star rating comes from personal preference for more solitude when I camp. The other side of the same coin is the other negative impression I left with - there was a lot of trash/litter no matter where we were in this park. "Leave no trace" is not practiced here by the visitors, and while the park keeps the cabins COVID-spotless, the grounds are not maintained with the same stringency. In all fairness, the visitors should stop throwing bottles, wrappers, etc. on the ground. Signage and some volunteer days might help.

  • B
    Jul. 29, 2018

    Tohickon Valley County Park

    One stop shop for adventure!

    This place is amazing! everything you could want, from tent and RV camping to cabin rentals. They also have a pool and playground. some of my favorite parts of this park are a good 100’ rack wall perfect for climbing, great fishing, trails for miles that even connects to the AT, and when scheduled they open the dam up stream for som world class whitewater rafting.

    As for some things that aren’t listed. this is no alcohol permitted in the park due to it being a state park, however that all depends on how open you are about it and the Park rangers. Cell phone service is limited last time I was up there in 2012 only people with Verizon Wireless had any reception. Also there is no WiFi. No hookups or camp store.

  • Napunani
    Jun. 25, 2022

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Campsites Jammed Closely Together

    PROS 

    Reserved 328 days prior to arriving

    $13.50 senior discount 

    Immediately greeted by Loop C camp host who was extremely friendly and helpful 

    Site C3 parking pad level asphalt 

    Metal frame wooden picnic table that was moveable 

    One hook lantern pole 

    Metal fire pit which was cleaned out upon our arrival 

    Some vegetation between sites provided a bit of privacy from neighbors sites 

    Park is 21 miles from Valley Forge National Historical Park. Catch National Park Service 90 minute trolley tour at the Visitor Center. 

    Shady Maple Smorgasbord...authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking…largest buffet in the USA…16 miles from French Creek SP 

    CONS

    $6.50 reservation fee for making my own on-line reservation 

    Horrible signage along PA-345. Never saw very small sign when we where intensely searching 

    Such a large overall park, but camping loop sites are jammed together

    Pitiful low water pressure  in Loop C

    Site sewer connection is high; needs to be knocked down to ground level 

    Short length of site caused creative tow vehicle parking 

    Loop C women’s toilet/shower building a big nasty mess Saturday 

    Trash dumpsters are on the main road near the campground check-in station (not walkable) 

    Noisy campground; 9pm quiet hour not enforced

    Lots of barking dogs 

    No wood sales in park 

    No WiFi 

    1 bar Verizon

  • Christina H.
    Aug. 29, 2019

    Round Valley State Park Campground

    Come for the jaw-dropping views. Review for Round Valley State Park Site 52

    Round Valley is certainly a must see for any type of outdoors person, or someone who appreciates relaxation in a gorgeous landscape. It is a semi-mountainous, forested setting with a very large "lake", which is really a man-made reservoir in the middle of a valley. 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. You will have to look very hard to find a more beautiful camping scene in New Jersey. Also, it's dog friendly!

    There is no car access to these campsites, you must keep your vehicle overnight in their south parking lot. If you have a camping registration you do not have to pay the fee to enter the park after you check in to the office. The only way to get to the campsites which are located on the other side of the reservoir deep in the woods, are by boating in, backpacking in, or biking in. If you are boating, kayaking, or canoeing to your site, be very careful and watch the wind warnings. If the wind-warning strobe lights go off you should get off of the water asap because the waters can get very rough and this place is nicknamed the Bermuda Triangle of NJ. We were originally going to boat in for a quick overnight, but at the last minute we decided we wanted a challenge. We backpacked 5.5 miles in on an August morning to site #52. The trail was mountainous, rocky, hilly, but for the most part in the shade. This is definitely not a walk through the park easy trail, pack light and don't bring coolers or wagons if you are hiking it. The first three miles are very rocky, with some larger rocks protruding from the ground, but from there on the trail turns into smooth asphalt to allow for ranger and emergency vehicles and it gets a lot easier. We were a bit sore the next day with a couple of mild blisters but we were still able to easily do the 5.5 mile hike back in the afternoon. Someone who does a lot of hiking and backpacking will find the trail easy, but with little to no experience you may struggle. My dog is a 7 year old retriever with minor joint issues and the trail was a piece of cake to her (she even carried all of her own gear).

     These are truly primitive sites with only a few drinking water pumps scattered about and some primitive outhouses, however, you never feel completely alone here because the campsites are not spaced too far apart. My honest opinion: filter or purify your water right from the reservoir if you have the option, because you may be far from a pump, or it may be temporarily closed, and the reservoir water tastes good and is cold. I also opt to skip the outhouses too because they are never clean and always stink unbearably no matter where they are. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. Alcohol and smoking are not permitted. If you must bring alchohol,  bring a little in a subtle container and do not bother the other campers. Swimming is also technically not permitted but there were many people swimming and we swam also and no one was bothered.

    Now onto our campsite. Site 52 was nearly perfect. The views were to die for. We were able to clearly see the water past the trees from our tent and from our picnic table. The trip to the water was just a few yards away by a footpath carved through tall grass. Unfortunately, the guests before us were very dirty and there was fresh trash scattered about our spot, so we had some cleaning to do when we arrived. The other downside to this spot is you could just barely see site 53 from your spot, which wasn't a huge deal but it wasn't total privacy. Since the surrounding campsites are just barely spaced out to give enough privacy, you can clearly hear your neighbors if they are being noisy. Keep that in mind if you are being the noisy one too. The park strictly enforces its rules and if you are being a nuisance you will be escorted off the property. We saw it first hand on our overnight trip. Our neighbors were college-age, very loud and rowdy, chugging beers and smoking (both are not permitted so don't make it obvious if you are doing either). Suddenly it got quiet and we look over and there are 3 cops at their site arresting them. We were thankful that it got quiet after that, but it was short lived, right before the sun set our other neighbors boat in and start playing music loudly and chopping wood, this continued until around 1am. We would have complained but we were just too tired and kept just falling back asleep. But seriously please don't be that guy.

    Onto the the tl;dr!

    PROS:

    • Breathtaking scenery
    • Gorgeous crystal-clear water
    • Sites are in a beautiful wooded area
    • Sites have a picnic table and nice fire rings
    • You can boat, kayak, or canoe right into your spot if you have a water-access site, site numbers are posted to help you find your spot
    • Great spot to watch wildlife
    • Amazing spot for water sports, fishing, swimming, etc
    • Beautiful, scenic trails to hike or bike
    • Can confirm the sunsets are gorgeous 
    • Every site is dog friendly!
    • There is a lot of variety with the sites (water access or more into the mountain, full shade, partial, or no shade, how far they are spaced apart, etc) so you will be able to find the site that is perfect for you 
    • Paths that allow for emergency vehicles, police, and rangers keep the place safe and fun while giving you the remote feeling of a campsite
    • Lots of tinder and firewood available to gather
    • Our site had a couple clotheslines hung already
    • Each outhouse had bear-proof trash cans, very handy

    CONS:

    • Our site was left littered
    • Noisy, disruptive neighbors
    • Not full privacy (depending on the site)
    • Outhouses smelled like death and were terribly dirty and dark
    • Only 2 water pumps were working when we went, and they were both way too far, we brought a water filter and pumped our own water straight out of the reservoir 
    • The trail had a surprising amount of litter, mainly tinfoil and cigarette butts scattered along the trail. Perhaps the rangers could be more strict about littering
    • Mild boat noise at water-front sites

    **THINGS TO DO AT ROUND VALLEY **

    • Great fishing
    • Kayaking/canoeing/boating
    • Swimming
    • Beautiful hiking trails
    • Wildlife/bird watching
    • Mountain biking
    • Picnicking 
    • Relaxing
  • Jim N.
    Apr. 29, 2019

    Hibernia County Park

    Hidden gem

    A nice primitive campground - good for a quick trip away. The campground is a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by. They are wooded sites and have 2 loops. There is no store, but there a places close to get supplies. The park is dry, no alcohol. No hook ups either. There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 14, 2025

    Little Red Barn Campground

    Nice family-run campground

    General: 132-site campground with a mix of no hookups or water and electric. Six of the sites are “field sites” – on grass. Our site was chosen for us. 

    Site Quality: Varies. Sites 68 and 69 are next to the field sites and aside from having electricity and water and a faint gravel camper pad, there is not much to distinguish them from the field sites (which have electricity but no water). Our site was almost level but in order to reach the electric connection, we were sloped slightly downhill side-to-side. The FHU sites are wooded but close together.

    Bath/Shower house: Clean with soap and paper towels. The shower had nice hot water. 

    Activities/Amenities: The pool is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. There is also a separate kiddie pool. We were there the Thursday after Memorial Day and had the pool to ourselves. Other amenities include laundry, a game room, golf cart rentals, and sports equipment (basketballs, volleyball, soccer, football, horseshoes, bocce ball, ping pong) are available. Propane fill-ups, firewood, a camp store, and a dump station (including on-site for a fee) are all available. Free WiFi, although not the strongest signal. 

    Had we not needed an electric hookup for our computers, I would have much preferred the primitive sites – they are private and shaded but they are a hike to the bathroom. There is one vault toilet in this area. Our site had no shade, and it was a very hot day when we were there. I was surprised at the lack of camping options in this area.

  • Ellen C.
    May. 29, 2019

    Bass River State Forest

    Our usual spot for a quick weekend trip that's close to home.

    I have stayed here many times over the years, usually for a long weekend.  Longer trips were spent there with my parents when I was a kid.   I prefer the south shore campsites to the north shore.  The sites on the south shore offer a little more privacy and aren't as crammed.  I'm particularly fond of the dog friendly loop, its a newer loop and the bathrooms are more modern than the others scattered around. 

    We have also stayed in the camping shelters a few times and a cabin once.    The shelters offer no frills sleeping quarters with two bunks beds, so four beds and closet/pantry on both sides in the rear for food and gear, a wooden table in and pot belly stove for warmth or a one pot meal in the front room.  Bathrooms are in a separate building across the road and are shared with the other shelters occupants.  The exterior includes a fire pit, picnic table and a fire ring for larger meal prep.

    The cabins are a two steps above the shelter with a full kitchen and bathroom with shower, but otherwise rustic, with three sets of bunk beds, a wooden table and two Adirondack chairs in front of a fire place.  The screened in porch at the rear of the cabin overlooks the lake and has plenty of room for camp chairs.   There is also a picnic table and a charcoal grill outside.

    The beach is home to the cleanest, most wonderful lake I have ever set foot  in.  There are picnic tables and grills scattered all around the beach near the parking lot and it does get crowded in the summer months.  There is also a concession stand open in the summer months, serving light fare -- burgers, dogs, ice cream, soda & chips.

  • 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.


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

Where are the best tent camping sites near Philadelphia?

For an exceptional tent camping experience near Philadelphia, Round Valley State Park Campground stands out with its pristine reservoir and secluded sites. This hike-in or boat-in campground offers a true wilderness experience within reasonable driving distance from the city. For those seeking another option, Goshen Pond — Wharton State Forest provides walk-in tent sites that offer more privacy and a peaceful setting away from vehicle traffic. The campground is situated right by the water with vault toilets and potable water available, making it a great choice for tent campers looking to escape the urban environment.

How much does tent camping cost near Philadelphia?

Tent camping costs near Philadelphia vary by amenities and location. Hibernia County Park offers some of the most affordable options at just $15 per night for primitive sites with picnic tables and fire rings but no hookups. State parks like Fort Washington State Park Campground typically range from $20-30 per night for tent sites. Most public campgrounds charge additional fees for amenities like hot showers or electricity. Many parks also add vehicle fees ($5-10) or reservation fees ($3-10). Group camping areas and private campgrounds tend to charge higher rates, ranging from $25-45 per night depending on amenities and season. Most campgrounds accept cash and credit cards, but some smaller county parks may be cash-only.

What is the best season for tent camping around Philadelphia?

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best tent camping conditions around Philadelphia, with summer bringing warm temperatures perfect for enjoying water activities at Evansburg State Park Campground. However, the most pleasant camping weather typically occurs in September and early October when temperatures moderate and humidity drops. Fall brings beautiful foliage at Pine Cone Campgrounds, creating spectacular scenery. Summer weekends tend to be busiest, so consider weekday trips during July and August. Spring camping (April-May) can be lovely but expect occasional rain showers and cooler nights that require warmer sleeping gear.

What campgrounds in Philadelphia allow tent camping?

Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park offers tent camping in a beautiful park setting close to Philadelphia. While the sites lack privacy and are quite close together, the surrounding park is lovely with plenty of outdoor activities. Hibernia County Park provides tent camping with two distinct loops - Lake Loop (better for group camping) and Fiddler's Loop (more suitable for individual tent campers). The campground is primitive but clean, with running water available and porta-potties that are well-maintained. Both parks operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early on summer weekends is recommended.