Tent camping near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania presents unique opportunities within the Mid-Atlantic forest ecosystem. Most sites lie between 200-500 feet above sea level with moderate terrain in Pennsylvania's Piedmont region. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F with higher humidity levels than western Pennsylvania, creating dense morning fog in creek valleys common to many campsites from June through September.
What to do
Bird watching expeditions: Fort Washington State Park Campground offers exceptional bird watching opportunities with an observation deck specifically designed for viewing raptors and other species. "Should you call yourself a bird watcher, you'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn," notes Stuart K.
Disc golf courses: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park features a complete disc golf course alongside other recreational activities. According to Benjamin C., the park offers a "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing" making it an ideal multi-activity destination.
Historic site exploration: Washington Crossing State Park connects campers with Revolutionary War history. "Every year, they re-enact Washington's troops crossing the Delaware!" shares David S., who adds, "It was VERY cold the year I went. To warm up, there is a small visitor's center where they have a reproduction of the famous painting commemorating the moment."
Creek hiking: Many trails follow waterways through wooded areas. "Great place to creek hike, nice for horses, we did get a lot of ticks, but not deer ticks, thankfully," mentions Meg F. about Evansburg State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Goshen Pond Campground in Wharton State Forest, the layout encourages a more secluded experience. Elliott B. appreciates that "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."
Water access for kayaking: Many campers value direct water access for paddling sports. Anna D. notes about Goshen Pond, "Our site was right next to the Mullica River, and had excellent views if you walked just a couple steps from the tent. We were able to put our kayaks in right next to the site which was very convenient."
Group camping opportunities: Several parks specialize in organized group camping rather than individual sites. "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," explains Brittany L., adding "Each campsite includes a fire pit with a grate (no picnic tables)."
Well-maintained trails: Trail access directly from campsites ranks high in camper reviews. Regarding Batona Campground, one reviewer notes: "Best part of this campground is trailheads begin directly from campsites. Trails vary in length but all are flat and easily accessible."
What you should know
Site access limitations: Many primitive camping areas require significant hiking or boating to reach. At Round Valley State Park Campground, Stuart K. warns, "Whether hiking or kayaking to this CG, you will want to bring as little with you as possible—packing too much to come here just isn't worth the work."
Group-only restrictions: Several parks near Philadelphia restrict individual camping and only permit organized groups. Sue C. clarifies about Fort Washington: "Great historical park along Washington's route to Valley Forge - however, camping is group camping by reservation only, not nightly camping for individuals."
Limited bathroom facilities: Primitive sites often have minimal or poorly maintained facilities. At Round Valley, Stuart K. advises, "While there are backwoods-style bathroom pits, these are very ill-managed and you'll come across the 'stank' well before actually even arriving here, so we just didn't use them."
Tick prevalence: Multiple campgrounds report tick issues, particularly in warmer months. At Wharton State Forest, Eldad K. recommends: "Great sites, great trails, lots of hiking and off road trails for dirt bike/atv/trucks. Pretty good boating/fishing. Just gotta check often for chiggers and ticks."
Tips for camping with families
Residential park alternatives: For families wanting amenities with camping, Alverthorpe Private Park offers multiple recreational facilities alongside camping. Stuart K. notes it "packs a lot of entertainment options" including "baseball field, basketball court, fishing, football field, grills, lake, mini-golf, pavilions and shelters, kid's playground, restrooms, tennis courts, walking and biking trails and a swimming pool."
Wildlife education opportunities: Several parks offer nature programming ideal for children. At Evansburg State Park, Andrew C. shares, "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'."
Testing sites for new campers: Some locations serve as perfect introductions to camping for families. David K. recommends Ridley Creek State Park, stating "This place is great for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they have a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on."
Swimming options: Look for parks with dedicated swimming areas separate from fishing zones. T.K. describes Round Valley Recreation Area as a "Really nice spot to camp very peaceful and quiet. Gorgeous sunset, Beautiful views."
Tips from RVers
Sand road access: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads unsuitable for larger vehicles. About Batona Campground, Meghan G. cautions: "The road into the campground is about 1 mile of loose sand. It can be accessed by a standard vehicle. Sites are suitable for tents or small campers. The unpaved road into the site is narrow and tree lined. A larger RV would not fit."
Limited hookup options: Even campgrounds accepting RVs often lack full hookups. At Green Lane Park, Ra F. reports: "The only potable water was from a near-broken water fountain at the public rest rooms and no electrical connection to recharge electronics."
Proximity considerations: RV sites often lack privacy barriers between neighbors. Tiffany B. observes at Green Lane Park: "Sites are close to each other with absolutely no privacy. Bathrooms however are nice and clean with plenty of them around the park."
