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

733 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

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.