French Creek State Park spans 7,526 acres in Elverson, Pennsylvania, approximately 15 miles from Phoenixville. The park sits at an elevation of 650 feet and features typical humid continental climate conditions with warm summers and cold winters. Camping areas remain open year-round with four distinct loops offering different experiences for tent campers, RVers, and those seeking glamping accommodations.
What to do
Hiking trails for all abilities: French Creek State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities for campers. "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. We tented in loop D...there is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful, at least two playgrounds (perfect for our kids), the bathrooms were well maintained," notes Katie M. The park's trail system accommodates various skill levels.
Fishing in two lakes: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park provides excellent fishing options. "Phenomenal disc golf course, hiking, and fishing," shares Benjamin C. The park features a large pond with ample fishing space throughout the 3,400-acre property.
Historic site exploration: Hibernia County Park connects campers with regional history. "There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends," mentions Jim N. The historic structures provide context about the region's industrial past and complement outdoor activities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Site layout at French Creek State Park Campground earns high marks from campers. "We LOVE camping here as the campsites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well," shares Jen R. The campground's thoughtful design maintains personal space between neighboring sites.
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain clean restrooms and showers. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," notes Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
Accessible water features: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers unique water access. "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites," explains Phinon W. The riverfront setting creates a peaceful backdrop.
What you should know
Off-season considerations: Some glamping options near Phoenixville remain open year-round. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you as it was unclear if checks were accepted," advises Galit P.
Site terrain variations: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers diverse site conditions. "The roads were very tight and you really had to watch how you drove through because of the trees. Our site was a drive-through but slanted. There wasn't much room on our site to do anything else," notes Mary C. Understanding site limitations helps with appropriate equipment selection.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "We spent the Memorial Day weekend at Philadelphia/West Chester KOA Holiday in Coatesville, PA and had a good time. We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site#25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept," shares Matt S. Holiday weekends require advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple parks offer dedicated play areas. "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground (September 2020). There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages. They also have pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool," notes Phinon W. about Philadelphia South/West Chester KOA.
Family-friendly loops: Boulder Woods Campground caters specifically to families. "This is a great campground. Bill and Kate are friendly and helpful. They have so much to do for kids!!" shares Shannon C. The campground organizes regular activities to keep younger campers engaged.
Budget-friendly options: Hibernia County Park offers affordable camping for families. "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," reports John Z. The lower cost makes weekend trips more accessible for families.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: Larger RVs should scout access routes before arrival. "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road," cautions Matt S. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Electric hookup availability: French Creek State Park offers various hookup options. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," observes Jen R. The paved parking pads simplify RV leveling compared to other area campgrounds.
Water access planning: Tohickon Family Campground provides upgraded utilities for RVers. "Nice new gravel and hook ups. Spacious sites. Large stream with fishing. WiFi good. ATT poor," notes Stephen W. Water and electric access varies significantly between sites and campgrounds in the area.
