Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers equestrian camping facilities within its 5,600-acre property, where marked trails span multiple terrain types. The campground remains open year-round, with electric and water hookups available at multiple sites. Campers can access trail systems directly from the camping area, making this location particularly convenient for those bringing horses.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, visitors can rent equipment for water activities. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake," notes ranger Jen R. The park's location provides good access to water recreation without traveling far from camp.
Fishing spots: Multiple water bodies near Phoenixville offer fishing opportunities. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," according to a review of French Creek State Park Campground. Both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake contain various fish species for anglers.
Hiking trail networks: The region features numerous interconnected trail systems. "We took a hike around the lake - we were toting three kids, one of which was in a stroller," writes one visitor about French Creek. Many trails connect camping areas to scenic overlooks, historical sites, and water features, allowing for day trips without needing to drive.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Most campgrounds in the area provide adequate room between campsites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," mentions Jen R. about her experience at French Creek State Park. This spacing allows for privacy while still maintaining access to facilities.
Clean facilities: Hibernia County Park earns praise for its maintenance standards. "The campground was very quiet and peaceful. The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms," shares Anna in her review. The porta-potties are "very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp."
Wooded settings: Many campers appreciate the natural surroundings at Mountainview Campground. Christina H. describes it as "a nice little remote campground in the mountains" where she could hear "foxes fighting right outside our tent, the snorts of deer, and there were bats right above us all night making noise!" This wildlife proximity offers an authentic outdoor experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, Frank J. notes, "Reasonable cost from NJ state website. I paid $41 for 2 days." Making reservations well in advance helps secure preferred sites, particularly those with specific amenities or views.
Seasonal variations: Weather conditions affect campsite availability and comfort. "We have been having a crazy amount of rain here in Pennsylvania so due to weather related issues we haven't been able to get out there until now," explains a ranger at French Creek. Spring often brings muddy conditions, while summer offers the most facilities and activities.
Alcohol policies: Regulations vary by location. While French Creek State Park notes, "since this is a State Park there is no alcohol allowed," other private campgrounds permit alcohol consumption. Hibernia County Park specifically mentions "County park so no booze but camp sites are under trees."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds provide children's play areas. At Starlite Camping Resort, Brie A. notes they offer "a wide variety of amenities such as a community pool, general store, snack bar, playground area." These facilities provide entertainment options when children need breaks from hiking or other activities.
Kid-friendly fishing: Dedicated areas exist for young anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," explains Anna about Hibernia County Park. These specialized areas often have higher catch rates and safer shoreline access for beginners.
Spacious tent sites: Families need room to spread out equipment. At Hibernia County Park, Anna writes, "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12... Each site has a large picnic table and a fire ring with a built in grill." Sites with ample flat areas accommodate larger family tents and play space.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. Christina H. notes about Mountainview Campground, "The drive to our site had some inclines and was relatively rocky and some vehicles would surely struggle." Bringing leveling blocks helps stabilize larger vehicles on sloped sites.
Limited hookups: Campers should prepare for minimal services at some locations. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. emphasizes, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank." Self-contained RVs fare better at primitive sites.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer this service on-site. Jennifer S. warns about Hibernia, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home." Planning ahead for waste disposal prevents end-of-trip complications.
Ranger
