Best Campgrounds near Essington, PA

Essington, PA is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Essington is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Essington, PA. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Essington, Pennsylvania (128)

    1. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 423-6677

    "They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."

    "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"

    2. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 892-3900

    $57 / night

    "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."

    "We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back"

    3. Old Cedar Campground

    11 Reviews
    Monroeville, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 358-4881

    $31 - $50 / night

    "This row of sites lacked the trees for shade and privacy found at most other sites around the campground. 

    The pool was nice and clean."

    "Not close off the highway, but wooden sites. Seems as though people spend their summers there. Pool was beautiful and looked new. Mini golf was decrepit and looked abandoned. Store was nice."

    5. Four Seasons Family Campground

    8 Reviews
    Pilesgrove, NJ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 769-3635

    $50 - $150 / night

    "They have many amenities form a lake to swim or fish, to playgrounds,theres a convenient store and even an arcade, and the best part is all the farms around."

    6. French Creek State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $24 - $122 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    7. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $27 - $45 / night

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    "The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."

    8. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

    "Everything was within close walking distance and the staff were extremely helpful. Pool and bathrooms were very clean."

    10. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer

    10 Reviews
    Elmer, NJ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 451-7479

    "They are new-ish Shasta campers, queen bed, 1 slide, rear bunks, 2 entrances. Very clean. Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."

    "I think the lale could use a little cleanup with the amount of bobbers, string and mess left behind by people. There have ao many cabins its crazy and alot of seasonal rentals."

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Recent Reviews near Essington, PA

856 Reviews of 128 Essington Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.


Guide to Essington

Camping near Essington, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From spacious campgrounds to scenic trails, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at what you can do, what campers love, and some handy tips for your next adventure.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, “The state park has numerous hiking and biking opportunities and probably some fishing as well.” This park is perfect for those who enjoy being active in nature.
  • Fishing and Canoeing: At Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest, you can enjoy fishing and canoeing. A visitor shared, “The campground is right on the 50-mile Batona Trail, so it's a great stop-over assuming you've made reservations.” It’s a great spot for water activities.
  • Family Activities: Check out the amenities at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. One camper noted, “There was so much to do there: a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow, and even more.” This campground is perfect for families looking for fun.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Lums Pond State Park Campground. A reviewer said, “Nice smaller campground with large spacious sites. Very level and spaced apart from neighbor if you pick the right spots.” This makes for a more comfortable camping experience.
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. One camper remarked, “The bathrooms were the cleanest I’ve ever seen on any campgrounds ever. Sparkling.” Clean facilities can make a big difference in your stay.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. A visitor shared, “Everyone we came in contact with staff-wise was so friendly.” Good service can enhance your camping experience.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Batona — Wharton State Forest, have basic facilities. A reviewer noted, “Bathrooms are very basic. Fresh water pump is located at the entrance to the campground.” Be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Noise Levels: If you’re sensitive to noise, consider your site carefully. At Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest, one camper mentioned, “There is also a fair amount of plane traffic from a small local airport.” Choose a quieter spot if you want peace.
  • Seasonal Water Availability: Be aware that some campgrounds, like Batona — Wharton State Forest, have seasonal water. A visitor pointed out, “Water is seasonal. Be bear aware.” Always check the campground details before your trip.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. One parent said, “They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget.” This can keep the little ones entertained.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, a camper advised, “If it rains, some sites are flooded.” Make sure to choose safe spots for your family.
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy meal options. A camper at Old Cedar Campground mentioned, “The pool was nice and clean. Wifi worked well enough for us to stream Netflix and YouTube.” Having meals planned can save time and stress.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA noted, “The 50-amp electric was good as was the water pressure.” This can make your stay much more comfortable.
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A reviewer at Batona — Wharton State Forest said, “The road into the campground is sand.” Make sure your RV can handle the terrain.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials. A camper at Hospitality Creek Campground mentioned, “The site was a good size, covered in heavy mulch, and is level.” Having everything you need can make your trip smoother.

Camping near Essington, Pennsylvania, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Essington, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Essington, PA is Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 20 reviews.