French Creek State Park provides a more rugged camping experience than the glamping options advertised near Red Hill, Pennsylvania. Located in Chester County with elevations reaching 600 feet, the park's 7,526 acres of mixed hardwood forest creates a microclimate that's typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding areas. Most traditional tent and RV sites at French Creek have basic amenities without the luxury furnishings of the glamping sites, allowing for a more traditional outdoor experience.
What to do
Disc golf competition: Boulder Woods Campground features an exceptional 18-hole disc golf course that attracts serious players. "The disc golf course is phenomenal and brings in groups who play for the day," according to a camper at Boulder Woods Campground. The course winds through wooded terrain, providing technical challenges for experienced players.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer year-round fishing access for various species. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," notes a reviewer from French Creek State Park.
Hiking exploration: Trail systems connect many campgrounds in the area with varying difficulty levels. "Green Lane Park is a beautiful park with several well marked trails for hiking. The campgrounds are clean but the sites are way too close together and there is not any privacy," observes a camper at Green Lane Park.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Lake Towhee County Park offers secluded camping spots that provide a sense of isolation. "Very secluded and set back in the woods, but only a short drive to Nockamixon. Would definitely stay again!" reports a camper at Lake Towhee County Park.
Level camping pads: Many campgrounds feature improved tent and RV sites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," notes a visitor to French Creek State Park. This practical feature makes setting up camp significantly easier.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom facilities are available at most campgrounds. "Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes," mentions a reviewer at Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park who appreciated the practical amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: While some campgrounds operate year-round, many have limited seasons. "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," notes a winter camper at French Creek State Park.
Weather considerations: The area's terrain creates specific camping challenges. "If you don't want to hang around the campground there are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," suggests a reviewer, highlighting alternative activities during inclement weather.
Yurt camping restrictions: Yurt camping at Red Hill area parks typically requires advance booking. At Quakerwoods Campground, "They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent. The staff is always friendly and it's always great time," according to a regular visitor. Unlike glamping options, standard yurts may have fewer luxury amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line. All kids and adults agreed it was the most fun!" shares a family at French Creek State Park.
Boulder exploration: Unique geological features provide natural play areas. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. Primitive but fun!" reports a family who stayed at Blue Rocks Family Campground, highlighting how natural features can entertain children.
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events for families. "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax and have a bite to eat. We have also attending an Orienteering event here which was nation wide and really exciting," mentions a repeat visitor describing organized activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers recommend specific areas within campgrounds. "We have visited Quakerwoods campground three years in a row with a large group including several kids. As a group of about 40, we typically take up the entire section of sites 101-105 during an annual Fall camping trip. The sites provide electric hook-up and water," advises an RV camper.
Hookup availability: Water and electric access varies significantly between campgrounds. "Upon arrival we realized that our camper was not going to fit on the site we reserved. The office was very easy to work with and we easily traded sites. It worked out great as we were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra!" shares an RV owner at Tohickon Family Campground.
Size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. "I do not advise large rigs," warns a 70-year-old camper with a 17-foot trailer at Lake Towhee Park. This practical advice prevents uncomfortable arrivals with oversized equipment at campgrounds with limited access.
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