Best Campgrounds near Rose Valley, PA

Campgrounds near Rose Valley, Pennsylvania range from full-service facilities to basic tent sites within a short drive of Philadelphia. The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA provides tent, RV, and cabin accommodations approximately 15 miles west of Rose Valley, while French Creek State Park Campground offers a more natural setting with tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, yurts, and glamping options. These established campgrounds typically include amenities such as electrical hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restrooms, with some offering recreational facilities like swimming pools, hiking trails, and boat rentals.

Advance reservations are strongly recommended for most campgrounds in the region, particularly during the peak summer season when Philadelphia residents seek outdoor escapes. Most developed sites in the area remain open year-round, though amenities may be limited during winter months. The terrain throughout the region consists of rolling hills and wooded areas with some waterfront camping options along rivers and lakes. Road access to most established campgrounds is well-maintained, making them accessible for standard vehicles and RVs. A review noted that "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."

Philadelphia-area campgrounds receive positive feedback for their proximity to urban attractions while maintaining a natural feel. Campers particularly value waterfront sites, with several reviews highlighting locations that offer river access for paddling or fishing. French Creek State Park receives praise for its hiking trails and recreational amenities, though some mention that certain sites can feel crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. As one camper observed about the French Creek sites, "The sites that aren't ADA have more space between them," indicating variation in site layout and privacy. For those seeking a balance between amenities and natural surroundings, the campgrounds within 30 miles of Rose Valley provide convenient access to both outdoor recreation and urban attractions like Valley Forge National Historical Park and Philadelphia's cultural sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Rose Valley, Pennsylvania (116)

    1. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    10 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
    5 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. French Creek State Park Campground

    80 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / 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."

    4. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    19 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."

    5. Lums Pond State Park Campground

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

    $22 - $40 / 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."

    7. Old Cedar Campground

    11 Reviews
    Monroeville, NJ
    21 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."

    8. Four Seasons Family Campground

    8 Reviews
    Pilesgrove, NJ
    20 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."

    9. Fort Washington State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Ambler, PA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 591-5250

    $28 - $72 / night

    "It's almost 500 acres filled with trails, woods,and river. I usually go to the parking right off of Militia hill rd.and Skippack Pike intersection."

    "m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly"

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Recent Reviews near Rose Valley, PA

839 Reviews of 116 Rose Valley Campgrounds


  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Dog owners read!

    There’s four loops. All connected A through D. We just needed a place to park and sleep so I got D011. Got there at 11pm and the D loop says no pets allowed. Not sure why when they are at every other loop but we had no where else to go and the area is pretty far off from anywhere else so the ol lab stayed in the camper. The bathrooms are tile and really nice with showers. And it was really quiet and chilly so a nice fall camp site. Just know ahead of time if you’re a dog owner!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Village Scene Park

    Tucked-Away Community Vibe

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Convenient suburban location near Philadelphia yet surprisingly quiet; (2) Full-hookup RV sites with 30 / 50 amp, water, and sewer; (3) Affordable rates compared to other campgrounds in the region; (4) Smaller, tight-knit atmosphere with friendly long-term residents; (5) Pet-friendly, with walking areas and green space; and (6) Nearby restaurants include Franconi’s Pizzeria for classic pies and cheesesteaks and Appalachian Brewing Company with pub fare and house-brewed beers. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Sites are narrow and can feel cramped, so don’t expect big pull-throughs; (2) Limited amenities with no pool, clubhouse, or playground; (3) Grounds feel more like a residential mobile home park than a campground; (4) Some infrastructure is dated and could use upgrades; and (5) Not much in the way of natural scenery because, um, this is urban camping. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Batona — Wharton State Forest

    Good spot to sleep

    The camp road was kinda hard to get around direction wise you couldn’t tell what was a road and what was a campsite. It was Saturday night and only two other campers but one was a huge group but thankfully not too loud. Two pit toilets that was pretty bad shape but we are used to disperse camping without toilets so we didn’t complain.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Great place to stay!

    This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff. Our site was asphalt, that was a treat, tho not all of them were...

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Washington Crossing State Park - TEMP CLOSED FOR 2024

    History and Camping with Revolutionary Limits

    Washington Crossing Historic Park, straddling Pennsylvania and New Jersey along the Delaware River, is one of those rare places where you can literally camp in history. The Pennsylvania side is all about historic buildings, museums and picnic spots, while the New Jersey side (Washington Crossing State Park) offers organized group tent camping. This isn’t the place for a cushy RV getaway or individual tenters looking to sneak in for the night, but rather a structured, group-style camping steeped in Revolutionary War atmosphere. First impressions? More Boy Scout jamboree than weekend getaway, but if you’re here for camaraderie and heritage, you’ve hit the mark.

    Facilities are deliberately minimal. On the Pennsylvania side, camping is limited to a handful of Scout-designated sites with portable toilets, no running water and zero frills. Across the river in New Jersey, the official group camping area provides open tent-only sites with no hookups, no pets and strict quiet hours. Think old-school camping: fire rings, pit toilets and a heavy dose of ‘leave no trace’ ethos. Reservations are required, permits are non-negotiable and the max stay tops out at 14 nights. What you do get is a wide, peaceful forest setting with plenty of space for tents, youth groups or scout troops along with the kind of simplicity that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

    Beyond the tent pads, the surrounding parks are rich with history and outdoor options. On the Pennsylvania side, you’ll find the visitor center, historic McConkey’s Ferry Inn, Bowman’s Hill Tower, and interpretive programs that bring the Revolutionary War era to life. Picnic areas and a boat launch offer ways to enjoy the Delaware River. In New Jersey, miles of wooded trails lead you through rolling hills and historic landscapes, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It’s a spot where history buffs, scouts and nature seekers can all find common ground.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a handful: (1) The best group sites are the ones tucked furthest from the trailhead as (surprise, surprise) they’re quieter and offer more privacy; (2) Stock up before arriving, as there are no supply stores inside the park, so head on over to nearby Weis Markets in Langhorne or ShopRite in Fairless Hills, both of which are on the PA-side; (3) Be sure to bring all your own water as none is available onsite; (4) Kayakers should launch from the Pennsylvania side’s boat access for an iconic paddle on the Delaware River; (5) Visit the park’s historic reenactments, especially the Christmas Day Crossing event as it’s easily the most memorable history lesson you’ll ever get outdoors; and (6) When you’re done camping, fuel up at It’s Nutts Restaurant on the Jersey side in Titusville for classic diner-style comfort food or Francisco’s on the River for Italian fare with Delaware River views.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • Scott K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Winding River Campground

    Great Place

    Really enjoyed everything about this place. Kayaks. Camping. All of it. Clean and friendly.


Guide to Rose Valley

Camping near Rose Valley, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun," highlighting the great outdoor activities available.
  • Fishing and Kayaking: At Elk Neck State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A reviewer shared, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals," making it a perfect spot for water lovers.
  • Family Activities: Lake-In-Wood Campground features a kiddie pool and mini-golf. One family said, "The campground is very well maintained, and the staff is very nice," making it a great choice for families.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Blue Rocks Family Campground. A visitor noted, "Clean campground. Very well organized," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the bathrooms. One review for Elk Neck State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms are immaculate," which is a big plus for many.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Campgrounds like French Creek State Park Campground allow pets, making it easier for families to bring their furry friends along. A camper mentioned, "Very spacious sites," which is great for pets to roam.

What you should know:

  • Alcohol Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Elk Neck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A visitor pointed out, "NO alcohol allowed," so plan accordingly.
  • Site Proximity: At Susquehanna State Park Campground, some sites are close together. One camper noted, "The sites are fairly small and some of them are right on top of each other," which might not suit everyone.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest have limited amenities. A review mentioned, "The bathrooms are the typical old NJ state park set up," so be prepared for rustic conditions.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Lake-In-Wood Campground that offer activities for kids. One family said, "There is a kiddie pool, as well as an indoor/outdoor pool," which keeps the little ones entertained.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out local attractions. A reviewer at Elk Neck State Park Campground mentioned, "We went on a hike to check out the lighthouse," which can be a fun family outing.
  • Pack Snacks and Games: Bring along snacks and games for downtime. A camper at Blue Rocks Family Campground shared, "We have a blast!! So much hiking to do," indicating that downtime can be just as enjoyable.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers should pay attention to site sizes at places like Lums Pond State Park Campground. One review noted, "Very level and spaced apart from neighbor if you pick the right spots."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spots: Some campgrounds may have tight navigation. A visitor at Lake-In-Wood Campground mentioned, "Some tight spots to navigate through," so plan your route carefully.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds have limited stores, it's wise to bring extra supplies. A camper at Turkey Swamp Park said, "The camp store was well stocked," but it's always good to have backups.

Camping near Rose Valley, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just enjoying time with family, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Rose Valley Campground?

Rose Valley Campground typically offers standard amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restroom facilities. While not as developed as larger campgrounds like Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, which offers full hookups and recreational amenities, Rose Valley provides a more rustic camping experience. The campground features wooded sites with some shade, basic toilets, and designated camping areas. For campers seeking more amenities, French Creek State Park Campground nearby offers additional facilities including hiking trails, a lake, and more developed bathroom facilities.

Can you fish at Rose Valley Lake while camping?

Yes, fishing is permitted at Rose Valley Lake, making it a popular activity for campers. The lake is stocked with various fish species and provides good opportunities for shore fishing. Similar to Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest, where campers enjoy waterfront access and can launch kayaks from their sites, Rose Valley offers water recreation options. Remember to have a valid Pennsylvania fishing license when fishing at Rose Valley Lake. The fishing area is accessible from the campground, allowing for convenient angling during your stay.

How much does it cost to camp at Rose Valley?

Rose Valley Campground typically charges between $15-25 per night for standard tent sites, placing it in the affordable range for Pennsylvania camping. Prices may vary seasonally and for different site types. For comparison, Alverthorpe Private Park in the region charges similar rates for its basic amenities. Group sites at Rose Valley may have different pricing structures. Some nearby alternatives like Fort Washington State Park Campground have comparable rates with additional reservation fees. Check the official website or call ahead for the most current pricing information as rates may change.