Campgrounds near Shartlesville sit within Berks County's rolling hillsides at elevations between 500-800 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions. Roads to campgrounds in this area can be narrow with uneven terrain, especially after rainfall when some unpaved routes become challenging to navigate.
What to Do
Fishing ponds and lakes: Both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake at French Creek State Park Campground offer multiple species for anglers. "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.
Hiking to viewpoints: Hiking trails at Blue Rocks Family Campground connect to the Appalachian Trail system. "It's right at the base of one of the most popular hiking trail, The Pinnacle. It's nestled in the woods and is very rustic," states Darrien K. Another camper adds, "Lovely camp site with access to a lot of amenities, all the while keeping a 'primative' feel... Super easy access to Appalachian trail. Trail heads begin inside the campsite."
Fall color viewing: The wooded sites at many campgrounds make excellent fall foliage viewing locations. "PA is beautiful in the fall. Nice campground with some trails and access to Pottsville - for the best brewery tour ever - Yeungling! Check out the Jim Thorpe fall fest and Hershey Park," suggests a camper at Locust Lake State Park.
What Campers Like
Level, maintained sites: Many visitors appreciate that French Creek State Park Campground offers paved areas for easy setup. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," explains Jen R.
Unique accommodations: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers distinctive lodging options beyond standard campsites. "There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others," notes a reviewer. The campground has themed cabins and yurts for those seeking alternative camping experiences.
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate the recreational options at campgrounds. "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," shares Katie M. about French Creek State Park.
What You Should Know
Weather impacts: Be prepared for quick-changing weather conditions, especially at Locust Lake State Park Campground. "We had 3 families and sites (2 campers & 1 tent) all sites were decent sizes. We had lake front access to put kayaks in and fish which was awesome. Great walking path around lake for kids to ride bikes to parks or beach... Only downside to our trip was poured every night and one whole day," reports Dawn R.
Boulder field exploration: Blue Rocks Family Campground features a unique glacier rock field formation. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" says Terri S. Another visitor adds, "Our campsite had a great view of the glacier rock field and the corn field."
Pay showers: Some state parks and private campgrounds charge for shower use. A visitor to Hickory Run notes, "The bath houses were a little different, you have to pay $.25 to take a shower. We weren't expecting that!"
Site selection: Choose carefully, especially during rainy periods. "Sites 100-116 we mad, it rained and the water ran down hill. These people had a mess at there sites," mentions a camper about Hickory Run Family Camping Resort.
Tips for Camping with Families
Boulder field activities: The rock formations at Blue Rocks provide natural playground areas. "This place really has something for everyone! Classic cars, huge playground, lots of activities, friendly staff. The best part was hiking in the boulder field!" states Gayle B.
Playground access: Jonestown/Hershey KOA offers multiple play areas for children. "Decent spaces between sites, with a smaller section for tents than RVs. Tent sites also have raised pads/beds for the tents to be set up and have options near the creek for both tents and RVs," notes Marlaina M.
Creek activities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Shartlesville often feature water access points. "We stayed at Appalachian to visit a friend who has a seasonal site. Our site was full hook up... It was in a good location - near the ponds, pool, office, and bathhouse - but was still quiet!" shares Becca U.
Wildlife viewing: Younger children enjoy animal encounters at several campgrounds. "Goats to pet and watch. There are a lot of really neat and different rentals here like a tree house, double decker bus, among others. Nice playground for the kids and a small arcade," says a visitor to Lake-in-Wood.
Tips from RVers
Narrow access roads: Several campgrounds in the Shartlesville area have challenging approach roads. "Pull through spots are long but very narrow. Variety of sites for whatever your needs are," notes Mike J. about Mountain Springs Camping Resort.
Site leveling considerations: Be prepared with leveling blocks at most area campgrounds. "Sites were a little small and rocky/rooty, but we made it work," shares Joe F. about his experience at Locust Lake.
Optimal site selection: Hickory Run Family Camping Resort has specific areas that work better for RVs. "Sites are best in the 140-160 loop," advises Tamara P. Another visitor adds, "You definitely want to be on the top of the hill or right below the country store. The people from Sites 100-116 we mad, it rained and the water ran down hill."
Pet-friendly loops: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Shartlesville have designated pet areas. "We have never stayed in Loop C before. This is the only loop that allows pets. I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop," notes Ranger Jen about French Creek.
