Camping opportunities surrounding Hatboro, Pennsylvania provide access to the rolling hills of the Mid-Atlantic region and the Delaware River Valley. Located within the Piedmont Plateau, most campgrounds sit between 200-500 feet above sea level, creating moderate terrain suitable for both novice and experienced campers. The area experiences humid continental climate with warm summers averaging 85°F and cool springs and falls with nighttime temperatures often dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing in multiple lakes: At French Creek State Park Campground, campers can fish in two different bodies of water. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish, kayak, canoe or just relax by. There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes one visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing: Several water recreation opportunities exist at Turkey Swamp Park where seasonal equipment rentals are available. "There is a lake with a boat dock and a small boardwalk. Kayaking/Canoeing, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, canoe, kayak, paddle boats, and row boats are available for rental," writes one camper about the facilities.
Hiking on marked trails: Brendan Byrne State Forest offers extensive trail networks through native pine forests. "Lots of trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake, and an amphitheater at the campground where they hold events and Sunday morning church services," says a regular visitor. The forest contains several miles of hiking paths through distinctive Pine Barrens ecology.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Mountainview Campground receives consistent praise for site layout. "Our spot was #27 and pretty spacious. The showers were free and clean with hot water and decent pressure. The landing for the camper was even with gravel and the rest of the site was mostly even," reports a camper. Another notes, "The campsites are spacious and the facilities are clean. Short drive to the Delaware River for tubing."
Natural setting: The wooded setting at many area campgrounds appeals to those seeking a nature-focused experience. A visitor to Hibernia County Park wrote, "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake, spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire."
Wildlife encounters: For those interested in observing native wildlife, several campgrounds offer opportunities. At Camp Starry Night at Gulyan Farms, one camper reported, "The best part of this trip was definitely the views. You look out over the field and see the mountains in the background with the river running between them and it just takes your breath away."
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: While seeking horse-friendly camping near Hatboro, Pennsylvania can be challenging, understanding campground limitations helps with planning. At Spruce Run Recreation Area, a camper noted, "The overall park itself is very nice during the day," though they don't specifically accommodate horses. Contact nearby stables for day-use arrangements while camping.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Spruce Run shared, "The bathrooms were absolutely disgusting. I thought with COVID they were cleaning them more, but for the entire weekend, someone's #2 remained all over the toilet, floor, and corner wall." Bringing sanitizing supplies is recommended.
Pet policies differ: While exploring horse camping options near Hatboro, check pet policies. At French Creek State Park, "Loop C 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," reports a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities. A visitor to Brendan Byrne State Forest noted, "Nice and quiet, sites are spaced out enough to offer privacy. Good trees for hammocking! Plenty of room for a few tents at each site. 1 bathroom a short walk from the sites, and hiking trails are walkable."
Fishing for kids: At Hibernia County Park, special fishing opportunities exist for younger anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," writes one visitor. Another notes, "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under."
Water activities: Turkey Swamp Park offers family-friendly water recreation options. "We went camping with our 2- and 3-year-old kids. We were worried about bugs, but we didn't even use mosquito repellent and didn't get a single bite! The campground was super clean too. It was perfect!" shares one parent.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: While seeking equestrian-friendly camping options around Hatboro is limited, RV setups vary significantly. At French Creek State Park, "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room. It was nice to just be able to back up our camper and have it mostly level already."
Water access challenges: At Hibernia County Park, one RVer shared: "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. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'."
Site leveling considerations: Mountainview Campground receives positive reviews for site quality. "The power station was well intact with 15/20, 30, and 50amp. Overall it was a nice stay and served our purpose. We don't need frills like a pool so we enjoyed it and would go again," mentioned an RV camper.
