French Creek State Park and surrounding campgrounds near Spring City, Pennsylvania offer varied camping experiences within the southeastern Pennsylvania woodlands. Located in Chester County at elevations between 400-600 feet, the area experiences typical Mid-Atlantic seasonal variations with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through October, though French Creek State Park maintains year-round camping with winter sites available in select loops.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At French Creek State Park Campground, anglers can fish in either Scotts Run Lake or Hopewell Lake. "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 camper.
Hiking trail exploration: The park features multiple marked trails for all skill levels. "There is a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks. A huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. There are trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake," mentions a regular visitor.
Disc golf courses: Boulder Woods Campground offers a dedicated disc golf course that draws enthusiasts. "The camp ground has a very large golf disc course and they seem to have tournaments. They sell disc golf things in the store as well. This course is huge and brings in groups who play for the day," explains one reviewer.
Historic site visits: The region features several historic locations near camping areas. "Not to mention close by there is Hopewell National Furnace and St. Peter's Village with shops and restaurants and hiking trails as well," shares a frequent camper detailing the cultural attractions that complement the natural setting.
What campers like
Private camping spaces: Hibernia County Park offers secluded sites within a wooded environment. "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," writes one camper who appreciates the solitude.
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds in the area remain open during colder months. "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.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean facilities across several campgrounds. "The bathrooms were nice and clean, showers were nice. There are a few bath houses that make the large camp ground have easy access to the bathrooms which I appreciated," states a visitor to Boulder Woods Campground.
Budget-friendly options: Primitive camping provides affordable alternatives. "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," notes a visitor to Hibernia County Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA and other popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We spent the Memorial Day weekend at Philadelphia/ West Chester KOA Holiday in Coatesville, PA and had a good time. We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site#25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept."
Site spacing varies: The proximity between campsites differs significantly between campgrounds. "The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them," cautions a reviewer about Green Lane Park, contrasting with more private options elsewhere.
Weather preparation: The area experiences heavy rain periods that affect camping conditions. "Don't come if your in a tent And It Has Been or will rain, It Becomes Flooded or turns into A mudPit," warns a camper at Tohickon Campground, highlighting terrain drainage issues common in the region.
Seasonal limitations: Facilities availability changes throughout the year. "We were there in October, so the pool was closed, but it looked nice. We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely!" shares a French Creek visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Lake-In-Wood Campground provides multiple child-friendly areas. "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 an enthusiastic parent.
Unique accommodation choices: Glamping near Spring City, Pennsylvania includes distinctive lodging options beyond standard tents. "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," notes a family who explored alternative sleeping arrangements at Lake-In-Wood.
Junior fishing spots: Dedicated fishing areas for children exist at some parks. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," mentions a visitor to Hibernia Park, highlighting age-appropriate activities.
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds host special weekends for families. "The weekend we were there they had A chicken dinner. It was actually very good. We experienced the hayride around the campground," reports a Lake-In-Wood camper, describing organized activities.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Tohickon Family Campground and others present navigation challenges. "Nice new gravel and hook ups. Spacious sites. Large stream with fishing. WiFi good. ATT poor," notes a recent visitor, providing practical information about connectivity and site conditions.
Leveling requirements: French Creek provides paved pads but terrain varies. "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," mentions a visitor, highlighting the importance of site preparation.
Hook-up availability: Electrical and water connections differ between campgrounds and specific loops. "If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank. There is one spigot at the bathroom," advises a camper at Hibernia County Park, pointing out limited utility access.
Dump station access: Not all parks provide on-site waste disposal. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," cautions an RVer about Hibernia County Park's limitations.
