Best Campgrounds near Swarthmore, PA

The suburban landscape surrounding Swarthmore, Pennsylvania provides a surprising variety of camping experiences within an hour's drive of this Philadelphia-area college town. Established campgrounds like Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA in New Jersey (20 minutes from Philadelphia) and Philadelphia-West Chester KOA along the Brandywine River offer full hookups, cabins, and family amenities including swimming pools and recreational activities. For those seeking more natural settings, French Creek State Park, located about 40 miles northwest of Swarthmore, features 200 campsites across four loops with varying levels of amenities from primitive tent sites to full hookup RV spots, plus cabins and yurts. Ridley Creek State Park, much closer to Swarthmore, provides group camping facilities in a wooded setting.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the region. Most private campgrounds operate year-round, though with reduced services in winter months. As one camper noted, "The campground is right on the Brandywine River which is great for paddling, but some riverside sites can get muddy after rain." Pennsylvania state parks maintain consistent facilities, with "modern, clean restrooms" frequently mentioned in reviews, though some amenities like pools and boat rentals typically operate only from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Road access varies considerably, with some campgrounds featuring "narrow and windy" approaches that can challenge larger RVs. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though signal strength may diminish in more remote areas of state parks.

Water access represents a significant draw for many campsites in the area. Wharton State Forest in New Jersey's Pine Barrens region offers what one visitor called "spacious sites with lake-side water access" where "you can launch kayaks right from your campsite." Sites near water bodies tend to book quickly, especially during summer months. Noise levels vary dramatically based on proximity to major highways like I-95 and I-476. Urban camping options exist for those needing convenient access to Philadelphia, though these typically involve parking lot overnight stays with minimal amenities. For tent campers, several reviewers noted the rocky terrain at some state park sites, recommending careful site selection when bringing larger family tents. Most campgrounds in the region are well-maintained with clean facilities, though site privacy can be limited during peak season.

Best Camping Sites Near Swarthmore, Pennsylvania (117)

    1. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    9 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
    6 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

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $24 - $122 / 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
    20 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."

    6. Lums Pond State Park Campground

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

    $27 - $45 / 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
    20 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."

    9. Fort Washington State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Ambler, PA
    18 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."

    "Come for Militia Hill, hawk watching, cross country ski, or disc golf, and the trails along the Wissahickon Creek."

    10. 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."

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Recent Reviews near Swarthmore, PA

831 Reviews of 117 Swarthmore Campgrounds


  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.


Guide to Swarthmore

Camping options near Swarthmore, Pennsylvania extend beyond established campgrounds into diverse recreational areas within a 40-mile radius. The region sits at the confluence of the Piedmont Plateau and Atlantic Coastal Plain, creating varied terrain from rocky hillsides to flat riverside camping spots. Winter camping remains viable at several year-round facilities, though campers should note that temperatures typically drop to the mid-20s from December through February.

What to do

Water activities on Brandywine River: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA sits directly on the Brandywine River where visitors can rent canoes. As one camper noted, "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground. There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages. They also have pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool."

Birdwatching at Fort Washington State Park Campground: The park features an observation deck specifically for hawk watching during migration seasons. A visitor mentioned, "Should you call yourself a bird watcher, you'll be particularly interested as from this very spot you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis in both the Spring and Autumn."

Ziplining and adventure courses: French Creek State Park offers extensive recreational options beyond standard camping. One camper shared, "We LOVE camping here as the campsites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well. There are three separate loops to camp at, Loop C is the only loop that allows pets."

What campers like

Quiet waterfront campsites: At Tinicum Island, accessible only by boat, campers enjoy complete seclusion just minutes from Philadelphia. One reviewer simply stated, "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft," highlighting the unique boat-in-only camping experience.

Well-maintained facilities: Lums Pond State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its upkeep. A recent visitor commented, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."

Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds in the region prioritize site separation. At French Creek State Park, sites are designed with natural buffers. One camper observed, "There are so many trees and brush in between most sites you can't even really see your neighbors."

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Swarthmore require advance booking, especially during summer months. Lums Pond State Park fills quickly, with one camper noting, "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond."

Limited tent options: Old Cedar Campground offers primarily RV-focused sites. A camper pointed out, "We got there, the host wasn't very friendly. We had to pay $50 per night for a tent site that was sandy mud."

Group camping restrictions: Several parks near Swarthmore only permit group camping rather than individual sites. At Ridley Creek State Park, a camper clarified, "Love Ridley and their trails. However, there is only group tenting here."

Winter accessibility: Many private campgrounds remain open year-round with reduced services. One winter camper at French Creek State Park shared, "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."

Tips for camping with families

Playground quality: Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA offers excellent child-friendly facilities. A parent noted, "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more."

Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities beyond natural water bodies. At Four Seasons Family Campground, a visitor highlighted, "Very nice campground with plenty of things to do for the kids. Beautiful pool, very nice playground and arcade."

Educational opportunities: The region offers historical and educational sites near camping areas. At Fort Washington State Park, a visitor explained, "This very place lies in significance from the Revolutionary War when it housed troops led by then General George Washington on the way to Valley Forge."

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Philly Love Boats at Pier 5 Marina offers an unusual urban camping experience with limited hookups but proximity to city attractions. Although reviews are limited, one camper stated, "I am definitely going to give this a shot this looks very peaceful."

Site sizing and angles: Large RVs may encounter challenges at some campgrounds. One RVer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA warned, "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road."

Shared utilities: At Old Cedar Campground, water hookups aren't always convenient. A camper advised, "The water hookups are shared every other site. I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Swarthmore, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Swarthmore, PA is Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 20 reviews.