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."
