French Creek State Park Campground offers pet-friendly accommodations within a 7,526-acre wilderness located about 15 miles southeast of Reading. The park provides campers with 200 individual sites spread across four loops at elevations ranging from 500-800 feet. Loop C is specifically designated for pets, allowing campers with dogs to enjoy the natural setting while remaining compliant with park regulations. Tent sites and RV sites with electric hookups provide options for various camping styles throughout the park's year-round operational season.
What to do
Explore boulder fields: At Blue Rocks Family Campground, visitors can experience unique geological formations. "Our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" reports Terri S. The campground features a glacier rock field that creates distinctive hiking and climbing opportunities.
Try disc golf courses: Boulder Woods Campground offers an extensive disc golf course popular with enthusiasts. "The course is huge and brings in groups who play for the day. They sell disc golf things in the store as well," notes Karralee B. First-timers can rent equipment directly from the campground store to test this increasingly popular outdoor activity.
Fish in stocked ponds: Many campgrounds feature fishing opportunities in natural waterways. At Robin Hill Campground, "There is a pond for fishing however we didn't have any luck. It had a lot of pond scum and there were a lot of duck families around," shares Jen R. Most ponds are catch-and-release, so check specific campground regulations before casting.
What campers like
Creek access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Trexlertown feature natural water features. At Tohickon Family Campground, "There is a stream with fishing" that provides cooling relief during summer months. "The rustic barn and meadow by the creek was exactly what my wife and I wanted for our special day," notes Harry L., highlighting how water features enhance the camping experience.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during spring or fall offers quieter camping experiences. "Spend the month of June 2021 at the campground. Full most of the time but, clean and beautiful. Never any loud noise even on the weekends," reports M.W. about Pine Hill RV Park. The campground remains open from April through November, with fewer crowds during shoulder seasons.
Hiking trail access: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. "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," writes Darrien K. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. Trails vary from short loops suitable for dogs to more challenging routes connecting to the Appalachian Trail network.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Spring camping often means dealing with mud, especially in tent areas. "We had a great Halloween weekend but we were down by creek so it was very muddy," reports Shannon C. about Tohickon Family Campground. Similarly, at Quakerwoods Campground, "The tent spots are pretty much on top of each other, not much privacy. It's next to a farm so the sunrise is pretty nice," notes Addam C.
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies dramatically between campgrounds. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," says Jen R. In contrast, at other campgrounds sites can feel crowded, especially during peak summer weekends.
Seasonal campground limitations: Many pet-friendly campgrounds close during winter months. "Sites are swampy if they've had rain! Took us over two hours to disconnect because of mushy, muddy site!" warns Linda F. about spring conditions at Robin Hill. Most campgrounds near Trexlertown operate April through November, with limited year-round options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple pet-friendly campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Allentown KOA, "2 different playgrounds and a pool that could use some updating," notes Brandon W. Playgrounds provide entertainment options when kids need breaks from hiking or other activities.
Kid-friendly water features: Streams and creeks offer natural play areas during warmer months. "Loved being right next to the stream. No fish in sight though," reports Kelly J. about Allentown KOA. These natural water features provide cooling entertainment while supervised.
Weekend activities: Scheduled weekend events enhance family experiences at many campgrounds. "The campground has a very large calendar, and although I personally have never participated, I know that other campers have a wonderful time," shares Lorie O. about Blue Rocks Family Campground. Activities often include hayrides, themed weekends, and outdoor movies during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Paved site pads make setup easier at certain locations. "Our site was level and nicely graded. We didn't have any trouble getting in and out and all the hook-ups were well-placed," reports Nancy W. about Pine Hill RV Park. This becomes especially important for larger rigs or first-time campers.
Hookup quality varies: Electrical service differs significantly between campgrounds. At Boulder Woods Campground, "It worked out great as we were able to get a full hookup without having to pay anything extra!" notes Jen R. Always check amperage availability when booking, as some sites offer only 30-amp service while others provide 50-amp connections.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow approach roads or covered bridges limiting access. "Getting here was a little tricky having to go around the covered bridge but not anything that would ever deter me and my family from coming back," shares Richard D. about Tohickon Family Campground. Check campground websites for specific approach directions and any vehicle size limitations.
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