The Delaware River Valley area surrounding Chester provides diverse camping options within a 30-mile radius. Most campgrounds near Chester sit at elevations below 400 feet, with the terrain gradually rising toward western sites like French Creek State Park, which reaches elevations near 800 feet. The region typically experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F from June through August, while spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Water activities on Lums Pond: 100-acre freshwater pond with electric-only motors. Visitors to Lums Pond State Park Campground can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and paddling. "There are two lakes in French Creek, Hopewell and Scott's Run and each contain many species of fish. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," noted one visitor to nearby French Creek State Park.
Horseback riding: BYO horse only. French Creek State Park offers designated equestrian trails. A visitor commented: "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike."
Off-leash dog parks: Lums Pond offers dedicated pet areas. "There's an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp. Book early because it fills up fast!" advised one camper. The park's pet-friendly areas provide space for dogs to run while maintaining dedicated zones for other activities.
What campers like
Spacious sites at state parks: Premium sites feature concrete pads. 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. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers. Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean." State park campgrounds generally offer more space between sites than private campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Bath houses regularly maintained. Campers frequently mention the clean facilities at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA: "The bathrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds." Facility cleanliness varies by campground, with state parks sometimes receiving mixed reviews on bathroom maintenance.
Proximity to Philadelphia attractions: Multiple options for city exploration. When staying at Ridley Creek State Park, visitors appreciate the easy access to urban attractions. The park's group camping area is especially popular for organized outings: "This place is great for first time campers. I go camping here almost every year and they a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits."
What you should know
Limited cell service in some areas: Coverage gaps at certain campgrounds. While most established campgrounds maintain reliable service, some waterfront areas experience limited connectivity. For reliable service, Philadelphia-West Chester KOA offers "fairly fast but was prone to disconnects" wifi according to visitors.
Reservation requirements: Book well in advance for popular times. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns one camper about Lums Pond. Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Chester require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays.
Seasonal availability: Limited winter options near Chester. While Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA remains open year-round, other campgrounds like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park operate only from April through October. One winter camper at French Creek noted: "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities: Multiple options for children. Old Cedar Campground offers various activities: "Friendly campground with plenty of things to do for the kids. Beautiful pool, very nice playground and arcade. The fishing was good everytime we've went." Many campgrounds in the Chester area feature playgrounds, pools, and organized activities.
Safety considerations: Choose campgrounds with controlled access. Old Cedar Campground employs strict rules that enhance safety. "The website, posted signs, confirmation email, and check-in instructions all included a list of strict rules regarding conduct while on property and everyone seemed to abide by them during our stay."
Educational opportunities: History and nature programs. Families can combine camping with educational experiences at parks near historical sites. At French Creek State Park, visitors can access nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, which offers living history programs on weekends during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Premium sites with comprehensive amenities. Tinicum Island offers a unique contrast to the RV-friendly options nearby, as it's only accessible by boat. For RVers, Lums Pond State Park Campground provides excellent full hookup sites: "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
Big rig accessibility: Site selection crucial for larger vehicles. When visiting with larger motorhomes, careful site selection is essential. One RVer warned: "Heads up, big rig owners! Tight squeeze into Site 25. Get cozy, the sites are quite small and tightly packed together." Always check length restrictions before booking.
Seasonal considerations: Limited winter operations. Most RV parks near Chester close seasonally. For winter camping options, one camper noted at French Creek State Park: "The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early, make sure you have cash on you as it was unclear if checks were accepted."
