French Creek State Park Campground offers diverse camping experiences within a 7,526-acre Pennsylvania state park located about 15 miles southeast of Reading. The park features multiple camping loops with varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites to those with electric hookups. Most sites have paved level areas making setup easier, while maintaining natural surroundings with ample shade and separation between neighboring campsites. Winter camping options exist for those seeking off-season adventures near Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: French Creek State Park Campground provides access to two lakes stocked with various fish species. "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 one reviewer.
Disc golf adventure: Boulder Woods Campground features an extensive disc golf course that attracts enthusiasts. "They do have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf," shared a camper who discovered a new hobby while staying at the facility.
Historical exploration: Plan day trips to nearby Valley Forge National Historical Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. "Not to mention close by there is Hopewell National Furnace and St. Peter's Village with shops and restaurants and hiking trails as well," explains a frequent visitor to the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At French Creek State Park, campers appreciate the natural separation. "The campground is laid out well. There are three separate loops to camp at, Loop C is the only loop that allows pets, plus an area for large group camping," one reviewer observed. Another mentioned "All sites are not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers."
Fishing ponds: Tohickon Family Campground offers waterfront activities that receive positive reviews. One visitor noted "Large stream with fishing" among the campground's highlights, while another mentioned they "had a great Halloween weekend but we were down by creek."
Off-season availability: Several campgrounds in the region remain open during cooler months. A winter visitor to French Creek stated, "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," highlighting that camping near Valley Forge doesn't end with summer.
What you should know
Campground terrain varies: Be prepared for potential mud at some locations after rain. At Tohickon Family Campground, a visitor warned "Don't come if you're in a tent and it has been or will rain. It becomes flooded or turns into a mud pit." Plan accordingly with proper footwear and site selection.
Loop-specific rules: French Creek State Park designates certain areas for specific uses. "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets," mentions one reviewer. If traveling with animals, check campground pet policies before booking.
Facilities maintenance: Bathroom quality differs between locations. Green Lane Park receives mixed reviews about facilities: "Clean bathrooms, lots of open space!" contrasted with another camper who stated "The sites are way too close together and there is not any privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park offers family-friendly amenities despite some privacy concerns. A visitor mentioned the park has "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails" making it suitable for families needing space for children to play.
Activities for children: The Philadelphia area KOAs feature numerous kid-focused amenities. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, a family noted "There was so much to do there a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more. They offer so many activities during the day and text you so you don't forget."
Yurt camping options: For families wanting comfort without tenting, yurt camping near Valley Forge, Pennsylvania provides an excellent alternative. French Creek State Park offers yurts that can be reserved in addition to their standard campsites and cabins, providing shelter from weather changes that might challenge families with younger children.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation challenges: Be prepared for tight turns at some campgrounds. A visitor to Boulder Woods Campground advised, "The spots are tight to get into but the staff will offer to park your camper using your vehicle. I let them park mine and I'm really glad I did. It was super tight."
Electric-only sites: At French Creek State Park, an RVer pointed out, "We had electric however no water or sewer hookup. There was a spigot for water at the next site over from us, so we didn't have to walk far to get fresh water." Bring extra water containers and plan for dump station usage.
Winter camping preparation: For RVers exploring yurt camping near Valley Forge in cooler months, one visitor shared, "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized. They accommodated us nicely." Call ahead to request specific site assignments that meet your winter camping needs.
