French Creek State Park spans 7,526 acres across Chester and Berks counties, featuring diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 300 to 520 feet. The park contains two lakes—Hopewell Lake (68 acres) and Scotts Run Lake (22 acres)—and maintains year-round camping facilities with loops offering different accommodations. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months average 70-85°F.
What to Do
Disc golf course: French Creek State Park offers an 18-hole disc golf course winding through wooded areas. "We also used them to eat our chili. It was funny as my husband was using the spoon side and me the fork side. What do you eat your chili with? Let the great debate begin!" shares Jen R. about enjoying meals after disc golfing at French Creek State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple species of warm-water fish inhabit the lakes at French Creek State Park, including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, and walleye. "I cought a beautiful Brown Trout here a few weeks ago! Great park. (I put the Trout back in, it was very healthy and I managed to get the hook out quickly, otherwise he would have been dinner!)" writes J K. about fishing at Evansburg State Park Campground.
Historical sites: Visit nearby Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site for a glimpse into early American iron-making. "If, like me, you are trying to explore the wonder and splendor of Valley Forge and have stumbled across Fort Washington SP enroute, then what a little gem you have discovered...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," explains Stuart K.
What Campers Like
Private camping spaces: Camping areas with natural separation between sites provide privacy. "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," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Tenting flexibility: Options range from established sites to group camping areas. "This is a great park with a small campground. The spaces are right on top of each other with no tree cover between spots, so you'll definitely be right up on your neighbors," explains Tara T. about Green Lane Park.
Primitive camping experience: For those seeking a more rustic experience, Hibernia County Park offers basic amenities. "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp. Very quiet at night," shares Anna about Hibernia County Park.
What You Should Know
Site selection considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in layout and privacy. "The tent sites are on dirt and not stone which we enjoyed, I hate stone under my tent. The general store had everything plus, and very reasonably priced," notes Karralee B. about Boulder Woods Campground.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during peak season. "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration," explains Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies widely between parks. "The bathroom at the campground is very nice and new however it is a little on the dirty side. I don't know if they have anyone who goes around to clean the bath houses but it certainly was in need of cleaning," reports Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line. All kids and adults agreed it was the most fun!" mentions Jen R. from French Creek State Park.
Child-friendly fishing spots: Designated fishing areas cater to younger anglers. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," notes John Z. about Hibernia County Park.
Pet-friendly trails for family dogs: When seeking pet-friendly camping near Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, consider Ridley Creek State Park which offers well-marked trails suitable for families with dogs. "I love camping at Ridley creek. Very peaceful," shares Chuck C., while another visitor, Andrea R., notes, "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should prepare for uneven sites at some parks. "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," advises Erik W. about Boulder Woods Campground.
Hookup availability: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "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," explains Jen R. about Fort Washington State Park Campground.
Water access planning: Some campgrounds lack easy water access. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," warns Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Legend
