Tent camping near Washington Woods, Pennsylvania offers primitive to moderately developed sites across multiple county parks and natural areas. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through September. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 400-700 feet, creating varied terrain for hiking and exploration while providing stream and lake access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hibernia County Park maintains a children's pond stocked specifically for young anglers age 12 and under. According to John Z., the park features "great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too."
Kayaking access: Lower Allen Community Park provides direct creek access for paddlers. As Joann notes, "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. There is parking right there. The park is in the suburbs so it's close to lots of things."
Trail exploration: Susquehannock State Park Campground offers extensive hiking options. David G. explains, "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River. There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles."
What campers like
Creek-side cooling: Mill Creek Camping Area positions tent sites along flowing water. Meagan J. notes, "Campsite for where we stayed is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Bird watching: Susquehannock State Park Campground's elevated position creates unique wildlife viewing. Nick S. shares that "It's look out over the Susquehanna River is fantastic and puts you up with the birds."
Large group spaces: The Lake Loop at Hibernia County Park accommodates multiple tents per site. Chelsea reports, "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected."
What you should know
No running water in some areas: Despite proximity to facilities, not all camping loops have modern amenities. A camper at Hibernia notes, "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop."
Trail proximity creates variable privacy: Campsites may sit directly on hiking paths at some locations. Sakina P. shares her experience at Mill Creek: "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in a private areas. When I made the reservation it was noted that hikers were not allowed on campsites."
Seasonal operations: Many area campgrounds have limited seasons. Hibernia County Park operates "only open on the weekends, in season" with sites available through online reservation, phone, or first-come, first-served self-registration.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks provide additional recreational amenities. At Hibernia, Anna reports her children aged 3-12 enjoyed their stay, noting "The park ranger this weekend was the nicest and very helpful with directions to walk to the playground and indoor restrooms."
Swimming restrictions: Water access doesn't always mean swimming opportunities. Jim N. points out that Hibernia County Park "is dry, no alcohol. No hook ups either. There is an old mansion that gives tours on weekends."
Fishing for kids: Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area keeps sites refreshingly cool near water. Philip B. shares, "When it's hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing. The site is public access and there are lots of hikes, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most area campgrounds lack RV-specific amenities. At Hibernia County Park, one RVer advises, "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."
Site selection for larger vehicles: Despite generally primitive conditions, select sites can accommodate RVs. A camper reports about Hibernia's Fiddler's Loop, "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18."
No dump stations: Plan accordingly for waste disposal. A reviewer explains, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home."
