Best Campgrounds near Waterville, PA

Campgrounds near Waterville, Pennsylvania range from primitive sites to fully developed facilities with modern amenities. The Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA and Ridley Creek State Park campgrounds exemplify the diversity of options, with accommodations spanning tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping experiences. Many camping areas in this region provide water and electric hookups, while others offer more rustic experiences with limited amenities. Several mixed-use campgrounds accommodate multiple camping styles, making the area suitable for various outdoor preferences and equipment types.

Permits and reservations are required at most established campgrounds in the region, with many sites booking quickly during peak summer months. Access to camping areas varies widely, with some locations offering drive-in convenience while others require boat access, like Tinicum Island. The terrain ranges from flat, developed campgrounds to more rugged settings with hiking trails and natural features. Weather conditions remain favorable for camping from spring through fall, though some facilities operate year-round. Cell service is generally reliable near more developed sites but may be limited in remote areas. As one visitor noted about Ridley Creek State Park: "Well marked trails great for hiking. Pet friendly! We love walking here with our dog. There are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in!"

Campers frequently mention the cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere of established campgrounds in the area. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA receives particular praise for its amenities and maintenance. "This campground was so well maintained. There was so much to do there - a pool, lake, horseshoes, cornhole, playground, big pillow and even more," noted one reviewer. Proximity to Philadelphia makes these camping areas convenient bases for exploring urban attractions while enjoying outdoor recreation. For those seeking quieter experiences, boat-in sites like Tinicum Island offer more seclusion, though with minimal amenities. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, with several campers mentioning deer sightings and bird watching possibilities. Bathroom facilities and shower availability vary significantly between campgrounds, with KOA locations typically offering more robust amenities than state park campgrounds.

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Best Camping Sites Near Waterville, Pennsylvania (115)

    1. Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA

    20 Reviews
    Paulsboro, NJ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 423-6677

    "They also have a catch and release pond and we found a pickleball court at a nearby city park."

    "In addition to the peaceful vibe, the people are friendly, the little office store has everything you forgot to pack, and if you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods"

    2. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 892-3900

    $57 / night

    "well marked trails great for hiking. pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog. there are even a few great spots to get a small creek swim in! It also has a greag picnic area with grills."

    "We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back"

    3. French Creek State Park Campground

    79 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $24 - $122 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "Campground Review: French Creek State Park Campground is located in Elverson, Pennsylvania and sits adjacent to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site."

    4. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

    "Everything was within close walking distance and the staff were extremely helpful. Pool and bathrooms were very clean."

    5. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    "The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."

    7. Old Cedar Campground

    11 Reviews
    Monroeville, NJ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 358-4881

    $31 - $50 / night

    "This row of sites lacked the trees for shade and privacy found at most other sites around the campground. 

    The pool was nice and clean."

    "Not close off the highway, but wooden sites. Seems as though people spend their summers there. Pool was beautiful and looked new. Mini golf was decrepit and looked abandoned. Store was nice."

    8. Four Seasons Family Campground

    8 Reviews
    Pilesgrove, NJ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 769-3635

    $50 - $150 / night

    "They have many amenities form a lake to swim or fish, to playgrounds,theres a convenient store and even an arcade, and the best part is all the farms around."

    10. Fort Washington State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Ambler, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 591-5250

    $28 - $72 / night

    "It's almost 500 acres filled with trails, woods,and river. I usually go to the parking right off of Militia hill rd.and Skippack Pike intersection."

    "Come for Militia Hill, hawk watching, cross country ski, or disc golf, and the trails along the Wissahickon Creek."

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Recent Reviews near Waterville, PA

814 Reviews of 115 Waterville Campgrounds


  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.


Guide to Waterville

Camping near Waterville, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around French Creek State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The state park has numerous hiking and biking opportunities," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, Lums Pond State Park Campground is a good choice. A camper shared, "The lake and pool facilities were closed but the scenery was still in full effect," highlighting the beauty of the area even when some amenities are unavailable.
  • Visiting Historical Sites: Check out the nearby historical sites in Philadelphia. One visitor at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA noted, "This campground was so well maintained... I would love to come back if I was looking for a place close to home."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate cleanliness. A review for Spring Gulch Resort Campground stated, "Bathrooms were always really clean," which is a big plus for many.
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One camper at Old Cedar Campground mentioned, "There are few nice spots tucked away in the woods with plenty of privacy," making it a great choice for those seeking solitude.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Hospitality Creek Campground provide fun for kids. A reviewer said, "Great hike around the lake," which is perfect for family outings.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may have fewer amenities than others. A visitor at Atsion Family Camp — Wharton State Forest noted, "The bathrooms are the typical old NJ state park set up," indicating that while functional, they might not be the newest.
  • Seasonal Access: Many campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Parvin State Park Campground is open from April 1 to October 31, so plan your trip accordingly.
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of local wildlife. A camper at Lancaster-New Holland KOA warned, "Beware of chiggers and ticks! Deet is necessary," emphasizing the need for bug protection.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. One reviewer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA mentioned, "The staff had an Easter egg hunt for the kids," which can be a fun addition to your stay.
  • Playgrounds and Pools: Choose campgrounds that offer playgrounds or pools. A family at Spring Gulch Resort Campground enjoyed the "little golf course, kayaks, lake, and playground," making it a hit for children.
  • Secluded Spots: For a quieter experience, look for campgrounds with secluded sites. A camper at Old Cedar Campground appreciated the "quiet during the week," which is great for families wanting to relax.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Lancaster-New Holland KOA mentioned, "Our 50 amp hook up did not work when we showed up but they did fix that the next morning," highlighting the importance of checking these details.
  • Road Conditions: Be mindful of road conditions when driving to campgrounds. One camper at Wharton State Forest noted, "The roads are soft sand and can get rough after a rain storm," which is something to consider for larger RVs.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on supplies before arriving. A reviewer at Hospitality Creek Campground mentioned, "We had to leave the campground to find wifi at a local library," indicating that some amenities might not be available on-site.

Camping near Waterville, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Waterville, PA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Waterville, PA is Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA with a 4.3-star rating from 20 reviews.