French Creek State Park Campground offers various camping options within a 7,526-acre property about 15 miles southeast of Reading. The park contains two lakes, Scotts Run and Hopewell, both suitable for fishing with species including northern pike, bass, and walleye. Camping is available year-round with sites organized into four separate loops, making it one of the most accessible glamping destinations near Berwyn, Pennsylvania.
What to do
Fishing at French Creek: The park features two lakes with diverse fish populations. "We were able to fit 5 diapers, a large bottle of suntan lotion, a pack of wipes, snack container, travel changing pad, Matador large NanoDry towel, Matador droplet wet bag and a bottle of milk on the side in the drink pocket," mentions Jen R. about carrying supplies for a day of fishing and hiking around the lakes.
Disc golf at Boulder Woods: The course draws enthusiasts from across the region. "They also have a disc golf course and they rent and sell discs. That's where we fell in love with disc golf," shares Erik W. at Boulder Woods Campground, which maintains a disc golf course that regularly hosts tournaments.
Canoe trips on Brandywine River: The gentle current is perfect for beginners. "We choose to do both on this trip and weren't disappointed with either," notes Phinon W. about combining hiking and canoeing at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, where canoe rentals are available on-site.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Most campgrounds offer well-designed camping areas. "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," reports Jen R. from her stay at French Creek State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region's woodlands support diverse animal populations. "If you look around the campground edges or follow the walking trail into the woods, you will find wonderful native plants like blueberry, viburnum, clethra, and meadow beauty," mentions Jorah at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms were just okay. Muddy floors - don't know how often floors are cleaned. Showers were odd - one large stall but no separate dressing area," reports Cheryl K. about her experience at French Creek, providing an honest assessment of conditions.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most luxury camping spots near Berwyn have limited seasons. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! The honor system of payment at the office makes it really easy to come in late and leave early," notes Galit P., confirming French Creek's year-round accessibility.
Site privacy varies significantly: Research site maps before booking. "The sites are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites," explains Phinon W. about the river sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA.
Pet restrictions: Policies differ between campgrounds and specific loops. "Loop C is the only dog friendly loop in the campground," mentions Ellen C. about Evansburg State Park Campground, highlighting an important consideration for those traveling with pets.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and jump pads: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There are a half dozen, easy trails, the longest is around 2 miles," points out Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park, which combines hiking opportunities with a "great playground" according to John Z.
Fishing ponds for kids: Dedicated fishing areas make for easy family activities. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," shares Anna from Hibernia County Park, where special fishing areas are designated for younger anglers.
Swimming options: Pools provide alternatives when weather doesn't cooperate. "Nice playground for kids, jump pad, pool and cafe," mentions Edward M. about his experience at Lake-In-Wood Campground, a popular luxury glamping option near Berwyn with both indoor and outdoor pools.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare equipment for uneven terrain. "We were able to book our sites online which was also a nice feature. All sites have a flat paved area for your camper," notes Jen R. about French Creek State Park, though she cautions that "if you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV."
Hookup placement: Check the position of utilities before arrival. "Our site was a drive-through but slanted. There wasn't much room on our site to do anything else," warns Mary C. about Lake-in-Wood, where tight site configurations can present challenges for larger rigs.
Premium site options: Several glamping sites near Berwyn offer upgraded sites. "If you can manage without full hookups, choose the spots down by the creek. The views are the best in the place," recommends Laura R. about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, where waterfront sites offer superior experiences despite occasionally being "a little muddy."
