Tent campsites near West Chester, Pennsylvania range from primitive walk-in sites to group camping areas within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and moderate winters. Camping opportunities in this area remain largely seasonal, with most facilities closing from November through March due to Pennsylvania's freezing winter temperatures.
What to do
Trail hiking: Ridley Creek State Park offers multiple well-marked paths for hikers of various skill levels. "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park," notes Andrea R., while Mackenzie B. adds, "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!"
Fishing opportunities: Access to various waterways provides fishing options at several campgrounds. At Evansburg State Park, one camper caught "a beautiful Brown Trout" and mentioned that "you need a license to fish, and if you plan on catching Trout you need the Trout endorsement on the fishing licence, currently $9.90." Hibernia County Park features a children's pond specifically stocked for young anglers under 12.
Disc golf courses: Several parks near West Chester feature disc golf facilities. At Green Lane Park, campers can enjoy what one reviewer called a "phenomenal disc golf course." Fort Washington State Park also offers a disc golf course as part of its recreational amenities, making it a popular activity for campers seeking alternatives to hiking and water sports.
What campers like
Pet-friendly policies: Many tent campsites welcome four-legged companions. Derek M. appreciated that Ridley Creek State Park accepts "four legged friends," while Mackenzie B. confirmed it's "pet friendly! we love walking here with our dog." Evansburg State Park also welcomes pets, though one camper noted they "find Evansburg to be the muddiest State Park I've ever experienced" and recommended bringing extra shoes for both humans and dogs.
Bird watching opportunities: The region offers excellent birding possibilities. At Fort Washington State Park, campers can use the hawk watching deck, which one reviewer mentioned is especially good during spring and fall migrations. Stuart K. noted Fort Washington is great for "birding" where "you can view the beautiful raptors that migrate here on a seasonal basis."
Secluded tent sites: Some campgrounds offer more private camping experiences. At Boulder Ridge Farm, campers enjoy what one reviewer called a "super chill" experience with "plenty of fire wood, really cool huge rocks and waking up to owls." Another camper mentioned it's "close to town yet so serene" with "an abundance of wildlife."
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Green Lane Park's Deep Creek Campground has been described by Jen as having "NO privacy. The sites are lined up next to each other along the campground driveway and there are absolutely no trees or shrubs between them." Similarly, Tiffany B. confirmed sites are "close to each other with absolutely no privacy."
Walk-in requirements: Some tent campsites require carrying gear from parking areas. At Fort Washington State Park, Chuck C. noted "having to haul gear by foot to the campsite. some are further than others." For Boulder Ridge Farm, Ashley F. mentioned "2WD is fine but 4WD will make your experience getting to the property a bit more smooth."
Water availability limitations: Access to drinking water differs between campgrounds. At Hibernia County Park, Jennifer S. warned "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. There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'." At other parks, water access may be limited to specific locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. John Z. mentioned that Hibernia County Park has a "great playground" along with a "great children's pond for 12 and under." Alverthorpe Park also features a children's playground among its numerous amenities.
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Dedicated fishing areas for children exist at select parks. Anna noted Hibernia County Park has a "children's pond a short ways away for well stocked fishing," making it ideal for young anglers. She added that her kids aged "3-12" loved the lake campground, calling it "great for families."
First-time camper friendly sites: Some locations cater specifically to beginning campers. David K. commented that Ridley Creek State Park "is great for first time campers" with "a nice open field with two sites and two fire pits. They also have a tone of trails to hike on." This provides an easier introduction to camping for families new to outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
RV site limitations: Many campgrounds near West Chester have restrictions on RV size and access. Jennifer S. advised at Hibernia County Park, "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there" in the Lake Loop. For Fiddler's Loop, she noted "we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel" and identified specific sites that can accommodate RVs, including "#3, #17 & #18."
Hookup availability: Most tent-focused campgrounds offer limited or no hookups for RVs. According to Jennifer S., Hibernia County Park has "NO HOOKUPS" and she advised RVers to "come with a full water tank." She also warned there is "NO DUMP STATION" and recommended looking for "nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee."
Leveling challenges: RV campers should prepare for uneven sites at many locations. Jennifer S. observed that at Hibernia County Park, RV sites "aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix." This is common throughout the region's more rustic campgrounds where tent camping is the primary accommodation.
