Best Campgrounds near Chester Springs, PA

Camping options near Chester Springs, Pennsylvania range from established state parks to private campgrounds offering a variety of accommodations. French Creek State Park, about 10 miles west of Chester Springs, features 200 campsites across four distinct loops with options for tent campers, RV users, and those seeking cabins or yurts. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, located in Coatesville, provides developed camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals in a setting along the Brandywine River. The region includes several mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both primitive tent camping and full-hookup RV sites, with many facilities remaining open year-round.

Access and amenities vary significantly across camping areas in southeastern Pennsylvania. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer months when facilities like swimming pools and boat rentals are operational. French Creek State Park offers electric hookups, water connections, and full-service sites in some loops, while others maintain a more primitive camping experience. Most camping areas near Chester Springs provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restroom facilities, though amenities differ between public and private operations. Sites with hookups typically range from $40-70 per night, while primitive tent sites generally cost $25-55. A camper noted that French Creek State Park "feels crowded" in certain loops, particularly the dog-friendly electric area, but offers "abundant trees separating the sites" in other sections.

The camping experience near Chester Springs benefits from proximity to both natural areas and cultural attractions. Campers frequently mention the convenience of accessing Philadelphia while still enjoying wooded camping environments. Several visitors highlight the Pennsylvania Dutch countryside surrounding campgrounds like Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, describing it as "rolling hills in a plush countryside punctuated by massive rolled bays of hay." Water features enhance many camping experiences, with lakes at French Creek State Park offering fishing and seasonal boating opportunities. Family-friendly amenities appear consistently in reviews, with multiple campgrounds providing swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Proximity to hiking trails ranks as a significant advantage, with French Creek State Park offering 35 miles of trails through forested terrain, though one reviewer cautions that most are labeled as "more difficult."

Best Camping Sites Near Chester Springs, Pennsylvania (133)

    1. French Creek State Park Campground

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

    $20 - $75 / 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."

    2. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    13 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."

    3. Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park

    10 Reviews
    Gradyville, PA
    13 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"

    4. Lake-In-Wood Campground

    22 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 445-5525

    $40 - $60 / night

    "It rained the entire time I was there so we didn’t go in the pool but the campground is walkable, I was able to go running, there are things for kids to do, some animals to go visit on our walks, obviously"

    "You must try the family style restaurants in the area, delicious and close by as well. Overall a great experience and I would go again for sure :-)"

    5. Hibernia County Park

    8 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 383-3812

    $15 - $50 / night

    "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two, however the “sites” are smaller and it's more open. It is popular with group tenters."

    "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites."

    6. Evansburg State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Skippack, PA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 409-1150

    $43 / night

    "It was a great place to walk with your dog and enjoy the Pennsylvania outdoors."

    "Since he was 2 years old I’ve taken my son, and we always have an amazing time, either hiking the trails to wandering in the woods looking for “adventures”."

    7. Brandywine Creek Campground

    3 Reviews
    Coatesville, PA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 942-9950

    "Girlfriend and I stayed here while we visited nearby Longwood Gardens. The tent sites are spacious and they all border the creek which is a nice sound at night, as well as a good morning view."

    "Close to Valley Forge military park, and convenient to Philadelphia by train."

    8. Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    15 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Site next to us had a pipe break, they had a maintenance crew come out immediately and fix it. Amish stores/attractions close by for some entertainment also."

    "Fishing pond is a joke and near by Gun Range can be annoying and tough on pets. But, over all, this place is pretty nice."

    9. Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park

    8 Reviews
    Perkiomenville, PA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (215) 234-4528

    $20 - $30 / night

    "Large sites, clean bathrooms, lots of hiking trails"

    10. Lancaster-New Holland KOA

    12 Reviews
    Narvon, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 354-7926

    "This is a great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark. "

    "Not too close to each other. Has a great view of the valley and Amish farms. Everyone has been very friendly. No pool but the kids seem to enjoy the playground."

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Recent Reviews near Chester Springs, PA

910 Reviews of 133 Chester Springs Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

  • Jessica V.
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Tohickon Family Campground

    Great weekend spot

    We went with friends for a weekend. Both families have little kids and it was a great spot with a playground, construction digging area, and a bunch of activities for the kids to do. We went in September so the pool was closed but it looked like a nice size. Full hook ups which was great! Also they have a nice stream that everyone went fishing at. They are building some new sites at the end of the property.

  • 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.


Guide to Chester Springs

Camping near Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. 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 numerous trails in the area. At French Creek State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Hiking and biking this park is fun." The park has a variety of trails for all skill levels.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing opportunities at Elk Neck State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The Susquehanna river is full of every kind of fish imaginable!" This makes it a great spot for anglers.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: If you're into water sports, Lums Pond State Park Campground has a ramp for easy access to the water. One camper noted, "The lake has fishing & boat rentals."

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers at Blue Rocks Family Campground appreciate the roomy sites. A review highlighted, "Very level and spaced apart from neighbor if you pick the right spots."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors rave about the cleanliness of the bathrooms. At Hersheypark Camping Resort, one camper said, "The bathrooms were clean and large."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Turkey Swamp Park are noted for their family-friendly vibe. A reviewer mentioned, "Peaceful family campground. Lake for kayaking and paddle boats to rent."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Susquehanna State Park Campground noted, "The sites are well kept and the tent pads are in great shape...but the sites are fairly small and some of them are right on top of each other."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Round Valley State Park Campground lacks electric hookups and showers, which some campers found challenging.
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially at campgrounds like Locust Lake State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "There was a fair amount of poison ivy though and we had to keep the dogs on tight leashes."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Kid-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. Elk Neck State Park Campground has a small playground that kids can enjoy.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for family fun. A camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground mentioned, "Had a nice time camping for two nights," highlighting the park's recreational options.
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. One family at Hersheypark Camping Resort enjoyed the convenience of the on-site store, saying, "The store has just about anything you would need while visiting."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure to choose a site that fits your RV. A reviewer at Blue Rocks Family Campground noted, "We ended up with a great spot with no hookups and pretty secluded."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A camper at Hersheypark Camping Resort mentioned, "The ONLY good thing this RV park has going is the Hershey park bus that runs all day back and forth."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: Many sites are unlevel, so having leveling blocks is essential. A visitor at Locust Lake State Park Campground said, "It was an effort to get our travel trailer close to level."

Camping near Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quiet getaway or a fun family trip, there's something for you in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near Chester Springs, PA?

The Philadelphia-West Chester KOA stands out as one of the best options near Chester Springs, offering a beautiful setting in Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills. This KOA provides convenient access to downtown Philadelphia while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. Another excellent choice is French Creek State Park Campground, located just a short drive from Chester Springs. The park offers wooded campsites, hiking trails, and recreational activities. For those seeking alternatives, Hibernia County Park and Brandywine Creek Campground are also within reasonable driving distance and provide quality camping experiences in Chester County.

Are there RV parks or campgrounds in Chester Springs with full hookups?

Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country provides full hookup RV sites in the nearby Amish country region, offering a resort-style experience with modern amenities. The park is well-maintained and gives RVers a comfortable base to explore the Chester Springs area. Another option is Village Scene Park, located in the suburban Philadelphia area, providing full hookup sites in a convenient location. For RVers seeking additional choices, Spring Gulch Resort Campground and Lancaster-New Holland KOA both offer full hookup sites within driving distance of Chester Springs, with amenities tailored to larger rigs and long-term stays.

Where can I find tent camping sites in Chester Springs?

Blue Rocks Family Campground offers excellent tent camping options in a wooded setting near the Appalachian Trail. This large campground features tent sites nestled among the rocks and rolling hills that Pennsylvania is known for. Another great option is Pequea Creek Campground, which provides picturesque tent sites with ample trees and a quiet atmosphere. For tent campers seeking additional choices, consider Group Camp at Ridley Creek State Park or Hibernia County Park, both offering tent-friendly sites with basic amenities like toilets and water access within reasonable driving distance from Chester Springs.