Camping near Douglassville, Pennsylvania offers options beyond standard campgrounds, with several locations providing accommodations from April through November. The region sits at approximately 200-300 feet above sea level, with the Schuylkill River running alongside the town creating both recreational opportunities and seasonal flooding concerns during heavy rains. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Disc golf adventures: Blue Rocks Family Campground offers access to extensive disc golf facilities. "Blue rocks is the best family campground within 5 hours of philadelphia. Hands down. They have everything you need from primitive sites to cabins to rent," notes camper Nick M., who praises the comprehensive facilities.
Hiking from camp: The Appalachian Trail connects directly to some campgrounds in the region. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, "Trail heads begin inside the campsite. Outhouses could use a little work. But a further walk will take you to flushing toilets and showers that are nice," according to Amy C., highlighting the trail access.
Historical exploration: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to historic sites. Near French Creek State Park Campground, campers can visit Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, with one visitor commenting, "If you don't want to hang around the campground there are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campground layout varies significantly across the region. At Deep Creek Campground at Green Lane Park, "The park is lovely, but the camping facilities are subpar, primitive and lack any kind of privacy," according to Ra F., contrasting with more secluded options elsewhere.
Year-round options: Some campgrounds maintain winter operations with limited facilities. Galit P. reports about French Creek State Park, "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, make sure you have cash on you."
Water recreation: Lakes and rivers provide fishing and boating opportunities. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They 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," according to Phinon W.
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Campground density varies significantly across locations. At Green Lane Park, a camper reports, "The sites are large but there is 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."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restrooms differ between campgrounds. At Hibernia County Park, "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," Jennifer S. explains.
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. A camper notes about Hibernia County Park, "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved on line, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly recreation areas. At Lake-In-Wood Campground, "Huge pond for fishing, miniature gold, nice indoor and outdoor pool and a kiddie pool. Goats to pet and watch," writes Jen R., highlighting diverse kids' activities.
Budget-friendly options: County parks often provide economical camping experiences. At Hibernia County Park, a visitor shared, "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground."
Rock exploration: Natural features provide unique play opportunities. At Blue Rocks Family Campground, "our children loved to climb all over the rocks, that is where they spent most of the time. primitive but fun!" notes Terri S., highlighting natural recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require adjustments for larger vehicles. At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, "Most of the campsite options are fairly level, but are very rocky, so this is something to keep in mind if you are tent camping," warns Phinon W.
Premium site options: Several campgrounds offer upgraded RV locations. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, an RVer noted, "We paid $135/night for Back-in Patio Site #25. A bit pricey considering the lack of elbow room, but it's a great site and everything is well-kept."
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds limit which RVs can become seasonal residents. At Boulder Woods Campground, a disappointed camper shared, "Three years ago, we fell in love with this campground. We knew we had to find an rv and become seasonals. Fast forward, we bought one, went to talk to them... They only allow seasonal campers to be 10 years old or newer."
