Urban Philly has a lot going for it — it is the City of Brotherly Love. Yet as good as Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches are, sometimes you and your family just need a s’mores fix, ASAP. When that craving takes over, it’s time to get yourself to one of the 25 best campgrounds within two hours of Philadelphia.
Of course, this guide to the 25 best campgrounds within two hours of Philadelphia can also be as useful for heading in as it is for heading out. Don’t get it? Let us explain. The city of Philadelphia is a cradle of American history and liberty. It’s a city and a region of the country everyone should have the chance to explore, learn about and cherish. As far as the America we love – this is the origin story.
So it makes a whole bunch of sense that family campers would want to head to Philly to see and explore it, while at the same time enjoy their Number One pastime of camping.
Many of the destinations on this map make it entirely possible to pitch a tent or park a trailer, set up camp and then easily venture back toward town for historic day trips. You can even centrally locate your campsite to take in the sights and attractions of Philadelphia, Gettysburg, Hershey and Amish Country. How great would that be?
Looking for great campgrounds within two hours of Philadelphia, you need to think outside the box though — by which we mean outside the state lines. There are great camping opportunities in New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland, too. Many of these show up in this listing of 25 best campgrounds within two hours of Philadelphia.
PENNSYLVANIA
French Creek State Park: Elverson, PA
Image by Winnie L
Once an industrial complex for the fledgling United States of America, today French Creek State Park is an oasis for people and wildlife. Straddling the Schuylkill Highlands, the 7,730-acre park is the largest block of contiguous forest between Washington D.C. and New York City. The forests, lakes, wetlands, and fields are a destination for the people of southeast Pennsylvania and outsiders alike to hike, fish, camp, and bicycle. The campground has more than 200 wooded, modern sites within easy access to shower and flush toilet facilities. Camping cottages and yurts are also available by reservation.
Recent campers say: “What a lovely and unique place,” “The campground was clean,” “Campsites were marked clearly,”
843 Park Road Elverson, PA 19520
Phone: 610-582-9680
For reservations, please go to their website
Ricketts Glen State Park: Benton, PA
Image by Evan Hudson
Ricketts Glen harbors Glens Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark. Hike the Falls Trail System and explore the Glens, which boasts a series of wild, free-flowing waterfalls, each cascading through rock-strewn clefts in this ancient hillside. The 94-foot Ganoga Falls is the highest of 22 named waterfalls. Old-growth timber and diverse wildlife add to the beauty. Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most scenic areas in Pennsylvania. This large park is comprised of 13,050 acres in Luzerne, Sullivan and Columbia counties. The park offers 120 tent and trailer campsites plus deluxe camping cottages and modern cabins.
Recent campers say: “Stayed in a full hookup site in the dog-friendly loop,” “One of my favorite places I have hiked so far,” “Beautiful state park,”
695 State Route 487 Benton, PA 17814
Phone: 507-477-5675
For reservations, please go to their website
Hibernia County Park
Image by Brian Wood
Hibernia County Park sits on the shores of Chambers Lake which is highly regarded for its fishing and boating. Additionally, popular fishing locations include Brandywine Creek’s west branch and Birch Run. Plus, the park includes a special stocked children’s fishing pond. The park encompasses more than 900 acres of trails, woodlands, meadows, fields, play areas, pavilions, campsites, and picnic areas. Campsites in Fiddler’s Campground and Lake Campground include a picnic table and fire ring. Water hydrants for potable water and latrines are available. There are no showers or electric hookups. All sites will accommodate tents and Fiddler’s is recommended for small camping trailers and RVs. Sites are available first come first served.
Recent campers say: “Well maintained with beautiful manicured hiking trails,” “Great park for trails and camping,” “My first time camping and I loved every minute of it,”
1 Park Road Coatesville, PA 19320
Phone: 610-383-3812
$15 per night
Lancaster KOA: New Holland, PA
Image by Rachel Dziedzic
Lancaster KAO is known as “the quiet one” because of its breathtaking 10-mile view of Amidst farmland and the lack of planned activities. The campground itself is relaxing and low-key … a great place to pop up your camper put out some lawn chairs and just kick back. Or you may choose to enjoy the many attractions and shopping opportunities close at hand. Sites range from tent pads with picnic tables to open and shaded pull-through sites that can handle big rigs. Free cable TV, 30/50 amp service, and WIFI are all available. LP, ice and firewood are for sale on-site. There are clean, heated bathhouses with hot showers and laundry facilities, too.
Recent campers say: “Is a peaceful and enjoyable experience,” “The campsite was spacious, clean and easy to get into,”
354 Springville Road on Route 897
New Holland, PA 17557
717-354-7926
$59.28+ per night
Lake Raystown Resort: Entriken, PA
Image by fcq9nr2z
Lake Raystown Resort is a full-service lakeside resort occupying three naturally beautiful and immaculately maintained peninsulas on the lake. They have accommodations of all kinds including cabins, houseboats, villas, bungalows, yurts, and a lodge. But most important to 50 Campfires fans are the outstanding campsites appropriate to any kind of camping rig. There’s terrific lake access for all kinds of watercraft. Campsites from basic to super sites include water, electricity (30/50 amp service), wireless internet, and cable hook-ups, fire ring and picnic table. Tents, trailers, and RVs are all welcome.
Recent campers say: “Nice campground, the back-in sites along the lake have an odd layout,” Not a resort
3101 Chipmunk Crossing
Entriken, PA 16638
814-658-3500
For reservations, please visit their website
Peaceful Woodlands Family Campground: Blakeslee, PA
Image by Grzegorz Wozniak
Peaceful Woodlands is a family-owned and operated campground. It was lovingly created by the Wieand family in the late 1970s and continues the long-found traditions under a new family’s ownership today. Much of the natural design of the land has been retained in which most sites are surrounded by a small grove of trees. This 50 acres of beauty sits at the base of the Dixon Miller Recreation Area (elev. 2212 ft) which is one of the highest accessible points overlooking the Pocono Plateau. Relax and reconnect with nature while enjoying quality time with family and friends. This operation offers warm hospitality, whether you pitch a tent, bring your camper, or rent a cabin or camper on site.
Recent campers say: “Camped at this beautiful space this past weekend,” “Have has a wonderful time every time,” “Bathrooms are always clean,”
Peaceful Woodlands Family Campground
114 WT Family Blvd.
Blakeslee, PA 18610
570-646-9255
For reservations, please go to their website
Mauch Chunk Lake Park: Jim Thorpe, PA
Image by Chris Sanfino
Mauch Chunk Lake Park is located in the Boroughs of Jim Thorpe and Summit Hill and earned recognition as the National Watershed of the Year in 1978. The park began as a flood control project because of the mountainous terrain and confinement of the Mauch Chunk Creek that flows beneath the town of Jim Thorpe. County government officials viewed the project as an opportunity to also provide recreation and the Mauch Chunk Lake Park was later dedicated in August of 1974. Today, the park exceeds 150,000 visitors annually and has become a popular vacation destination for many families. The park has facilities for camping, swimming, picnicking, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. There are 135 sites including lakefront tent, camping cottages and organized group camps. A camp store sells firewood, supplies, snacks, and novelties. Admission to the beach and swimming area are included in camping fees.
Recent campers say: “Scenery here is breathtaking,” “A place to enjoy alone or with family,” “We love coming to this lake,”
625 Lentz Trail
Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
570-325-3669
For reservations, please go to their website
Lehigh Gorge Campground: White Haven, PA
Image by Rebecca Barbush
Lehigh Gorge campground is situated along the banks of the Lehigh River and is nestled at the gateway of the Pocono Mountains. Whether you’re seeking a getaway to roam and explore wooded glens, tour the rewarding and inspiring attractions within easy driving distance or just kicking back to relax around a campfire, this is the kind of old-fashioned camping resort you’re seeking. For onsite recreation, there is a 30×60 foot heated swimming pool, playground, fishing lake, sand volleyball court, horseshoes, fishing, hunting, sledding and skiing, hiking and sightseeing. Campsites range from full-service sites for RVs and trailers to primitive camping sites with a picnic table and fire ring.
Recent campers say: “A beautiful area to ride or walk through,” “Well-kept, clean park,” “Hidden gem,”
Rte 940
White Haven, PA 18661
570-443-9191
Tent: $32 per night
White Oak Campground: Quarryville, PA
Image by Melissa Ege
Located in the heart of beautiful Lancaster County, White Oak Campground is at the center of Pennsylvania’s famed Amish Country. They are known for the campground’s peaceful and relaxing atmosphere amid acres of trees and wide-open grassy meadows. The site is conveniently located to all the attractions of the PA Dutch Country. Facilities include a new pool in 2015 and a laundromat on site. There are a picnic table and fire ring at each site, plus free wifi. A general store sells firewood, groceries, supplies, ice and gift/souvenir items. A non-denominational church service takes place each Sunday. Country auctions are held adjacent to the campground.
Recent campers say: “Great experience, had activities for kids,” Friendly staff, “Nice little camper community,”
3156 White Oak Road
Quarryville, PA 17566
717-687-6207
$42.40+ per night
Philadelphia / West Chester KOA: Coatesville, PA
Image by Etya Sivan
Camping in the Brandywine Valley is full of fun and adventures. The meandering river is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. Bring your own canoes or kayak, rent our yellow canoes and take off from the KOA Canoe Landing or take a day trip with a local outfitter. Reconnect, recreate, rest, and relax by a campfire as you share stories, memories, and food with each other, family, and friends. With Lancaster to the west and Philadelphia to the east, go back in time on our tour of historic Philadelphia & Valley Forge or take your own guided tour through the Lancaster Amish Country. This KAO is full-equipped and ready to be your home away from home as you explore all the region has to offer.
Recent campers say: “Great campground. Plenty to stay busy with,” Friendly staff, “Activities for the kids and great park,”
1659 Embreeville Road
Coatesville, PA 19320
610-486-0447
$63+ per night
Hickory Run Campground: Denver, PA
Image by Hickory Run Campground
Hickory Run Campground is located on 80 acres with campsites varying from primitive tenting to pull-throughs with hookups. Wooded and open sites are available to accommodate each family’s preferences. Primitive and full-service log cabins are also available for rent. The location is within easy driving distance of Lancaster, Reading, Hershey, Gettysburg and Valley Forge. Nature lovers and hikers can enjoy hiking the Horseshoe Trail (which begins at Valley Forge and continues to the Appalachian Trail) and is located immediately behind the campground. Middle Creek Wildlife Preserve is a five-minute drive away. This 5,000-acre preserve abounds in wildlife, hiking, and fishing. You’ll find bicycle riding popular throughout the area.
Recent campers say: “Everyone was very friendly,” “Beautiful trails,” “Bathrooms could use some updating,”
285 Greenville Road
Denver, PA 17517
717-336-5564
For reservations, please go to their website
Ridley Creek State Park: Media, PA
Image by Jody Carson
Ridley Creek State Park encompasses more than 2,606 acres of Delaware County woodlands and meadows. The gently rolling terrain of the park, transected by Ridley Creek, is just 16 short miles from the city center of Philadelphia. It’s a true oasis of open space in a rapidly growing and congesting urban metropolitan area. Unfortunately, the camping available at this close-to-the-city location is only open to organized groups. Qualified organizations can use the 120-person camping area from April to October. A restroom with flush toilets, but no showers, are available. Activities in the park include fishing, hunting, hiking, biking and jogging, horseback riding, gardens, and landscaping. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and sledding.
Recent campers say: “Great park to take a walk through,” “I like hiking at this place,” “Beautiful place to spend the day,”
1023 Sycamore Mills Road
Media, PA 19063
610-892-3900
For reservations, please go to their website
NEW JERSEY
Brendan T. Byrne State Forest Campground: New Lisbon, NJ
Image by Ken Helsby
Formerly known as Lebanon State Forest, the Brendan T. Byrne State Forest campground greets its visitors with the fresh scent of pines. Today’s forested acres there are in stark contrast to the barren, clear-cut land that existed in the 1800s. The Lebanon Glass Works was established in 1851 and was successful until 1867 when it shut down after depleting the supply of wood for its furnaces. Today hikers can follow the sandy trails that crisscross the forest, sometimes passing near the remains of stone or brick structures or where large depressions reveal the location of what was once a bustling town. Pure, iron-rich streams flow through the swampy lands covered with dense stands of Atlantic white cedar. Activities in the forest include hiking, fishing, hunting, picnicking, playgrounds, cross-country skiing and bird watching. The campground has 82 tent and trailer sites plus group campsites, cabins, and yurts for rent.
Recent campers say: “The campsites are spaced nicely and the bathhouse was clean,” “Peaceful adventure,” “Trails were well marked,”
P.O. Box 215
New Lisbon, NJ
609-726-1191
For reservations, please go to their website
Wading Pines Camping Resort: Chatsworth, NJ
Image by Mike/Sue User
At Wading Pines Resort, your family will be treated to many choices in both first-class recreation and quality accommodations. The wooded campsites accommodate every style of camping from tent sites to spacious pull-throughs with hookups including everything from 50-amp electrical service to free cable TV. If you’re new to camping or just want a completely hassle-free getaway, Wading Pines Resort offers 16 rental cabins, many with waterfront locations. Located on the banks of the Wading River, they are at the true heart of the New Jersey Pinelands. You may decide to rent a canoe or kayak and venture deep into the woods or stay closer to home and enjoy picnicking on the resort’s private island in the river. There is also a spacious saltwater pool and a stocked fishing pond. Tennis, horseshoes, basketball, and volleyball are also options for recreation.
Recent campers say: “First camping experience ever and we enjoyed it so much,” “Employees were very friendly and helpful,” “Wading Pines is the best,”
85 Godfrey Bridge Road
Chatsworth, NJ 08019
609-726-1313
$10 per night per person
Timberlane Campground: Clarksboro, NJ
Image by Marcela Tricanico
Timberlane Campground lays justifiable claim to the closest campground to downtown Philadelphia. It’s just 12 miles away. It’s a private, family-owned enterprise with a kind, courteous staff. The campground is sited on 20 acres offering both open and wooded campsites. They have a catch-and-release fishing pond, and both white-tailed deer and wild turkeys are frequent guests on the grounds. Catering to family campers, Timberlane offers a game room, playground, and swimming pools. The bathrooms are modern and clean with hot showers and are handicapped accessible. There are also laundry facilities and LP gas on the grounds. Options range from primitive tent sites through full hook-up sites to even a camping cabin available for rent.
Recent campers say: “Fantastic location,” “We had more than enough room,” “Staff was friendly and very helpful,”
117 Timberlane Road
Clarksboro, NJ 08020
856-423-6677
For reservations, please go to their website
Atsion Family Campground: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by Ryan Hahn
Atsion Family Campground is one of the most easily accessible state campgrounds in the Wharton State Forest. It offers 50 tent and trailer sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to flush toilets and shower facilities. The facility is open from April 1 through October 31. It lies on Atsion Lake directly across from the recreation area. Travel trailer length is limited to 22 feet in this campground. Swimming is not allowed from the lakeshore within the campground. The campsites and trailer sanitation station are open April 1 through October 31.
Recent campers say: “Excellent rustic cabins,” “Nice and flat,” Watch for wildlife
Route 206
Shamong, NJ 08088
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Godfrey Bridge Campground: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by Mike/Sue User
Godfrey Bridge Campground has 34 primitive tent and trailer campsites with fire rings, access to potable drinking water, and pit toilets. Travel trailers are restricted to 21 feet or less at this location. It’s located on the banks of the Wading River and can be a popular canoe-access camping location. The campsites here are available all year round.
Recent campers say: “An awesome place to camp,” “Stayed over Labor Day weekend, loved it!” “Nice site,”
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Hawkins Bridge Campground: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by Gregory Gates
Hawkins Bridge Campground in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest offers nine individual campsites and four group campsites. Some of the individual sites and all of the group sites are walk-in only from group parking areas. Individual site occupancy is limited to six people, two tents and two vehicles each. The group campsites have a 25-person, 10-vehicle maximum occupancy. All sites are pet-friendly, but pets must be registered ahead of time. This campground is on the banks of the Wading River about three miles south of Friendship.
Recent campers say: “Great at night,” “Campground is beautiful and spacious,” “Has a great time. Spacious site,”
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Batona Campground: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by Robin Lynne
Batona Campground has 12 primitive campsites limited to six people, two tents, and two vehicles per site. There’s also a group campsite with a limit of 15 people and five vehicles which must be reserved with proper authorization ahead of time. It is a pet-friendly campground, but pets must be registered ahead of time. Hand pumps are available for water and pit toilets.
Recent campers say: “Great but hard to find the campsites,” “Really love this location in Wharton,” “Nice quiet campground,”
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Bodine Field Camp Area: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by John Rooney
The Bodine Field Camp Area has 22 tent and trailer campsites. The length limit on trailers is 22 feet. The camp area is also accessible by canoe, but permits are still required. There are also eight group campsites at the location ranging in occupancy from a maximum of 15 to 50 people. Potable water can be obtained from hand pumps on site. There are pit toilet facilities available.
Recent campers say: “Great place for a brief getaway,” “The perfect camping stop,” A lot of wildlife
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Buttonwood Campground: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by Scott Jensen
Buttonwood Campground is a tiny, secluded camping location in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest. It has only five primitive campsites suitable for tent camping. The maximum occupancy of each is six people, two tents, and two vehicles per site. Facilities include pit toilets, but there is no potable drinking water available on the campgrounds. Water is available seasonally at Crowley’s Landing Boat Launch about one-quarter mile away. This tiny little cove of a campground is truly a place to get away from it all if you’re willing to rough it a bit.
Recent campers say: “One of my favorite places to camp,” “Never had a campground this clean,” “Above average customer service,”
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Lower Forge Camp Area: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by Ryan Hahn
Wharton State Forest’s Lower Forge Camp area is a remote campground accessible only by hiking, canoeing, or horseback. Whichever mode of transportation you choose to get here, you’re sure to enjoy a close-to-home wilderness adventure. Permits are required for camping in any of the nine sites. The maximum occupancy is six people and two tents per site. There is no potable water available in this campground, so you’ll have to bring your own. It is a pet-friendly campground, but pets must be pre-registered. Motorized vehicles are not permitted. There are pit toilets on-premises. The location is about five miles downstream of the Hampton Furnace and 1.9 miles upstream of the Quaker Bridge. It’s a half-mile hike from the Batona Trail.
Recent campers say: “Awesome hike and nice campsite,” “Great little campground near the river,” “Has a toilet but no drinkable water,”
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
Mullica River Campground: Wharton State Forest, NJ
Image by David Hecker
Wharton State Forest’s Mullica River Campground is a remote site accessible only by hiking, canoeing, or horseback. Whichever mode of transportation you choose to get here, you’re sure to enjoy a close-to-home wilderness adventure. Permits are required for camping in any of the 10 sites. Maximum occupancy per site ranges from 6-12 people and 2-6 tents per site. Potable water is available at a hand pump here. Motorized vehicles are not permitted. There are pit toilet facilities on-premises. The location is about five miles downstream of the Atsion on the Mullica River and 5 ½ miles by the yellow trail.
Recent campers say: “Great campsite,” “Bare bones campground,” “Favorite campground in South Jersey,”
609-561-0024
For reservations, please go to their website
DELAWARE
Cape Henlopen State Park: Lewes, DE
Image by JTL
Cape Henlopen offers terrific beach activities including swimming and surf fishing. Additionally, there are year-round hiking and biking opportunities. The park is known for its scenery and ever-changing landscape. Following the 3-mile, paved oval trail that loops the park provides an outstanding history lesson on the area. Be sure to take a trail break and climb to the top of the World War II Observation Tower where 360-degree views are spectacular. Or take a short climb to the top of the former military bunker to view the dynamic action along the Atlantic coastline. Explore the coastal environment along the Seaside or Pinelands Nature Trails or just stroll the six miles of beach to listen to the relaxing surf and feel the sand between your toes. Campsites are available to accommodate everything from a tent to full-sized RVs and there are also camper cabins available for reservation.
Recent campers say: “Great park with lots to do,” “Nice beach, gets VERY crowded in the summer,” “This place is phenomenally beautiful,”
15099 Cape Henlopen Drive
Lewes, DE 19958
302-645-8983
For reservation, please go to their website
MARYLAND
Bay Shore Campground: Rock Hall, MD
Image by Monica Schatz
On the scenic shores of Chesapeake Bay, Bay Shore Campground is a perfect home base for all the activities of the region. You may choose to try bird watching, crabbing, fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating, hunting, sailing, fishing charters, shopping, dining, hiking, and more. Bay Shore Campground offers sites for luxury RVs to the most basic tent camping. The site is pet-friendly and offers two bathhouses, including full showers and hookups. In addition, a game room, boat ramp, sea glass, basketball, volleyball and more are available.
Recent campers say: “Nice campground. Beautiful sunrise and sunset location,” “Worth the price,” “Hands down the best campground I have ever stayed at,”
4228 Eastern Neck Road
Rock Hall, MD 21661
410-639-7485
For reservations, please go to their websites
