French Creek State Park Campground

French Creek State Park Campground serves as a premier outdoor destination for residents and visitors in southeastern Pennsylvania. Spanning nearly 8,000 acres across Berks and Chester counties, the park is the largest block of contiguous forest between Washington D.C. and New York City. This expansive "oasis" offers a perfect blend of rich industrial history and modern recreational opportunities. Whether you are looking for a weekend tent escape or a long-term RV stay, the campground provides a serene environment characterized by dense hardwood forests, shimmering lakes, and well-maintained facilities that cater to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and solo adventurers alike.

The campground is part of a larger ecosystem that includes the Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, offering a unique opportunity to combine natural exploration with a deep dive into America’s early iron-making history. As a state-managed facility, French Creek upholds high standards of conservation and visitor service, making it a reliable choice for Pennsylvanians who value a clean and quiet camping experience. From the vibrant foliage of autumn to the refreshing breezes of summer by the lake, this campground transitions beautifully through the seasons, ensuring there is always a reason to return to the heart of the Schuylkill Highlands.

Location and accessibility are among French Creek State Park’s most significant advantages. The main entrance is located at 410 Park Road, Elverson, PA 19520, making it highly accessible for those traveling from Philadelphia, Reading, or Lancaster. The park can be reached via PA 345, which connects to major routes like PA 23 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). While the park features multiple entrances, campers navigating large RVs or towing trailers are encouraged to use the east entrance off PA 345 to avoid some of the narrower, winding roads and steep inclines found on the southern approaches.

Once inside the park, the campground is well-signposted and features paved main roads that lead to the various camping loops. Accessibility is a core focus of the park’s infrastructure; the facility includes wheelchair-accessible entrances, designated accessible parking lots, and modified restrooms. Several campsites are specifically designed to meet ADA standards, ensuring that the beauty of the Pennsylvania wilderness is available to all visitors regardless of their physical needs. Parking is available on-site, with a free parking lot provided for day-use visitors and specific parking spaces allocated for each individual campsite.

• Diverse camping options including 201 modern sites for tents, trailers, and RVs.
• Full-hookup services at select sites, including sewer, water, and electric (20/30/50 Amp).
• Modern lodging alternatives such as 10 furnished cabins, 3 camping cottages, and 2 yurts.
• Clean, centrally located bathhouses featuring flush toilets and warm showers.
• Dedicated sanitary dump station for RV travelers.
• Pet-friendly camping designated specifically within Loops A and C, allowing dogs to join the family trip.
• On-site park office and contact station providing visitor information and emergency assistance.
• Concession-run swimming pool (seasonal) and boat rental services at Hopewell Lake.
• Organized group tenting areas and historic group cabin camps for youth or adult organizations.

• Access to over 35 miles of hiking trails, including the 6-mile Boone Trail loop.
• Two beautiful lakes: Hopewell Lake (warm water fishery) and Scotts Run Lake (cold water trout fishery).
• Year-round recreational activities including mountain biking, disc golf, and orienteering.
• Family-friendly amenities such as a playground located within the campground area and an amphitheater for interpretive programs.
• Proximity to the historic Hopewell Furnace, allowing for easy walks into a restored 19th-century iron-making village.
• Winter sports opportunities including cross-country skiing, ice skating, and sledding.
• Recognized as an "Important Bird Area" and "Important Mammal Area" for wildlife viewing and nature photography.
• Strictly enforced quiet hours (9:00 PM to 8:00 AM) to ensure a peaceful environment for all guests.

To plan your stay or inquire about current conditions, you can contact the park office directly. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for holiday weekends and the peak summer season, and can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system.

• Address: 410 Park Rd, Elverson, PA 19520, USA
• Phone: (610) 582-9680
• Reservation Toll-Free: 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757)

Choosing French Creek State Park Campground is worth it for those who prioritize a structured, safe, and nature-focused getaway. Unlike many commercial campgrounds that prioritize partying and social noise, French Creek is strictly a "no-alcohol" and "no-noise" zone after dark, making it one of the best choices in Pennsylvania for families with young children. The staff is consistently noted for being helpful and professional, ensuring that even novice campers feel supported during their stay. The variety of terrain—ranging from rocky hills to serene wetlands—means that no two hikes are the same, and the ability to choose between a rustic tent site or a modern heated cabin provides flexibility for all levels of comfort.

Furthermore, the park’s location in the "heart of the furnace" means you are never far from local culture. Within a short drive, you can visit local orchards, farmers' markets, or the nearby towns of Reading and Exton for supplies. For anglers, the presence of both cold-water and warm-water lakes on a single property is a rare luxury, offering everything from stocked trout to largemouth bass. If you are looking for a place where you can truly "unplug" while remaining within an hour's drive of major Pennsylvania cities, French Creek State Park Campground stands as an unrivaled choice for your next outdoor adventure.