French Creek SP PA Loop A

Nestled within the expansive and picturesque French Creek State Park, Loop A campground presents a wonderful opportunity for Pennsylvanians to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. As a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, this campground offers a blend of modern conveniences and rustic charm, making it an ideal spot for a local escape. Whether you're a seasoned RVer or looking for a comfortable tent camping experience, Loop A provides a welcoming environment to unwind and explore the diverse natural beauty that southeastern Pennsylvania has to offer.

French Creek State Park, encompassing nearly 8,000 acres of woodlands, lakes, and diverse habitats, is a true gem in the heart of Pennsylvania. Loop A, one of the park's well-maintained campground sections, is designed to cater to a variety of camping preferences. It’s a place where the fresh air invigorates, and the sounds of nature provide a peaceful backdrop to your outdoor adventure.

This destination is not just about pitching a tent or parking your RV; it's about reconnecting with the outdoors, enjoying quality time with loved ones, and discovering the hidden wonders of your own backyard. From morning hikes to evening campfires, French Creek State Park's Loop A offers the perfect setting for creating lasting memories, all within a convenient drive for most residents across the Commonwealth.

Location and Accessibility

French Creek State Park is strategically located in southeastern Pennsylvania, primarily within Berks and Chester counties. Loop A, as part of this expansive park, is easily accessible for residents across the state. The park's main address for general inquiries and navigation is 843 Park Rd, Elverson, PA 19520, USA. Its proximity to major roadways makes it a convenient drive from various parts of Pennsylvania, including the greater Philadelphia area, Lancaster, and Reading.

For those traveling by car, French Creek State Park can be reached from PA 345, located south of Birdsboro and north of PA 23. Additionally, the Morgantown exits (1A and 1B) of the Pennsylvania Turnpike provide direct access to the park entrances. This central location ensures that a peaceful camping retreat is never too far away for most Pennsylvanians, allowing for quick weekend getaways or longer, more leisurely vacations without extensive travel. The well-marked roads within the park guide you directly to the campground loops, including Loop A, ensuring a smooth arrival for all campers.

Services Offered

• Full Hook-up Sites: Loop A is notable for offering many full hook-up sites, providing convenient access to water, sewer, and electric connections, ideal for RV campers seeking maximum comfort.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and traditional campfire experiences.
• Pet-Friendly Options: Loop A is one of the designated pet-friendly loops within French Creek State Park, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: The campground includes ADA-accessible shower houses and modern restrooms with warm showers, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available within the campground area for RV waste disposal.
• Concession Stand: A food concession is open at the nearby pool complex during the swimming season, offering snacks and refreshments. Firewood, charcoal, and other picnic supplies are also sold there.

Features / Highlights

• Lakes for Fishing and Canoeing: French Creek State Park boasts two beautiful lakes, Hopewell Lake (68 acres) and Scotts Run Lake (22 acres). While swimming is prohibited in the lakes, both offer excellent opportunities for fishing and canoeing. Hopewell Lake is a warm water lake with species like northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, and panfish, while Scotts Run Lake is a cold water lake known for trout fishing. A fishing license is required for individuals 16 years and older. Electric motors are permitted, and boat launches are available. Non-powered boats require a current boat registration or a launching/mooring permit from Pennsylvania state parks or the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
• Swimming Pool: For those looking to cool off, a large swimming pool is available for use near Hopewell Lake. There is a fee for pool admission, typically around $13 per person for daily entry, with season passes also available. The pool is open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with certified lifeguards on duty.
• Hiking and Equestrian Trails: The park offers extensive networks of hiking and equestrian trails, providing ample opportunities for exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of the Hopewell Big Woods. Almost 40 miles of trails are available for enthusiasts.
• Playground: A playground is conveniently located across from Loop A, providing a fun space for younger campers.
• Wooded Surroundings: Many campsites within Loop A are surrounded by trees, offering a sense of privacy and the authentic feeling of camping in the woods.
• Variety of Campsite Types: While Loop A is known for its full hook-up sites, French Creek State Park generally offers a range of options, including electric and non-electric sites, as well as camping cottages and yurts in other loops for those seeking different amenities.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific, ongoing promotions for French Creek State Park's Loop A campground are not widely advertised, it is always recommended to check the official Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) website or the park's reservation portal for any current discounts or seasonal offers. Generally, Pennsylvania State Parks offer competitive rates for their campsites, with full hook-up sites typically priced around $42 per night, and varying rates for electric-only and non-electric sites, as well as camping cottages and yurts. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, and it's advisable to book well ahead, especially for popular weekends and holidays, to secure your preferred site. Keep an eye out for potential off-season rates or special packages that might be available during less peak times, offering a more affordable way to experience the park. Additionally, pool admission fees are separate from camping fees, with daily admission typically costing $13, and various season pass options available for frequent visitors.

Contact Information

For reservations, general inquiries, or further information about French Creek State Park and its Loop A campground, you can reach out directly.

Address: 843 Park Rd, Elverson, PA 19520, USA

Phone Number: For general park information, you can call the park office at (610) 582-9680. For reservations, you may call the Pennsylvania State Parks Reservation Center at 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757), available Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Website: Reservations can also be made online through the Pennsylvania State Parks reservation system on ReserveAmerica.com or the official DCNR website for French Creek State Park.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

French Creek State Park's Loop A campground stands out as an exceptional outdoor destination perfectly suited for Pennsylvania locals. Its convenient location in southeastern PA makes it easily accessible for a quick weekend escape or a more extended vacation without the need for extensive travel. For families, the availability of full hook-up sites in Loop A simplifies the camping experience, particularly for those with RVs, offering amenities that enhance comfort and convenience. The presence of a playground near Loop A ensures that younger visitors have a dedicated space for fun and play, adding to the family-friendly appeal.

Beyond the campground amenities, the surrounding French Creek State Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities right on your doorstep. The two lakes, Hopewell and Scotts Run, provide excellent venues for fishing and canoeing, appealing to anglers and paddlers alike. While lake swimming is not permitted, the readily available swimming pool, though requiring an admission fee, offers a refreshing alternative for a dip on warm days. The vast network of hiking and equestrian trails allows locals to explore the diverse natural landscapes, from dense woodlands to open fields, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy physical activity. The varied terrain and habitats also make the park an important area for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, a treat for nature enthusiasts.

French Creek State Park fosters a strong sense of community among campers and visitors. While some past visitors have noted concerns about specific sites (like Loop A, site 2) regarding space and proximity to utilities, it’s important to remember that campsite experiences can vary, and careful selection during booking is always recommended. Furthermore, a few isolated reports of park rangers being overly strict with noise regulations should be considered within the context of maintaining a peaceful environment for all campers, especially during quiet hours. Most experiences highlight the park's commitment to providing a family-friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.

For Pennsylvanians, French Creek State Park's Loop A campground represents an accessible, affordable, and richly rewarding opportunity to embrace the outdoors. It's a place where you can easily switch off from daily routines, breathe in the fresh air, and create cherished memories with family and friends amidst the beautiful scenery of your home state. From leisurely days by the lake to adventurous hikes, this campground offers a well-rounded outdoor experience that truly caters to the local community's desire for natural recreation and relaxation.

French Creek SP PA Loop A

843 Park Rd, Elverson, PA 19520, USA