Ridley creek state park campsite 13

1023 sycamore mills rd media pa 19063

For organized groups across Pennsylvania looking for an accessible and engaging outdoor experience, Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13 offers a fantastic solution. Nestled within the vast and picturesque Ridley Creek State Park in Upper Providence Township, this particular campsite is designated specifically for group tenting, providing a unique opportunity to connect with nature and each other in a structured yet natural setting. Just a short drive from Philadelphia, it’s an ideal escape from urban life, offering fresh air, expansive green spaces, and a wealth of recreational activities.

This article will provide a detailed overview of Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13, focusing on its features, services, and why it's a perfectly suitable choice for local groups. We'll explore its convenient location, the amenities available, and the diverse activities within the surrounding state park that will enhance any group's outing. Whether you're planning a scout troop adventure, a youth group retreat, or a large family gathering, Campsite 13 offers a memorable and enriching outdoor experience right here in our backyard.

Ridley Creek State Park itself spans over 2,606 acres of Delaware County woodlands and meadows, bisected by the serene Ridley Creek. This expansive natural setting is a significant draw, providing a diverse ecosystem for exploration and recreation. Campsite 13, as a group tenting area, caters specifically to larger parties, ensuring dedicated space and facilities designed for collective enjoyment. While it offers a rustic camping experience, it also provides essential amenities to ensure comfort. It's a place where groups can bond over shared experiences like hiking miles of trails, observing abundant wildlife, or simply gathering around a campfire. The park's commitment to preserving its natural and historical resources means that visitors get to experience a piece of Pennsylvania's heritage alongside their outdoor adventure. The opportunity to explore historic sites like the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation or the elegant Hunting Hill Mansion within the same park adds an educational and cultural dimension to the outdoor stay, making it more than just a camping trip.

Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13 is located within Ridley Creek State Park, specifically designated by the general address WGWX+H6, Upper Providence Township, PA 19063, USA. For more precise navigation to the park's main entrance, it's recommended to use the address 351 Gradyville Road, Newtown Square, PA 19073, which leads to Sandy Flash Drive South at Gradyville Road. The park office is located at 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media, PA 19063.

This location is incredibly accessible for many Pennsylvanians, particularly those in the southeastern part of the state. It is conveniently situated just 16 miles from Center City Philadelphia, making it an ideal destination for groups from the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area seeking a quick and easy escape into nature without extensive travel. The park's proximity to major suburban centers ensures that grocery stores, emergency services, and other essential amenities are within a reasonable driving distance, providing peace of mind for group leaders. The park's infrastructure, including paved roads and designated parking areas, further enhances its accessibility for groups arriving by various means of transportation.

Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13, as part of the Organized Group Tenting area, offers specific services tailored for group camping:

• Group Tent Sites: The campsite is designed for organized group tenting, with a capacity of up to 120 people. This makes it ideal for scout troops, youth groups, school outings, or large family gatherings.
• Restrooms with Flush Toilets: A bathhouse with flush toilets is available within the group tenting area, providing a significant convenience for campers. Note that showers are typically not available within this specific group tenting facility.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is provided, essential for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: While not explicitly detailed for each group site, it is standard for state park group camping areas to include picnic tables and fire rings for communal meals and campfires.
• Playfield: A playfield is available within the organized group tenting area, offering space for group activities and games.
• Park Office Access: Visitors have access to the main park office for information, assistance, and to address any concerns.
• Permit System: Camping is by reservation and permit only, ensuring organized use and availability for groups.
• Seasonal Availability: The group tenting area is available for use from April to October.

• Expansive State Park Setting: Campsite 13 is nestled within Ridley Creek State Park, encompassing over 2,606 acres of diverse landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and the beautiful Ridley Creek.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts over 12 miles of hiking paths and a five-mile paved path suitable for bicycling and cross-country skiing in winter. There's also a 4.7-mile equestrian trail. This offers abundant opportunities for group activities and exploration.
• Wildlife and Birdwatching: The park is home to abundant wildlife and a variety of birds, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography.
• Fishing Opportunities: Ridley Creek is an approved trout water and is regularly stocked, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts within the group.
• Historic Attractions: Within the park, groups can visit the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, a living history farm that provides insights into 18th-century farm life, or explore the Hunting Hill Mansion and its formal gardens.
• Environmental Education Programs: The park offers hands-on environmental education and interpretive programming, which can be an enriching addition to any group's stay.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables and designated picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, including reservable pavilions for larger gatherings.
• Proximity to Philadelphia: Being just 16 miles from Center City Philadelphia, the park offers a convenient "escape from urban life" for groups from the metropolitan area.
• Managed Environment: As a Pennsylvania State Park facility, the campground and surrounding park are managed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), ensuring a level of maintenance and adherence to regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience.

As Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13 is a Pennsylvania State Park facility managed by the DCNR, it typically operates on a standardized fee structure for group tenting reservations. Direct "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense (like discounts for early booking or off-peak seasons) are not commonly advertised for state park campsites.

However, the "offer" for Pennsylvania locals comes in the form of accessible, well-maintained, and affordable group camping within a premier state park. The value lies in the extensive amenities and activities provided by the park system for a standard reservation fee. Group leaders should inquire about the specific rates for their desired dates and group size when making a reservation. Any potential cost savings would likely be through the inherent affordability of state park camping compared to private campgrounds, especially for large groups. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it is essential to contact the park directly or use the official state park reservation system.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13 (Organized Group Tenting), Pennsylvania locals can use the following contact details:

Address for Park Office: 1023 Sycamore Mills Road, Media, PA 19063

General Park Phone: (610) 892-3900

Reservation Phone: To reserve a group tent campsite, call 888-PA-PARKS (888-727-2757). This line is typically available Monday to Saturday, 7:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. (except on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day holidays).

Website: For comprehensive information and to make online reservations, visit the official Pennsylvania State Parks website and search for Ridley Creek State Park. The DCNR website (dcnr.pa.gov) is the authoritative source for park details and booking.

It is highly recommended to make reservations well in advance, as popular group campsites, especially those easily accessible from major metropolitan areas, can be booked quickly.

Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13 stands as an exceptionally suitable choice for organized groups of Pennsylvania locals, offering a blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and structured recreational opportunities. Its prime location, just 16 miles from Center City Philadelphia, makes it an ideal and convenient escape for scout troops, school groups, youth organizations, and large family gatherings from across southeastern Pennsylvania. This minimal travel time means more time dedicated to enjoying the outdoors and less time spent on the road.

The dedicated group tenting area (Campsite 13) provides essential amenities like flush toilets and potable water, offering a comfortable yet authentic rustic camping experience. The ample space, capable of accommodating up to 120 people, ensures that even large groups can find suitable accommodation together, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and shared adventure. The presence of a playfield further enhances its suitability for groups with younger members, providing dedicated space for games and activities.

Beyond the campsite itself, the extensive offerings of Ridley Creek State Park are a major draw. The miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding provide endless possibilities for outdoor exploration and physical activity. The park's abundant wildlife and status as a stocked trout stream offer engaging opportunities for nature observation and fishing, enriching the outdoor experience. The historical elements within the park, such as the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation, add a unique educational dimension, allowing groups to learn about Pennsylvania's heritage in an immersive setting.

Furthermore, as a Pennsylvania State Park, Ridley Creek benefits from the professional management and maintenance of the DCNR, ensuring a safe, clean, and well-regulated environment. This provides peace of mind for group leaders and parents, knowing that the facilities adhere to state standards. For any Pennsylvania group looking to foster teamwork, learn about nature, and create lasting memories in an accessible and well-equipped natural setting, Ridley Creek State Park Campsite 13 is an outstanding choice that truly caters to the needs of local communities.

Ridley creek state park campsite 13

WGWX+H6, Upper Providence Township, PA 19063, USA