Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is not only rich in history but is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty. I’ve learned that Philadelphia’s suburbs offer some of the best opportunities for outdoor adventures, whether it’s camping in serene forests, kayaking along peaceful rivers, or hiking through scenic trails. If you’re someone who enjoys escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and connecting with nature, the Philadelphia suburbs have countless options that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.
I’m going to share my personal experiences of three unforgettable camping and wilderness adventures I’ve had just outside of Philadelphia. Additionally, I’ll recommend four must-try outdoor activities that I believe are worth every traveler’s time.
My Wilderness Adventures: Exploring Philadelphia’s Suburbs
1. Camping at French Creek State Park
Location:
French Creek State Park is located in Elverson, about 50 miles west of Philadelphia, and is a natural haven with over 7,000 acres of scenic woodlands. The park is easy to access by car, located just off Route 23.
Getting There:
If you’re coming from downtown Philadelphia, I recommend driving west along the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), then taking Route 202 to Route 23. The park has a well-marked entrance and ample parking spaces.
My Experience:
The moment I arrived at French Creek State Park, I was struck by the towering trees and tranquil environment. The park offers both tent and RV campsites, which are spread out in various areas, providing a sense of privacy and connection with nature. I chose to stay in one of their backcountry sites, which required a short hike through the woods to reach. The hike itself was an adventure, with winding trails that led through forested areas and alongside bubbling creeks.
The highlight of my stay was Lake Marburg, which offers peaceful views and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. I rented a kayak from the park’s concession and spent hours paddling through the serene waters, surrounded by trees and wildlife. At night, I camped under the stars, cooking dinner over a campfire and enjoying the sounds of nature around me.
What I Loved:
- Privacy: The backcountry sites were secluded and peaceful, giving me the solitude I craved.
- Variety of Activities: From hiking to fishing and kayaking, there’s something for everyone here.
- Nature: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, and I even spotted some deer while hiking through the woods.
Challenges:
- Weather: The weather in the area can be unpredictable, and I experienced some rain, which made the trails a little slippery. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip.
- Reservations: I would recommend booking early, especially during the summer months when this park becomes a popular destination.
Price:
Camping fees for the standard sites were around $25-$35 per night, and kayak rentals were $20 per hour.
2. Hiking and Wildlife Watching at Ridley Creek State Park
Location:
Located just 10 miles from downtown Philadelphia, Ridley Creek State Park in Newtown Square offers a beautiful escape into nature, complete with miles of hiking trails, wildlife observation areas, and scenic streams. It’s incredibly accessible for those looking for a quick outdoor adventure without straying too far from the city.
Getting There:
Ridley Creek State Park is located off of Route 252, easily accessible by car from Philadelphia. You can take I-95 South and exit at Route 320, which brings you directly to the park entrance.
My Experience:
I spent an entire afternoon exploring Ridley Creek State Park, and I was impressed by the variety of landscapes it offered. The park is home to over 2,600 acres of woodlands, meadows, and streams, making it a perfect spot for hiking and wildlife watching. I began my adventure by walking along the Ridley Creek Trail, a 2.5-mile loop that meanders through scenic forests, past open fields, and alongside the creek. The air was fresh and clean, and I felt completely immersed in the beauty of nature.
Along the way, I was fortunate to spot a family of white-tailed deer grazing near the creek. There were also numerous birds, including blue jays and cardinals, which added to the sense of being surrounded by wildlife. I brought along a pair of binoculars and spent some time observing the birds, which was a delightful and peaceful experience.
What I Loved:
- Ease of Access: Ridley Creek State Park is very close to Philadelphia, making it a perfect option for a day trip.
- Wildlife Watching: The abundance of wildlife made the experience truly special, and it was a great place for birdwatching.
- Variety of Trails: With several different trails to choose from, I was able to tailor my hike based on my time and energy levels.
Challenges:
- Crowds: The park can get a bit crowded on weekends, so if you’re looking for a more secluded experience, it’s best to visit during the week or early in the morning.
- Limited Camping: While the park is perfect for day hikes and picnics, it doesn’t offer as much camping space as some other parks.
Price:
There are no fees for entry, and parking is free. However, if you plan to book a group campsite, prices range from $25 to $50 per night.
3. Kayaking on the Schuylkill River Trail
Location:
The Schuylkill River Trail is a well-known landmark that runs through the heart of Philadelphia, but if you venture slightly out of the city to the Schuylkill River Banks, you’ll find kayaking opportunities that provide a unique experience on the water.
Getting There:
If you’re traveling from central Philadelphia, the easiest way is to walk to the Schuylkill Banks area. The kayak rentals are located near the Schuylkill River Park at 25th and Locust Streets. If you’re driving, there is ample parking nearby.
My Experience:
I had always wanted to experience kayaking along the Schuylkill River, so I rented a kayak from Boathouse Row, just across the river from Schuylkill Banks. As I paddled along the river, I was captivated by the stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline and the lush greenery lining the banks. The river is wide and calm, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced kayakers.
I passed by landmarks like Boathouse Row and the Schuylkill River Trail, which was lined with joggers and cyclists. The calm waters and beautiful scenery made this kayaking adventure one of my highlights in the Philadelphia suburbs. Afterward, I walked along the trail and enjoyed the view of the river as the sun began to set.
What I Loved:
- Scenic Views: The juxtaposition of nature with the Philadelphia skyline provided a striking visual experience.
- Convenience: The location near Schuylkill River Park and the Schuylkill Banks made it easy to rent a kayak and enjoy a few hours on the water.
- Affordable: Renting a kayak was much cheaper than I anticipated, making it an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors.
Challenges:
- Busy on Weekends: The area can be crowded, especially near the popular spots like Boathouse Row.
- Limited Hours: Kayak rentals are only available from spring through fall, so it’s not a year-round activity.
Price:
- Kayak Rentals: Typically around $15 for an hour or $30 for 3 hours.
Recommended Outdoor Activities Around Philadelphia’s Suburbs
Now that I’ve shared some of my favorite wilderness experiences, let me recommend four other activities in the Philadelphia suburbs that are just as thrilling and memorable.
1. Hiking at Wissahickon Valley Park
Located in the Chestnut Hill area, this 1,800-acre park offers miles of trails, including the Forbidden Drive, a scenic route perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. The park is known for its beautiful creek and historic bridges, including the famous Wissahickon Creek.
Best For: Hiking, nature walks, photography
2. Camping at Tyler State Park
Location: Tyler State Park is located in Newtown, about 30 miles north of Philadelphia. It’s a great location for tent camping or RVs, and the park also features over 1,700 acres of woodlands, a lake for kayaking, and scenic hiking trails.
Best For: Camping, picnicking, and fishing.
3. Rock Climbing at Bear Creek Mountain Resort
If you’re seeking a more adventurous outdoor experience, Bear Creek Mountain Resort is just an hour’s drive from Philadelphia. It offers rock climbing, along with skiing in the winter months.
Best For: Rock climbing, mountain biking, and skiing.
4. Ziplining at TreeTop Adventure in Oaks
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, TreeTop Adventure in Oaks, Pennsylvania, offers ziplining and aerial challenges among the trees. It’s one of the best places to get your heart racing while surrounded by beautiful forested landscapes.
Best For: Ziplining, team-building, and high-flying fun.
If you love nature and adventure, the suburbs of Philadelphia are the perfect place to explore. From camping in tranquil forests to kayaking along the Schuylkill River, there’s no shortage of outdoor experiences to enjoy. The three experiences I’ve shared — camping at French Creek, hiking at Ridley Creek, and kayaking on the Schuylkill River — have all become treasured memories.
Philadelphia’s suburbs offer incredible opportunities for camping, hiking, kayaking, and more. Whether you’re a local looking to explore more of your surroundings or a traveler seeking a break from city life, I highly recommend you take a trip to these outdoor gems. Don’t forget to check for discounts and book early for popular activities! Nature is calling — it’s time to answer.