Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Pennsylvania
111

Pennsylvania State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Pennsylvania
South-Central Region
French Creek State Park
start slideshow
French Creek State Park © Donna Davis
French Creek State Park © Donna Davis
French Creek State Park © Donna Davis
French Creek State Park © Donna Davis
French Creek State Park sunrise © Kevin Brett
September sunrise over Hopewell Lake in French Creek State Park
French Creek State Park fisherman © Kevin Brett
Great Blue Heron on an island in Hopewell Lake, French Creek State Park
French Creek State Park © Donna Davis
French Creek State Park Lake Swan © Bobbie Alexander
Fall morning swan with the lake all to himself
French Creek State Park Winter Solstice © Bobbie Alexander
French Creek State Park Last Fishing of the Season © Bobbie Alexander
Morning fog lifts off the lake around a lone fisherman enjoying the crisp weather
French Creek State Park Fall Sunrise © Bobbie Alexander
A beautiful fall morning at sunrise
French Creek State Park Early Fall Fishing © Bobbie Alexander
A warm fall day is perfect for a fishing outing
French Creek State Park Early Morning Canoe Ride © Bobbie Alexander
French Creek State Park Lake Freeze © Bobbie Alexander
A cold windy morning after a snowfall
French Creek State Park Dusk on a Winter Lake © Bobbie Alexander
French Creek State Park Scenic Lakefront © Bobbie Alexander
Fall morning at the lakefront
French Creek State Park Good Morning Sunshine © Bobbie Alexander
A lake swan enjoys a morning stretch at sunrise
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
FRENCH CREEK STATE PARK
FRENCH CREEK STATE PARK
843 Park Road
Elverson, Pennsylvania   19520

Phone: 610-582-9680
Toll Free: 888-727-2757
Reservations: 888-727-2757
Email: park email button icon
Set amidst the old, quaint and picturesque farmland of southeast Pennsylvania, French Creek offers two lakes--Hopewell and Scotts Run, extensive forests and almost 40 miles of hiking trails. Adjacent to the park lies Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site that features a cold-blast furnace restored to its 1830s appearance.

The heavily forested, scenic hills of French Creek State Park provide habitat for plants and animals in the ever-expanding urban environment of southeastern Pennsylvania. Large oak, poplar, hickory, maple, and beech trees cover much of the park, with a sparse understory of mountain laurel, rhododendron and other brushy plants. Wetlands and pristine streams flowing through rich, damp creek valleys offer additional habitats for plants and animals. This large, diverse environment supports many animals that take advantage of the high quality of the resources found at French Creek. If you are observant while at the park you will see deer, squirrels, raccoons, songbirds, and numerous other small animals and birds. The park sustains good populations of resident birds and animals, but also serves as an important stop for migratory species using the woodlands, streams, lakes, and wetlands for food and cover.
Cabins
Ten furnished modern cabins, nestled among the hardwoods, offer a pleasant alternative to state park camping. Each cabin features sleeping for six, electric heat, kitchen, private bath with shower, and wall to wall carpeting. Bring your own dishes, cookware and bedding. Cabins are can be reserved year-round.

Organized Group Cabin Camps:

Group cabin camps are open to organized youth and adult groups from April 15 to October 15 of each year. These facilities include dining halls, central washhouses, camper cabins and staff quarters. Camp One holds 135 people. Camp Two holds 68 people. Applications are accepted from September 15 to November 15, for first consideration.
Camping
Camping is available year-round at 201 wooded, modern sites that are with in easy access to shower and flush toilet facilities. Over 50 sites have electric hookups and more may be added in the future.

Organized Group Tenting:

Qualified organized groups can camp in the primitive group tenting area. One site holds 60 people and 16 sites each hold 30 people. A portion of this area is open year-round. Reservations are required.
Nearby Accommodations
businesss listing main photo
BBs / Inns
Spend the night in an art gallery Romantic BB in Lancaster County with gas fireplaces in all rooms, two with Jacuzzi's. Gourmet breakfasts. Near antique center, outlets, Amish attractions.
14.3 miles from park*
businesss listing main photo
Waynebrook Inn - Honey Brook, PA
Hotels/Motels
Come experience the rich history and refined hospitality of the Waynebrook Inn, Est. 1865. Our charming full service hotel has been splendidly refurbished and is nestled in the midst of beautiful Amish farm country near Lancaster in historic Chester County. At the Waynebrook you can experience that rarity among country inns along with the amenities of a full service hotel...the elegance and beguiling charm of American Inns of yesteryear coupled with the modern conveniences today's travelers demand.
10.3 miles from park*
Places To Find Supplies
businesss listing main photo
Waynebrook Inn - Honey Brook, PA
Restaurant
Come experience the rich history and refined hospitality of the Waynebrook Inn, Est. 1865. Our charming full service hotel has been splendidly refurbished and is nestled in the midst of beautiful Amish farm country near Lancaster in historic Chester County. At the Waynebrook you can experience that rarity among country inns along with the amenities of a full service hotel...the elegance and beguiling charm of American Inns of yesteryear coupled with the modern conveniences today's travelers demand.
10.3 miles from park*
Swimming
Swimming is offered at the swimming pool by Hopewell Lake from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, unless otherwise posted. A fee is charged. The pool is located near the shore of the lake and provides a beautiful setting for swimmers and sunbathers. Certified lifeguards are on duty when the pool is open. During the swimming season a food concession is open at the pool complex. Firewood, charcoal, and other picnic supplies are also sold.

A picnic pavilion inside the pool complex is available for rent. Reservations must be made at the pool entrance.

All children nine years of age or less must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible person. One such person shall supervise no more than five children. Swimming is not permitted in either lake.
Boating
Boating: electric motors permitted

Boat launching is provided at each lake, as noted on the map. Seasonal boat mooring spaces are available from April 1 to November 15 at each lake. Contact the park office for mooring information.

Boat rentals are available daily at the Hopewell Lake pool complex from Memorial Day to Labor Day and on weekends during May and September.

Motorboats must display a boat registration from any state. Non-powered boats must display one of the following: boat registration from any state; launching permit or mooring permit from Pennsylvania State Parks that are available at most state park offices; launch use permit from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

Inflatable watercraft devices used on Pennsylvania State Park waters must meet the following requirements: the craft must be made of a tough material, have more than one buoyancy chamber, and be a minimum of seven feet long.

Air propeller driven boats, sea planes, air mattresses and surf boards are not permitted.
Fishing
Enjoy fishing in two large lakes, Hopewell and Scotts Run. Species include largemouth bass, catfish, carp and various panfish. Trout is stocked annually for a springtime catch. Ice-fishing is allowed during winter months when conditions permit it safely.


Location
French Creek State Park is located near Birdsboro, Boyertown and Chester Springs

Picnicking
Tables are located throughout the park with two specific areas noted on the map. Picnicking near Hopewell Lake offers easy access to surrounding activities. Scotts Run is a peaceful place for a family picnic.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore over 35 miles of trails, but be aware they range from easy to difficult.

The Hopewell Big Woods Trail is a popular choice for cyclists; however, it's challenging with steep inclines.

For beginners or families, the multi-use trail offers an easier ride through scenic woodland and lake views.

Mountain bikers should note that some paths are rocky and uneven - proper equipment and caution are advised here.

Remember: biking isn't permitted on all trails so check signage before setting off to avoid disappointment.

Finally, always wear appropriate safety gear when cycling as accidents can occur even in controlled environments like these.
Nature Programs
The park naturalist leads walks and hikes and gives evening talks and demonstrations, during the spring, summer and fall seasons. Check the park activity schedule, bulletin boards, and at the park office for program times and locations. Organized groups such as scouts and schools may schedule activities by calling the park office.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy over 200 species of birds, including hawks and warblers. The park is a designated Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society due to its diverse habitats. It offers birding programs for all ages throughout the year. Visitors may also spot waterfowl on Hopewell Lake or Scotts Run Lake during migration seasons.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 25
park review stars; one to five We had a lovely time canoeing amongst the water lilies.
September 2 Great Park and plenty to do! by DRH
park review stars; one to five We went fishing at French Creek and had a blast. The water is perfect and we even caught fish! We ventured out and stayed at a wonderful historic country Inn called the Waynebrook Inn, about 10 minutes south on Rt 10. The place was absolutely charming and the restaurant was the best we experienced in months. So, go...play and if you are staying overnight...check out the WayneBrook Inn.
August 11 One of the best in PA. by LANDSCAPER.
park review stars; one to five I have been to a few St. Parks in PA and I personally believe this is one of the best. Good hiking, grounds kept nice, cabins are great.
write a review read more reviews
Share On

Area Campgrounds
Warwick Woods Campground
401 Trythall Road
St. Peters, PA
610-286-9655
Sill's Family Campground
PO Box 566
Adamstown, PA
717-484-4806
Brandywine Creek Campground
1091 Creek Road
Lyndell, PA
610-942-9950
Oak Creek Campground
400 E Maple Grove Road
Bowmansville, PA
717-445-6161
Sun Valley Campground
451 East Maple Grove Road
Bowmansville, PA
717-445-6262
Birchview Farm Campground
100 Birchview Drive
Coatesville, PA
610-384-0500
Lake In Wood Campground
576 Yellow Hill Road
Narvon, PA
717-445-5525
Sun Valley Campground
451 East Maple Grove Road
Narvon, PA
717-445-6262
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Terenchin's Live Bait & Tackle
1221 Philadelphia Ave
Reading, PA
(610) 777-6003
Kurtz Fish Farm
161 Isabella Rd
Elverson, PA
(610) 286-9250
South Birdsboro Archery Rod & Gun Club
470 Geigertown Rd
Douglassville, PA
(610) 582-5026
Area Cabins and Lodges
PSHS Inc
5028 Camp Rd
Mohnton, PA
(717) 445-6330
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
French Creek State Park is located off of PA 345, south of Birdsboro, Pennsylvania, and north of PA 23. The park is in Berks and Chester Counties.

state route ranger badge
Pennsylvania
111

Pennsylvania State Parks

X