The best camping near Valley Forge National Historical Park

This park salutes the weary Revolutionary War troops that camped here one harsh winter in history, but today's visits are much more pleasant with activities such as walk and bike trials, interactive storytelling, and trolley tours.

Hipcampers typically start at The Park Theater for an epic movie overview of how George Washington's battle-weary men survived the bitter elements here hundreds of years ago.

Next, you can explore the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts complete with guides wearing spot-on historical garb, take in all of the memorial markers and statues around the park, and you can actually go inside of George Washington's and James Varnum's headquarters.

Revolutionary War cannons and muskets reside at the Artillery Park, and you'll catch a breathtaking demonstration of them on Labor Day and Veteran's Day. You can also take part in worship at the active Washington Memorial Episcopal Chapel.

And this is just the beginning; this park is stocked full of both self- and ranger-guided hikes and walks, and there is even a 17-mile horseback trail for the more gallant Hipcampers. There are both private and public tours of the Valley, and there's even a cell phone tour that you can tap into.

There's lots of activities for the whole family; your child can become a certified Junior Ranger and school the wayward adults on the proper ways of exploration, and both kids and adults love the interactive stories told of the history that unfolded plenty scores and years ago. Pets are invited to join in the fun too, just as long as they stay leashed.

Every soldier needs rest, and there are three picnic areas available to relax and enjoy your rations. Some of these are closed in the winter for safety precautions, but this entire park is open until a half an hour after sunset, year-round.