Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area sits on 5,600 acres of Maryland countryside approximately 13 miles south of Newark, Delaware. Located at elevations ranging from 300 to 450 feet above sea level, the area experiences moderate mid-Atlantic seasons with warm summers and cool winters. The management area connects to several trail networks including paths that cross the Maryland-Delaware state line.
What to do
Kayaking at Lums Pond: Launch from Lums Pond State Park Campground, located 8 miles from Newark with a 200-acre freshwater pond. "The pond is beautiful. We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site," notes one visitor to French Creek State Park Campground.
Horseback riding on maintained trails: The trail system at Fair Hill includes designated bridle paths suitable for various experience levels. Riders can access interconnected paths between Fair Hill and surrounding areas. "Great park setting with fantastic site... Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," mentions a camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Hiking through woodlands: Explore multiple marked trails throughout the region. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," states a visitor to Lums Pond. Another camper adds: "There are a ton of picnic tables too so you can take a lunch and just sit by the lake to relax."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Sites at established campgrounds near Newark offer room to spread out. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer. There are some equestrian and tent sites as well," reports a visitor to Lums Pond. Another camper at Tuckahoe State Park Campground notes: "Nice pads, even with rain none were flooded. The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their service buildings regularly. "I LOVE the commercial-sized washing sink for your dishes, since you don't have full hookups its a BIG deal," mentions a Tuckahoe camper. At Starlite Camping Resort, a visitor remarks: "The facilities are spotless and the campground is maintained to the highest standards I have seen."
Equestrian-focused amenities: Some areas cater specifically to horse owners. "There's an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp. Book early because it fills up fast!" shares a visitor to Lums Pond, which complements the equestrian facilities at Fair Hill.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "We had to make reservations in advance to secure sites, with specific requirements outlined on the official website," a Fair Hill visitor explains. At Lums Pond, a camper advises: "Book early because it fills up fast!"
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Some campgrounds offer basic accommodations. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return! No running water- only port a potties but they were clean," reports a visitor to Blackbird State Forest Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions and facility availability. "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations. Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," states a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds for children: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. "The park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike," shares a Tuckahoe camper. Another visitor mentions: "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)."
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning experiences at nearby historic sites. "If you don't want to hang around the campground there are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," explains a French Creek visitor. For equestrian camping with educational components, Hibernia County Park offers options with "walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful."
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature lakes or ponds for recreation. "Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," reports a visitor to French Creek State Park. Another camper adds: "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with utilities vary by location. "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun. The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms," reports a Lums Pond visitor.
Site layouts and access: Some campgrounds have terrain limitations. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room. It was nice to just be able to back up our camper and have it mostly level already," advises a visitor to Starlite Camping Resort.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide full services. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," notes a Hibernia Park camper who travels with an RV.
