Camping opportunities near Newark, Delaware provide access to the extensive forests and waterways of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The area maintains relatively mild temperatures year-round with an average of 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush camping environments through spring and fall. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 50-300 feet above sea level, offering both riverside and woodland settings for campers with pets.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail networks: At French Creek State Park Campground, visitors can access over 35 miles of marked trails for day hikes. "There are many trails for walking, hiking or biking as well," notes Sandy E. from Lums Pond. The park includes both Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake, providing multiple water features during hikes.
Visit historical landmarks: Several campgrounds offer access to nearby historical sites. "There is the Reading and Berks County Visitors Bureau and Chester County Visitors Bureau, State Game Lands 43, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and Daniel Boone Homestead," notes Jen R. from French Creek State Park.
Water activities: Susquehanna State Park Campground offers multiple water recreation options. "We scared a bunch of deer (ok they scared me!!) and checked out the giant old growth trees, hiked over a bridge and stream which was full of fish I could see! Turned around after I got to the Susquehanna itself," reports Anne L. The river access points provide opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Disc golf courses: Several parks offer frisbee golf opportunities. "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!" mentions Jen R. about French Creek. These courses provide an alternative activity when taking breaks from hiking or water sports.
What campers like
Clean, modern bathhouses: Elk Neck State Park Campground maintains well-kept facilities. "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated," writes Jen V. about Susquehanna State Park. Many campgrounds feature individual shower stalls with hot water and convenient washing stations.
Nature observation opportunities: Wildlife viewing ranks highly among camper reviews. "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," notes Kate J. about Elk Neck State Park. The waterfront camping areas provide excellent viewing platforms for migratory birds and resident wildlife throughout the seasons.
Spacious sites with privacy: Most campgrounds feature sites with good separation. "The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun," writes Adam and Suzanne B. about Lums Pond. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, "Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood. The ground is dirt covered with woodchips and sometimes evergreen needles -- pretty easy to sleep in a tent," according to D R.
Honor system amenities: Several parks maintain flexible services. "They also sell ice and firewood at the campstore AND there is an honor system with it available to you after the campstore hours. This is great so that you don't have to time things around when the campstore is open," mentions Jennifer S. about Susquehanna State Park.
What you should know
Site terrain varies significantly: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for tent campers. At Susquehanna State Park, "not all of the sites had a path to the bathhouse, and the path that they did have was also very rocky and covered in roots," reports Jennifer S. Similarly, at Woodlands Camping Resort, "we had to use a paper plate to rake as many rocks and gravel from the site so we could put up our tent without ripping it."
Seasonal operating schedules: Many campgrounds close or reduce services during winter months. "It was cold so we asked to be put close to bathrooms so we could leave camper winterized," reports Paula about Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. Always check current operating dates as they often change yearly.
Reservation competition: Securing spots requires advance planning. "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond. I don't know if it's the host campers or the management, but they're definitely doing something right," notes Mark from Lums Pond State Park. Popular weekends often book months in advance, particularly for full hookup sites.
Water conditions vary: Water access points may have unpredictable conditions. "The river was running pretty high and fast, pretty cool to see," remarks Anne L. about Susquehanna State Park. Water levels and current strengths fluctuate seasonally, affecting swimming and boating opportunities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jellystone Park™ Quarryville offers extensive child-friendly facilities. "They have the pools and playgrounds and fishing. Also the bonus of the hot tub being dropped off for two days," shares Mya M. Multiple campgrounds feature newly renovated play structures positioned central to camping loops.
Nature programs: Many state parks offer ranger-led activities. "This campground is very family friendly. We saw so many children running around having a great time!" writes Jalissa Y. about Elk Neck State Park. Weekend programming typically includes nature walks, junior ranger activities, and outdoor skills demonstrations.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites strategically for family comfort. "I had chosen this site, based on two factors: 1. It was available and 2. It was close to the playground. Unfortunately, it was most likely available because it was overrun with roots and rocks (no pad for the tent)- and you also couldn't see the playground from the site," advises Jennifer S. from Susquehanna State Park.
Pet-friendly trail systems: For pet friendly camping near Newark, Delaware, trail accessibility matters. "We took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore. 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," describes Mark from Lums Pond.
Tips from RVers
Hookup access considerations: When seeking dog-friendly RV camping near Newark, Delaware, verify site layouts. "The road on the FHU loop is narrow and hilly. Our site was uphill and at a difficult angle. Plenty of bigger TTs and 5th wheels were camping," advises Adam and Suzanne B. about Elk Neck State Park. Many campgrounds have site-specific limitations for larger rigs.
Pad construction: Most state parks feature solid parking surfaces. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," notes Jen R. from French Creek State Park. This feature helps maintain level position even during rainy conditions when soil can soften.
Service availability: Utility access varies by loop. "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," advises Jen R. Campground maps typically indicate maximum vehicle lengths for each site.
Seasonal maintenance challenges: Winter camping requires special preparation. "We were able to shower and be completely dry - no damp areas whatsoever - and then I wrapped up my hair to dry. It held every drop of water - no leaks," shares Jen R. about using quick-dry towels during cold-weather camping at French Creek State Park.
