Lums Pond State Park offers tent, RV, and glamping accommodations just 12 miles southwest of Newark, Delaware. The region sits within the Piedmont Plateau with elevations typically below 400 feet. Glamping options near Newark have expanded beyond traditional tents, with several parks now featuring climate-controlled units that include electricity and modern furnishings.
What to do
Hiking through history: At French Creek State Park Campground, trails connect to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. "We took our daughter's 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," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer ponds and waterways for fishing enthusiasts. "There is a very nice playground situated conveniently between the loops of the campground. It had some slides, a bridge, lots of monkey bars, ladders to climb on and the best feature was the zip line," reports a camper at French Creek State Park.
Equestrian trails: Horse riders can find suitable paths at Hibernia County Park. "The park itself is beautiful. There is a children's pond as well. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," mentions one reviewer. Sites cost $15 per night with basic amenities.
Off-season activities: When temperatures drop, many parks remain open with reduced crowds. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," reports a winter visitor to French Creek State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the ample room between sites. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, one camper noted, "Fishing available!!! Big sell for me." Another reviewer mentioned, "We spent the Memorial Day weekend at Philadelphia/ West Chester KOA Holiday in Coatesville, PA and had a good time. Great site (once you're in it!) including patio furniture on a paver patio and seating around an upgraded fire pit."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently highlighted in reviews. At Susquehanna State Park Campground, a camper observed, "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated."
Peaceful settings: Many campers value the quiet atmosphere. "The entire park is quiet and well-maintained," writes a reviewer about Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. Another camper at Susquehanna State Park noted, "Site was very shaded, and probably the most secluded feel of anywhere we've camped."
Amish country views: The Lancaster-New Holland KOA offers unique cultural experiences. "Has a great view of the valley and Amish farms. Everyone has been very friendly," notes one visitor. Another adds, "Beautiful valley views of Amish country."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular parks fill quickly, especially during peak season. "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations. Book early because it fills up fast!" advises one regular visitor.
Limited hookups: Some parks have minimal or no utility connections. At Hibernia County Park, a reviewer points out: "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank."
Varying site quality: Not all sites are created equal. "Many of the sites surrounding ours were very rocky and left little option for a larger than normal sized tent so keep this in mind if you have a large family sized tent," warns a camper about French Creek State Park.
Weather considerations: The mid-Atlantic region can experience sudden weather changes. "We had rain one evening and it would have been nice to watch tv or stream a movie," notes a Lancaster-New Holland KOA visitor, highlighting the lack of WiFi and cable at some sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville specializes in family entertainment. "Very family friendly park. Cabins, RV, Tent - full amenities. Lots of things to do. A little pricy, but worth it especially with kids," shares one visitor. The water features particularly impress families: "Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."
Age-appropriate activities: Consider height restrictions when planning activities. One parent at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park noted, "The pool and splash park were great but you needed to be at least 42 inches to go on the slide or bounce house."
Playground access: When selecting a site, consider proximity to play areas. "The playground was fantastic, though, it was not shaded. It is also in the middle of the Acorn and Beechnut loop," mentions a Susquehanna State Park visitor.
Off-peak visits: For quieter family experiences, consider weekday stays. "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet," reports a Lums Pond visitor, highlighting the benefit of non-peak timing.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific rig requirements. At French Creek State Park, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," reports one RVer.
Backing challenges: Some parks have tight turns or obstacles. A Philadelphia-West Chester KOA visitor warned, "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "The bathroom at the campground is very nice and new however it is a little on the dirty side," noted a French Creek State Park visitor during off-season camping.
Utility planning: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level. Close to shopping if needed," advises a camper about Lums Pond State Park.
