Camping areas within 30 miles of Delaware City provide multiple terrain options across Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. The region contains deciduous woodlands typical of the Mid-Atlantic with moderate humidity in summer months and temperatures averaging 75°F from May through September. Several locations offer equestrian access with varying facilities for trail riding and overnight horse camping.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area in Maryland contains extensive multi-purpose trails for equestrians with well-maintained riding surfaces. This area connects directly to camping sites with electrical hookups convenient for horse trailers.
Kayaking and canoeing: Lums Pond State Park Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities on its pond. "Kayaking, Going Ape, and peaceful. Planning my next trip," notes camper Leah H. The park prohibits gasoline motors, creating a quiet water experience.
Hiking through forests: Blackbird State Forest Campground features several trails through wooded terrain. "We'd occasionally see people walking by but not enough that it didn't still feel secluded. Nice hikes in the area, great weekend!" reports Emily M. Trails range from beginner-friendly to moderate difficulty.
Fishing access: Multiple fishing spots exist at local ponds and lakes. "Tuckahoe State Park offers great hiking, biking, kayaking and fishing. You can rent kayaks, canoes and fishing gear," explains Jessica K. Common fish species include bass, pike and various panfish.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds feature generous spacing between sites with natural barriers. At Hibernia County Park, "Each site has a picnic table or two, and a fire ring with a built in grill. Plenty of firewood to be found," according to Anna.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathrooms and facilities receive frequent mention. At Lums Pond State Park, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," states Mark in his review.
Trail connections: Direct access to trail systems from campsites appears as a common positive. Blackbird State Forest provides "large campsites at the Lake Loop" with "walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," according to Chelsea.
Family-friendly amenities: Several equestrian campgrounds near Delaware City include facilities designed for families. Tuckahoe State Park "has a really nice playground for kids (which is separate from the campground)" and sites that are "spaced out nicely," according to Jessica K.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. For Lums Pond, "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. Weekends typically require advance planning, especially during summer months.
Limited facilities at some locations: Varies significantly between parks. Hibernia County Park offers only primitive camping with "no hook ups," reports John Z., who adds it's "inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring."
Horse-specific regulations: Several campgrounds have specific rules regarding equestrian use. No dedicated horse corrals exist at most sites, requiring portable containment systems. Trail access may require permits at certain locations.
Seasonal operations: Operating schedules vary by location. French Creek State Park remains open year-round while others have limited seasons. "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Lums Pond.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. "My daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)," reports Mark about facilities at Lums Pond State Park.
Site selection matters: Choose sites strategically based on bathroom proximity. At Tuckahoe State Park, "Some engineering genius put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers...keep your shoes handy, it's a hike," warns al K.
Consider camper cabins: For families less comfortable with tent camping, cabins provide an alternative. Tuckahoe State Park Campground offers "8 camper cabins, 4 on each loop" with "beds for 4 or 6 people, and the cabins have air conditioning, a ceiling fan and electricity," according to Mary S.
Water activities options: Several locations offer kid-friendly water recreation. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing" at Hibernia County Park, reports Anna, making it ideal for younger anglers.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger rigs. At Hibernia County Park, "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there," warns Jennifer S. about the Lake Loop, though "there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18" in another section.
Hookup availability: Electrical access varies between parks. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," notes Jen R., adding that "sites were not on top of each other."
Dump station locations: Not all parks provide this service. At Hibernia, "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee," according to Jennifer S.
Water access points: Information about water connections helps with planning. "There is one spigot at the 'bathroom'" at Hibernia County Park, and RVers should "come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S.
