Camping near Wilmington, Delaware offers several options for outdoor recreation within a 30-mile radius. The region's coastal plain topography features elevations under 400 feet, with humid summers reaching 85-90°F and mild winters. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though water systems at some locations may shut down from November through March.
What to do
Hiking varied terrain: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, visitors access a 7-mile hiking trail and an 8-mile multi-purpose trail connected to the campground. "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 Mark from a recent stay.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access with varying catch potential. "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," reports one Lums Pond camper, while French Creek State Park Campground provides two lakes stocked with "northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish."
Water recreation: Several parks feature lakes for non-motorized boats. "There's a huge lake where you can rent canoes and kayaks," notes one French Creek visitor, while Lums Pond accommodates "boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Elk Neck State Park Campground receives consistent praise for site layout. "Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface. Back in and pull through sites available," notes Laure D. Similarly, at French Creek State Park, campers appreciate that "the campsites are not right on top of one another. There is a lot of shade and the campground is laid out well."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards vary across campgrounds but some maintain excellent facilities. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," reports a Lums Pond camper. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, "The restrooms were immaculate compared to most campgrounds."
Accessibility to urban areas: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for city excursions. "This is a very nice KOA, just over the Delaware River from Philly. It's easy to navigate to the park from the interstate, and big rigs fit easily. I would definitely plan to stay here to visit Philly!" writes Jason E. about the Clarksboro KOA, noting its strategic location for exploring Philadelphia.
What you should know
Reservation difficulties: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond... Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B.
Variable water quality: Some campgrounds have water issues visitors should prepare for. At Parvin State Park Campground, "The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing... The toilets were clean but had the orange staining from the iron in the water."
Bathroom maintenance: Facility conditions fluctuate based on usage and staffing. "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken... Most of the showers were out of order," reports a recent Parvin visitor. Similarly at French Creek, "I was very disappointed in the cleanliness of the women's bathroom. Let me just say I went one time and didn't go back."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature excellent play areas for children. "The playground at the campground is very nice and new," notes a French Creek visitor, while at Lums Pond, "Our daughter really enjoyed the playground (which was excellent, by my standards)."
Swimming options: Several parks have dedicated swimming areas. "There is a pool that is open Memorial Day-Labor Day," notes a Clarksboro KOA visitor, while French Creek offers "a huge pool that has a beautiful view overlooking the lake."
Family-friendly activities: Old Cedar Campground organizes regular events for children. "Every Saturday they had an organized activity for the kids... They had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great - playground was adequate. Mini golf was fun for all."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV site specifications vary significantly across campgrounds. At Old Cedar, "The all-grass site just fit our 37' motor home," while at Lums Pond, "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
Hookup considerations: Water connections may require additional planning at some locations. "The water hookups are shared every other site (at least in the Fence Loop). I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses," advises an Old Cedar visitor.
Off-season availability: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Wilmington maintain year-round operations. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," reports a camper at Elk Neck State Park, providing a valuable option for winter camping with pets.
