Best Campgrounds near Kirkwood, DE

Campgrounds near Kirkwood, Delaware range from state parks to privately owned facilities, providing a mix of amenities and natural settings within a short drive of urban areas. Lums Pond State Park Campground, located in nearby Bear, Delaware, offers year-round camping with accommodations for tents, RVs, and glamping options including yurts. Just across the state line, Maryland's Elk Neck State Park Campground features similar mixed-use options with cabins, tent sites, and RV hookups. Both developed campgrounds maintain wooded settings while providing modern amenities such as electric hookups, showers, and sanitary dump stations.

Most developed campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when demand peaks. As one camper noted about Lums Pond, "Nice smaller campground with large spacious sites. Very level and spaced apart from neighbor if you pick the right spots." The sandy soil common to the Delaware region can affect site conditions, especially after rainfall. Several campgrounds report issues with runoff and flooding during wet periods. Kirkwood's proximity to the Delaware River and Chesapeake Bay influences local weather patterns, creating humid summers and mild winters that support year-round camping opportunities. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region's established campgrounds.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Kirkwood area. Lums Pond offers water recreation opportunities, while campgrounds like Susquehanna State Park provide river views and water activities. A visitor to Susquehanna mentioned, "Wonderful hiking trails with river views. Only caveat - got pretty muddy since it rained the day before and our site didn't have a tent pad." Campers consistently rate sites with tree cover and adequate spacing highly. Several reviews highlight the importance of site selection, as some campgrounds feature a mix of open and wooded sites with varying degrees of privacy. The region's established campgrounds typically offer clean facilities and well-maintained grounds, though bathroom proximity and cleanliness occasionally appear as concerns in user feedback.

Best Camping Sites Near Kirkwood, Delaware (92)

    1. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Great place to stay and check out “Lower, slower Delaware.”"

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    2. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    3. Blackbird State Forest Campground - CLOSED TIL FURTHER NOTICE

    6 Reviews
    Townsend, DE
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 653-6505

    $25 / night

    "The only thing about this site specifically is the trail was close by so you’d occasionally see people walking by but not enough that it didn’t still feel secluded."

    "I was only one in the forest ATM but saw some hikers occasionally throughout the day walking by."

    4. Woodlands Camping Resort

    3 Reviews
    White Hall, MD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 398-4414

    6. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "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."

    "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

    7. Cecil County Permaculture

    1 Review
    North East, MD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (443) 945-5492

    $10 - $16 / night

    "Has outhouse, fire pit, running water on side of house near outhouse. An is a wonderful person. Good reception with T-Mobile!"

    8. Susquehanna State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Edgewood, MD
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 557-7994

    $21 - $50 / night

    "Had a great weekend trip here, close to DC and Delaware. Wonderful hiking trails with river views. Only caveat- got pretty muddy since it rained the day before and our site didn’t have a tent pad."

    "I was a walk-up with no reservation and since it was a weekday the ranger gave me a great rundown of the best spots in the camp and let me drive through to check them out before going back with my decision"

    9. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer

    10 Reviews
    Elmer, NJ
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 451-7479

    "They are new-ish Shasta campers, queen bed, 1 slide, rear bunks, 2 entrances. Very clean. Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."

    "I think the lale could use a little cleanup with the amount of bobbers, string and mess left behind by people. There have ao many cabins its crazy and alot of seasonal rentals."

    10. Delaware Motel and RV Park

    1 Review
    New Castle, DE
    7 miles
    +1 (302) 328-3114
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Recent Reviews near Kirkwood, DE

740 Reviews of 92 Kirkwood Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Scott J.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sun Valley Campground

    My Happy Place

    My wife and I have been seasonal camper for 4 years and love it. We had visited numerous campgrounds and found Sun Valley to be the atmosphere there beyond our expectations. The minute you walk into the office you get that" aha" moment. The office greets you with a smile and " Welcome to Sun Valley, how can I help you ". That alone told us these folks are here to make your stay enjoyable. They go above and beyond any campground we have ever been to. The activities go above and beyond. The Saturday night bands are concert worthy. We have enjoyed our stay more than you ever imagined. For the past 4 years it has been our "Happy Place"

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Fantastic PA state park for activities and camping.

    Third year staying over the Labor Day weekend. Campground full but still a very peaceful relaxing stay. Our site was very spacious and open. Tree lined and site was almost level. Paved sites on this loop.

  • Connie R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Pretty park but needs upkeep and maintenance

    Only stayed one night (8/23/25).  Had an electric site on B 45.  After pulling in and starting to unload, we were getting swarmed with yellow jackets.  There were several entry holes in the ground they were using to enter and exit.  I have never experienced anything like this anywhere.   I would have left but since it was close to dusk, I knew they would all retrieve and go underground.  The smoke with the fire helped but it impacted our stay.  They were everywhere.  I will not be going back anytime during the summer

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!


Guide to Kirkwood

Camping near Kirkwood, Delaware, offers a mix of beautiful parks and campgrounds that cater to all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled family adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds have great hiking trails. For instance, at Susquehanna State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "There is a hiking trail right off Acorn loop which was nice, with options for easy or difficult." This makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: If you enjoy fishing, Muddy Run Rec Park - PPL is a great spot. A camper shared, "The large lake is great for a day of kayaking and fishing with supplies readily available for rent at the boat dock store."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. At Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville, a visitor noted, "Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties and hay rides." This makes it a hit for families looking for entertainment.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Lums Pond State Park Campground said, "Great bath houses, always super clean." Clean facilities can make a big difference in your camping experience.
  • Secluded Sites: Many campers enjoy having some privacy. A visitor at Old Cedar Campground mentioned, "There are a few nice spots tucked away in the woods with plenty of privacy." This is ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Friendly Staff: Campgrounds with helpful staff can enhance your stay. A camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA remarked, "Everyone we came in contact with staff-wise was so friendly." Good service can make your trip more enjoyable.

What you should know:

  • Alcohol Policies: Some campgrounds have strict rules about alcohol. For example, Susquehanna State Park Campground does not allow alcohol, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
  • Site Size and Layout: Be aware that some sites can be small or close together. A camper at Muddy Run Rec Park - PPL noted, "Campsites are way too close to each other. No privacy." It’s good to check the layout before booking.
  • Seasonal Availability: Many campgrounds have specific seasons. For instance, Parvin State Park Campground is open from April 1 to October 31, so plan your trip accordingly.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Make sure to check what activities are available for kids. At Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville, a parent mentioned, "There is now an arcade and a mini water park! This place is awesome for kids and families!"
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring along items that will keep everyone comfortable. A camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA suggested, "They also would deliver firewood to your fire ring which was an awesome touch."
  • Check for Kid-Friendly Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or pools. One reviewer at Old Cedar Campground said, "The pool was clean - they had a few items that they could borrow - fishing was great."

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Make sure your site is level for a comfortable stay. A visitor at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA noted, "Some sites are 'premiums' with paved patios, but the campground is hilly which means that a fair number of sites are not level."
  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground mentioned, "Full hookups on all sites," which is great for RVers.
  • Plan for Trash Disposal: Be aware of trash disposal rules. A camper at Muddy Run Rec Park - PPL said, "Garbage is picked up at your site," which can make things easier for RVers.

Camping around Kirkwood, DE, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Kirkwood, DE?

According to TheDyrt.com, Kirkwood, DE offers a wide range of camping options, with 92 campgrounds and RV parks near Kirkwood, DE and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Kirkwood, DE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kirkwood, DE is Lums Pond State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 48 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kirkwood, DE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Kirkwood, DE.