Harrington camping options extend beyond traditional tent and RV sites, with yurt camping available at several state parks within 30 miles. The region sits in the coastal plain of Delaware, with an elevation under 50 feet and sandy soil typical of the Delmarva Peninsula. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder weather and fewer insects.
What to do
Pond exploration by kayak: At Trap Pond State Park Campground in Laurel, paddling offers unique perspectives of the pond environment. "We walked around the pond and rented boats and kayaks for the day and rowed back to our site which the kids loved. They got to spend the day learning to paddle on the pond," notes one visitor. Kayak rentals are available seasonally, with free bike rentals year-round.
Coastal hiking: Cape Henlopen offers 20+ miles of trails through pine forests with views of sand dunes. "The hikes in the campground are beautiful. The historic aspect of the Cape amazed me. It was a site for WWII soldiers to watch for enemy invaders. The towers are still there," reports a camper. Trails vary from easy boardwalks to moderate sandy paths.
Bird watching: Redden State Forest Campground provides secluded spots for wildlife observation in a quiet pine forest setting. "We stayed one night in a small cabin. It was cosy and warm on a cold night for fall. The cabins are clean and tidy and the campground is well run," shares a visitor to Martinak State Park who enjoyed nature observation. Early morning provides the best bird watching opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers well-designed sites. "The tent site was big with lots of choice locations for your tent. There is a lot of privacy between the tent sites because of the trees," notes a camper. Sites include fire rings and picnic tables, with some offering partial shade.
Well-maintained facilities: Lums Pond State Park gets high marks for cleanliness. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," writes one reviewer. The park maintains year-round operations with recently renovated facilities.
Free amenities: Several parks offer unexpected free services. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," explains a visitor to Trap Pond State Park. Many parks also offer educational programs and nature centers without additional fees.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Redden State Forest Campground has changed its policies. "This is no longer a first come, first served campground. Reservations must be made in advance at bookyoursite.com, only 3 days consecutive allowed," advises a camper. Most state parks require reservations, especially during peak seasons.
Site limitations: Vehicle size restrictions apply at some locations. "Travel trailers, pull behinds, motorhomes are not allowed. Tents, cars, overlander SUVs, minivans and small Class B camper vans are allowed. Nothing over 25 ft allowed," warns a Redden State Forest camper. Call ahead to confirm your equipment meets requirements.
Seasonal factors: Bugs can be prevalent in summer months. "Sandy soil and plenty of flying bugs," notes a visitor to Killens Pond. Spring and fall typically offer more comfortable camping conditions with fewer insects and moderate temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Martinak State Park Campground offers multiple play areas. "They have lots of easily walked trails. Bath houses are kept clean. They have quite a few playgrounds throughout the park, which was a major plus for us," shares a parent. The park's water activities provide additional entertainment options for various ages.
Cabin options for easier camping: Yurt camping near Harrington provides comfort for families not ready for tent camping. "We had a great time with our 3 little ones. They have lots of easily walked trails," reports a family at Martinak State Park. Cabins and yurts typically include beds, electricity, and sometimes air conditioning.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers enhance family camping trips. "If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball)," recommends a visitor to Tuckahoe State Park Campground. Many parks offer junior ranger programs and scheduled activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Be aware of utility placement at some parks. "Lums Pond is one of my least favorite places to camp! The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," cautions an RVer. Always check site details when booking.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven grounds. "Sites are fairly spacious and have an interesting semi-circle pull through layout so backing in not required. They are not level and have a sandy base so it took a bit of work to finally get the rig level, even with auto-levelers," notes a camper at Trap Pond.
Campground layout considerations: Choose sites carefully based on your needs. "The tent site was big with lots of choice locations for your tent. There is a lot of privacy between the tent sites because of the trees," reports a Cape Henlopen visitor. Site maps don't always indicate important details about shade, privacy, or proximity to facilities.
