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Best Campgrounds near Newark, DE

728 Reviews

Camping options near Newark, Delaware range from established state parks to private campgrounds within a short drive of the city. Lums Pond State Park Campground, located in Bear just 7 miles south of Newark, offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and yurt accommodations. Elk Neck State Park Campground in North East, Maryland, approximately 20 miles southwest, provides cabin camping along with tent and RV sites. The region includes several KOA locations like Philadelphia-West Chester KOA in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, which features cabin rentals alongside traditional camping options.

Access to campgrounds in the Newark area varies with the seasons, though many remain open year-round. Most established campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer weekends when sites fill quickly. Lums Pond State Park offers full hookup sites with electric, water, and sewer connections, making it popular for RV campers. The relatively flat terrain throughout the region makes most campgrounds accessible without specialized vehicles or equipment. Visitors should be aware that some campgrounds have specific pet policies, with designated pet-friendly loops at certain parks. A camper at Elk Neck State Park noted, "The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. Site 166 offered a wooded path directly back to the nearby bathhouse, which was otherwise inconspicuous from my site."

Campers consistently mention the spacious sites and natural settings as highlights of the Newark area camping experience. Lums Pond State Park receives praise for its well-maintained facilities and large, level sites. According to one visitor, "This State park campground is very well maintained. The staff is friendly. Quiet, clean area and had no problem navigating in our 40' 5th wheel." Many campgrounds in the region feature water access, with Lums Pond offering fishing and boating opportunities. Elk Neck State Park provides hiking trails with scenic water views, though reviews mention trails can become muddy after rain. Several developed campgrounds in the area include amenities like clean bathhouses, laundry facilities, and camp stores, though amenities vary by location. Proximity to Philadelphia and other attractions makes these campgrounds convenient bases for exploring the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Newark, Delaware (103)

    1. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    9 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
    18 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. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    17 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."

    4. Susquehanna State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Darlington, MD
    22 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"

    5. Woodlands Camping Resort

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

    "It’s a clean, well kept space, completely surrounded by state forest, very close to shore access along the rivers/bay, hiking/biking trails right out of the campground."

    6. Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area

    2 Reviews
    Newark, MD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 398-1246

    7. Jellystone Park™ Quarryville

    19 Reviews
    Quarryville, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 610-4505

    "We stayed here in November with beautiful weather which meant the large farm behind the campground was spraying manure over their fields. We could smell it."

    "The site was covered and it was cool around 4:30pm when the sun went behind the trees. It didn’t look like all sites had that much cover so be careful."

    8. French Creek State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "If you want starlink, stay toward the entrance of the loop for a good view of the sky. If you want to be away from everyone and don't need a site that has good accessibility, stay in C27."

    9. Cecil County Permaculture

    1 Review
    North East, MD
    8 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!"

    10. Delaware Motel and RV Park

    2 Reviews
    New Castle, DE
    8 miles
    +1 (302) 328-3114
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Recent Reviews near Newark, DE

728 Reviews of 103 Newark Campgrounds

  • Nancy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 3, 2026

    Lums Pond State Park Campground

    Clean, big-rig friendly, large sites.

    Overall, this is a nice, small (about 65 sites) state park with plenty of recreational opportunities inside the park. There is nice separation between sites so you don’t feel like you are on top of your neighbor. Tall trees are scattered about which provide shade at some sites but overall, the park is pretty open. Roads getting to the park are easy to navigate with any size RV. Within the park, roads are paved and free of potholes and there are no low hanging branches. Since the roads are one-way they are not very wide so backing in big-rigs can be a little tight and you might have to run over the grass. 

    All RV sites are full hook-up and there is a separate area for tents and there is one canvas yurt for rent. The tent sites are nice in that they are tucked along the wood line slightly away from RVs with more privacy and shade. The only downside is that they are pretty far away from the centrally located bathroom and showers. The bathroom has separate rooms for showers which is nice and private. They were tended to daily and very clean. Also, located in the center of the campground is a playground, camp store and laundry. The dumpsters and recycle bins are located in a separate area on the way out of the campground and were frequently full and overflowing. Campsites are paved and some have wide enough that the patio is paved but others have a narrow pad for the RV and gravel patio. We discovered that most sites are level but a few are not (like 22 and 24). The campground is very clean and camp hosts were diligent about picking up trash and cleaning out fire pits every day. 

    Across the pond (north of the campground) is where most of the amenities are located such as concessions, ball fields, horseshoe pits, disk golf, and more. For those wanting to fish there is a pier in the campground and a self-serve vending machine with bait in it. There are additional fishing piers located in other parts of the park and there are boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards for rent. We stopped in at the Nature Center but it was a bust– just a few taxidermy specimens and not much information. One of the most popular areas of the park is Go Ape which is a ropes/zip line course through the canopy (which does require admission fee). There are nice trails that leave right from the campground– some 17 miles in all. There is a boat launch about a quarter mile from the campground entrance which is suitable for trailerable boats and paddle craft but there are no docks so you can’t leave your boat tied up there. There is an off-leash dog area but it is located far from the campground so it’s best to drive.

  • Matt S.
    Jun. 1, 2026

    Bay Shore Campground

    What stands out about this campground? The view!

    We spent a week at Bay Shore Campground to explore Rock Hall, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. What stands out about this campground? The view! 

    For me, this is a 4-star campground because of the view and nice staff, but not 5-stars because of the sloped site packed in with the neighbors and no sewer connection. 

    THINGS I LIKED:

    — Great view from our site of the Chesapeake Bay— especially for sunset each evening

    — Friendly staff

    — Nearby Rock Hall, Chestertown, and Eastern Neck Island Wildlife Refuge

    — They offered a promo to pay for 6 nights, and the 7th was free 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH:

    — Our site(Site B) had an amazing view of Chesapeake Bay, but the slope made it difficult to get even close to level— even with my front jacks fully extended. I had to buy additional leveling blocks from the camp store(at twice the price of Amazon) just so we didn’t feel like walking uphill to walk around our motorhome. I admit, I am spoiled but really appreciate the campgrounds that level their sites. I think it could be done in a few hours with a rented front loader at a couple nights’ cost.

    — Our site(Site B) was tight. The neighbor’s awning was just inches from our motorhome. I understand the need for any business to maximize revenue, but this was unpleasantly close.

    — There are no sewer hookups at the sites. They do have a couple of dump stations for your way out and provide a pump-out service once per week at$40 a pop. They were nice enough to pump me out a second time since I stayed 7 nights. Again, I know I’m spoiled, but a sewer connection is a necessity when you’re staying 8 days. 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    Sure thing, but we’d stay at a different site.

  • BD Funny W.
    May. 27, 2026

    French Creek State Park Campground

    It was beautiful

    The camp site was amazing. Everything is neat and clean and really beautiful place so quiet.

  • MBOL
    May. 3, 2026

    Susquehanna State Park Campground

    Great time with kids

    Nice campground had my 6 and 7 year old. The site was pretty private and had bathrooms close. I would definitely go again.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2026

    Lums Pond State Park Campground

    Spacious, Well Maintained, and Top Notch

    This campground has everything. Conveniently located, short drive to Dover, Wilmington, Annapolis and Baltimore. The sites were very large and spacious. Sites can accommodate any type of trailer or vehicle. Plenty of site hookups, areas for tents. There is a camp store, several washer and dryers. The best private, individual shower booths and even a pond to go fishing in.

  • Stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 12, 2026

    Mill Bridge Village & Camp Resort

    Great olacevto camp in Lancaster County

    We camp here several times thru out the year. Always an enjoyable stay. Staff is very friendly and accommodating.

  • Nicole S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 11, 2026

    Lake-In-Wood Campground

    Sun Retreats Lancaster County - Easter Weekend

    Like always we like to begin our camping season with a Easter Weekend Trip, my husband's family is partial to the Lancaster Area, so we headed there to Sun Retreats Lancaster.  As we drove up I loved the look and location of the campground.  You could see there was a indoor pool setup, arcade, playground, store, ice cream, mini-golf and a huge lake and that was everything we saw from the truck.  We pulled up to a gate and a guy came out of the shed next to it to check us in.

    The campground looked well maintained, the sports were on both sides of the lake and they offered many different options like woods or open, pull through or back up.  We choose a really wooded site.  It was tight getting in but I can't complain I don't drive the truck.  It seemed like there was a fair amount of seasonal sites but they didn't overwhelm the place.  I could see also a lot of cabins there were some shaped like teepees, a frontier cabin, and a caboose.  They had a fair amount of open grass to play and enjoy.  You can bring your own golfcart or they have on site rentals also.

    They had an activity list that would help keep everyone busy, they had a mini golf course that was in great shape, an arcade which was definitely lacking in the game department, I think there was 4 pinball machines, 2 Skee ball, 3 racing games, and the play to you win machine.  The playground x2 were both in great condition with a lot to keep kids playing on.  I can only comment on the indoor pool which at the time was said to be under construction however still open, the water was on the colder side and the hot tube the same temp as the pool, the ceiling had been ripped off so the iron rusting beams were exposed and rust falling down.  The kids still went in the pool unfortunately the air from the open window made them too cold so we didn't stay long.  I am hoping it will be finished because the concept of the indoor-outdoor pool area looks so fun.  

    The staff was extremely helpful and super friendly.  The store was fully stocked with everything you could want.  The bathrooms were all kept so clean and in working order with hot water.  We enjoyed the area we ventured out to see the Choo Choo barn, the green dragon flea market, and kitchen kettle village which are a must if your in the area.  We also choose to hike the Welsh Preserve and Money Rock.  The lake had a path you could walk completely around and you could choose to fish if that's your thing.

    I would definitely return to this campground again, we had 8 sites in total and we all really thought it was a wonderful place and really enjoyed our holiday weekend there.  It was very busy but the staff was present but not overbearing.  People were very respectful and friendly.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 31, 2026

    French Creek State Park Campground

    French Creek State Park

    This is our 3rd time at this park, it is one of our favorites. Well maintained, very quiet. We stay in Loop A (full hookup) pet friendly. Sites are spacious, generally large but they are all back-in sites.

Guide to Newark

Camping options within a 20-mile radius of Newark, Delaware include several state parks with varied amenities and a few private campgrounds that maintain full hookup sites year-round. The area's relatively mild climate allows for extended camping seasons, with most campgrounds open from March through November, though some maintain winter operations. Unlike mountainous camping regions, the terrain around Newark is mostly flat to gently rolling, making most sites accessible without specialized equipment.

What to do

Fishing at multiple lakes: Lums Pond State Park offers year-round fishing opportunities with species including northern pike, bass, and various panfish. According to a visitor at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "This campground is right on a creek with availability to use canoes," making it ideal for water activities.

Hiking through historic areas: Several trail networks connect camping areas to historic sites. A camper at Susquehanna State Park noted, "We hiked over a bridge and stream which was full of fish I could see! Turned around after I got to the Susquehanna itself. The river was running pretty high and fast, pretty cool to see."

Off-season adventures: Winter camping is available at select locations. One camper shared, "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," about their experience at French Creek State Park.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Campground layout is a frequent highlight. A camper at Elk Neck State Park praised, "This campground is very family friendly. We saw so many children running around having a great time! They have fairly many camp sites with an amazing view."

Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. According to one review at Susquehanna State Park, "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated."

Honor system availability: Some campgrounds offer after-hours access to essentials. One camper noted, "They also sell ice and firewood at the campstore AND there is an honor system with it available to you after the campstore hours," making late arrivals easier to manage.

What you should know

Site surface variations: Not all tent sites offer level, root-free surfaces. A camper at French Creek State Park observed, "It was a little bit of a struggle getting on a level and rock-free spot large enough for our tent, but we managed!"

Bathhouse maintenance schedules: Cleanliness can vary by time and season. One reviewer mentioned, "Our specific site was supposed to have a tent pad but there wasn't a spot cleared for our tent and we had to move the heavy picnic table so we weren't putting up our tent on top of the fire ring."

Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Newark area require advance booking, especially during peak season. One camper advised, "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations. Book early because it fills up fast!"

Tips for camping with families

Playground proximity: When booking sites with children, check distance to play areas. A reviewer at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park shared, "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!"

Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds program specific activities for younger campers. "Fun fun and more fun loads of activities for the kids! Breakfast with Yogi!" noted one parent about their experience at Jellystone Park.

Multi-generational options: Consider sites that accommodate various comfort levels. A camper mentioned, "We spent a long weekend with family at Lums Pond State Park Campground and so glad we did," highlighting facilities that work for both tent campers and those needing more amenities.

Tips from RVers

Site approach angles: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger rigs. One RVer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA cautioned, "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. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road."

Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setting up. A camper noted, "About what you expect from a KOA. If you can manage without full hookups, choose the spots down by the creek. The views are the best in the place."

Winter utility access: Some campgrounds maintain water service during colder months. An RVer shared, "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," which can be crucial information for shoulder-season camping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any tent camping sites available near Newark?

Susquehanna State Park Campground offers excellent tent camping with wonderful hiking trails and river views. It's a convenient weekend destination from Newark, though sites can get muddy after rain as some don't have tent pads. Another great option is French Creek State Park Campground, which features nice car camping spots with easy hiking trails and a lake. While you can't swim in the lake, the park does have a public pool available for cooling off during summer months.

Where are the best campgrounds near Newark, Delaware?

Lums Pond State Park Campground is one of the best options directly in Delaware, offering well-maintained facilities with friendly staff and easy navigation for large RVs. For those willing to venture slightly into Maryland, Elk Neck State Park Campground provides peaceful surroundings with pet-friendly options and is particularly quiet during weekdays. Both locations are excellent bases for exploring the region while enjoying natural settings with good amenities.

What amenities do campgrounds with pools offer near Newark?

Pequea Creek Campground doesn't have a traditional pool but offers refreshing water activities with creek access for splashing and floating. The campground features large, tree-covered sites and hosts fun activities like Saturday night music bingo. For a more traditional pool experience, Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area provides basic amenities including water and toilet facilities in a natural setting. Many campers visiting this region during summer months also enjoy nearby river tubing as an alternative to pool swimming.

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