Camping sites near Rockland, Delaware sit within the Atlantic Coastal Plain region at elevations generally below 100 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid subtropical climate conditions with warm summers and mild winters, making camping possible nearly year-round. Most campsites in this region have well-drained soil due to the underlying sedimentary formations, though periods of heavy rain can create temporarily muddy conditions at primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, multiple species populate the pond waters. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish," notes a camper. The fishing pier provides easy access, though some report mixed results depending on water temperature.
Hiking trail exploration: Several well-marked paths accommodate various skill levels. At Ridley Creek State Park, the trails receive consistently positive feedback. One visitor shared, "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back." Most trails are under 5 miles and suitable for families with young children.
Water activities beyond swimming: The regional waterways support multiple recreation types. One visitor at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA mentioned, "The campground is right on a creek with availability to use canoes." Some campgrounds offer boat or kayak rentals directly on-site, while others allow you to bring your own watercraft.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the region offer ample spacing between sites. At French Creek State Park Campground, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other." This sentiment appears across multiple campground reviews, particularly for the state park options.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses stand out in camper feedback. As one visitor to Elk Neck State Park Campground stated, "Nice clean bathhouses. Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface." Most developed campgrounds include showers with hot water, though availability varies seasonally.
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings create privacy at many campsites near Rockland. A visitor to Hibernia County Park shared, "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded." These natural buffers contribute to the camping experience, particularly at the less developed sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Availability constraints affect most campgrounds in peak season. For Hibernia County Park, "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season." Several campgrounds operate seasonally, typically May through October, though some remain open year-round with reduced amenities.
Hookup variations: Utility availability differs significantly between sites. At French Creek State Park, a reviewer clarified, "There are 200 individual sites in four loops, some with full hookups for RVs, some with electric only but mostly primitive sites." Confirm specific site amenities when booking, especially for RVs requiring specific hookups.
Accessibility challenges: Some campgrounds present navigational difficulties for larger vehicles. One camper noted, "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." Research site-specific access limitations before arrival, particularly for equipment over 30 feet.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When camping with children, select sites near play areas. At Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA, a visitor reported, "The staff is friendly. Facilities are clean. Very quiet and peaceful at night with lots of activities for the kids during the day." Most family-oriented campgrounds include playground equipment for various age groups.
Water safety preparations: Many regional campgrounds feature water access requiring supervision. A visitor to Hibernia County Park shared, "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing." Bring appropriate flotation devices and establish clear boundaries near water features.
Weather contingency plans: Have indoor activity options ready. At Lums Pond, "There are also two Yurts and one cabin available for rental as well," providing shelter options during unexpected weather changes. Pack games, books, and craft supplies for rainy periods.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campsites require adjustment for comfortable parking. At French Creek State Park, "Most sites are heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities. The sites are mostly grass, and not very well defined which means the distance between you and your neighbor can vary depending on how you set up camp." Bring leveling blocks and positioning tools.
Water access planning: Limited hookup availability necessitates preparation. One RVer at Hibernia County Park advised, "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank." Arrive with full fresh water tanks when booking primitive sites.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer on-site waste disposal. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home." Plan your stay length according to tank capacities and available dump facilities.
