Camping options near Wilmington, Delaware feature mostly flat terrain in the Mid-Atlantic region, where summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity. The camping season typically runs April through October, with peak rainfall in July and August that can create muddy conditions at less-developed sites. Most campgrounds sit within 45 minutes of downtown Wilmington, offering varying levels of woodland cover and water access.
What to do
Kayaking on 200-acre pond: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, the water recreation extends beyond basic boating. One visitor noted, "We spent Saturday afternoon fishing but not catching anything at Scott's Run. It's a beautiful location and it was still a fun way to spend the day with the kids away from the site."
Horseback riding near campsites: For equestrians looking for glamping close to Wilmington, Delaware, French Creek State Park features riding trails adjacent to camping areas. According to a ranger review, "There is also a frisbee golf course in the woods to make it even more interesting and competitive. The trees definitely make it harder!"
Off-leash dog park access: Pet owners can enjoy Hibernia County Park with its pet-friendly policies. A visitor shared, "Quiet. Occasional planned activities. Rented pavilions for reunions, birthdays, seasonal gatherings, etc." The park provides dedicated spaces for dogs to run freely between camping sessions.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at certain locations. A review of French Creek State Park Campground states, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers."
Clean, modern facilities: The bathroom amenities receive consistent praise. A Lums Pond visitor reported, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
Well-maintained grounds: The overall upkeep stands out at many locations offering luxury glamping near Wilmington, DE. One camper at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA shared, "The sites, particularly those on the Brandywine River, have amazing views. They are close enough for you to camp with a group, but most also have a small fence between each site to clearly delineate between the sites."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular sites book quickly, especially during peak season. One regular visitor to Lums Pond noted, "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations. Book early because it fills up fast!"
Water quality varies: At some campgrounds, water systems can have issues. A visitor to Parvin State Park Campground reported, "Bathrooms were clean but most of the faucets on the sinks were broken. The water has a very high iron content. I couldn't even use it for tooth brushing."
Weekend noise levels: The atmosphere changes significantly on weekends versus weekdays. A camper at Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA observed, "We stayed here in our RV. It was the closest campground to Philly so we called a Lyft to get us into the city. The staff was super friendly and helpful."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated kid activities: Family-focused options provide structured entertainment. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville, a parent shared, "This will be our second year going. So much to do for the kids. Our first year we did a birthday package where they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter."
Look for playgrounds near sites: Camping areas with play equipment reduce the need to travel within larger parks. A visitor to Hibernia County Park mentioned, "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground."
Consider tent sites near bathroom facilities: When camping with children, proximity to restrooms matters. One Parvin State Park camper advised, "We loved the lake campground. My kids are age 3-12. There's running water available, porta potties are very clean and don't smell and are lit with a street lamp."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have specific RV limitations. An RVer at Old Cedar Campground noted, "We spent a few weeks here, waiting for school to end so we could take our 6 year old granddaughter back to our home in Florida. The wonderful part was having them visit us - for $8 per day the grandchildren were able to play miniature golf."
Bring extra water hoses: Hookup locations can require longer connections than standard. As one camper reported, "The water hookups are shared every other site. I was lucky my 75' hose barely reached the distance needed. Be sure to bring extra hoses."
Inquire about dump station access: Not all sites provide dump facilities. A visitor to Hibernia County Park cautioned, "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."
