Tent camping options near Yorklyn, Delaware extend beyond the established campgrounds into several nearby parks offering varied terrain and seasonal availability. The region sits within the Piedmont Plateau with elevations averaging 200-400 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping environments from riverside spots to wooded hills. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall provide cooler camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking at Ridley Creek State Park: The park features well-marked trails suitable for day hikes from tent camping locations. "Easy hike. We found a lot of really unique sites around the park. Will keep going back," notes one visitor, highlighting the accessibility for casual hikers and families. Trail distances range from 0.5 to 2.5 miles with minimal elevation change.
Fishing at Hibernia County Park: The children's pond provides a dedicated fishing area for younger campers. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too," shares one camper, pointing out the variety of fishing spots. Catch-and-release fishing is common, with bass and panfish being frequent catches.
Bird watching at Fort Washington State Park: The park's observation deck provides excellent raptor viewing during spring and fall migrations. "Great historical park along Washington's route to Valley Forge...Come for Militia Hill, hawk watching, cross country ski, or disc golf, and the trails along the Wissahickon Creek," notes one visitor. Peak migration periods occur April-May and September-October.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Blackbird State Forest offers spacious, separated camping areas. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return," reports one camper. Sites average 40-50 feet apart, providing natural buffer zones between neighboring campers.
Water access: Multiple campgrounds offer lake or creek access for cooling off during summer months. "The water was clear and beautiful and I absolutely loved it," shares a visitor at Ridley Creek State Park. Water temperatures in summer range 68-75°F, with most access points featuring gradual entry suitable for wading.
Family-friendly layouts: Several campgrounds organize sites in loops, creating natural community spaces. "This campground has 2 small loops, the Lake Loop and the Fiddler's Loop. Lake loop is the bigger of the two," explains a Hibernia visitor, describing how the layout affects the camping experience. Loop arrangements typically include 8-12 sites per loop with central gathering areas.
What you should know
Site surfaces vary significantly: Tent pad materials differ across campgrounds, affecting comfort and drainage. "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," notes a visitor to Hibernia County Park. Some sites feature clay soils that can become muddy after rain, while others have stone dust or gravel foundations.
Limited water availability: Many tent camping areas in the region have restricted water access. "There is one spigot at the bathroom, which brings me to…There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop," explains a Hibernia County Park reviewer, detailing the practical water situation. Campers should plan to bring 1-2 gallons of water per person per day.
Reservation requirements: Green Lane Park and other parks require advance booking during peak seasons. "The campgrounds are clean but the sites are way too close together and there is not any privacy," mentions one camper about Green Lane. Reservations typically open 3-6 months in advance, with weekend spots filling quickly during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas within walking distance of tent sites. "Great playground," notes a camper at Hibernia County Park, providing a simple activity option for younger campers. Most playgrounds are suitable for ages 3-12 and located within 5-10 minute walks from camping areas.
Child-friendly fishing opportunities: Susquehannock State Park and nearby areas offer dedicated fishing areas for beginners. "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River," shares one visitor, identifying locations where children can safely approach water. These areas typically feature stable banks and relatively shallow water for safer fishing experiences.
Nature exploration programs: Several parks offer weekend nature programs during summer months. "If you are trying to explore the wonder and splendor of Valley Forge and have stumbled across Fort Washington SP enroute, then what a little gem you have discovered," mentions a visitor at Fort Washington State Park. Programs typically run 30-60 minutes and cover topics from local wildlife to plant identification.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most tent camping areas near Yorklyn have few or no RV hookups. "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," advises a Hibernia County Park visitor. Those with small trailers or pop-ups should arrive with fully charged batteries and filled water tanks.
Site size considerations: Many campgrounds have tent-focused sites unsuitable for larger RVs. "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there," cautions one Hibernia County Park camper about the Lake Loop. However, they note, "As I said in the first paragraph, we mostly camp in a 28ft 5th wheel and though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18." RVs over 25 feet should carefully research site dimensions before booking.
