Camping near Port Deposit, Maryland offers both primitive sites and full-service options in the Chesapeake Bay watershed region. The area sits at the northern end of the Bay where the Susquehanna River widens, creating diverse terrain from river valleys to forested hills. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-90°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder conditions between 45-75°F.
What to do
Water recreation at Lums Pond: The 200-acre pond at Lums Pond State Park Campground provides electric-only boating opportunities. "We took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," noted one camper who also explored the equestrian trail around the pond.
Historic sites exploration: Within 30 minutes of Port Deposit, visitors can explore multiple historical attractions. "There is a little fishing pond there, which my husband and daughter enjoyed. We hiked back to the campground from here, which was a nice easy-to-moderate trail," shared a camper at Susquehanna State Park about discovering the park's historic area.
Mini golf and arcade games: Family entertainment options abound at Tucquan Park Family Campground, where traditional camping activities mix with recreation. "They had a lot of events that people participated in like candy bar and regular bingo, corn hole and horse shoe tournaments and a dj," reported a visitor who enjoyed the social atmosphere.
Horseback riding trails: Some parks in the region feature designated equestrian paths. "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," shared a Lums Pond visitor about the trail system available for both hikers and those bringing horses.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campground bathhouses receive regular attention at the better campgrounds. At Susquehanna State Park Campground, "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated," according to one satisfied visitor describing the facilities.
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate separation between sites. "The sites were a little close together but still plenty of room. The pool and playground were very clean and well taken care of," noted a Tucquan Park camper about site spacing and amenities.
Kid-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and recreation areas keep younger campers entertained. At Philadelphia-West Chester KOA, "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground. There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages. They also have pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool."
Quiet camping environment: Despite proximity to urban areas, many sites maintain a peaceful atmosphere. "We were there on a busy weekend in mid-september, and there were limited sites available. It was quiet and our neighbors were respectful of the quiet hours and our space," reported a French Creek State Park visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. At French Creek State Park Campground, "We were able to book our sites online which was also a nice feature. The website is very easy to use and you can also call a phone number and they can help you book your stay at any State Park."
Site selection considerations: Sites vary widely in size, level ground, and privacy. "Not all of the sites had a path to the bathhouse, and the path that they did have was also very rocky and covered in roots," one Susquehanna camper noted about accessibility challenges.
Seasonal operations: Operating schedules vary by location. Susquehanna runs from March through October, while Lums Pond remains open year-round. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great!" reported a winter visitor to French Creek, noting the off-season benefits.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas may experience water issues after rain. A camper at Circle M noted, "We first had a 2 point site near the river, but when it rains the sites get flooded with runoff from the campground. We moved to a full hookup on the Delaware section."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity planning: When booking with children, consider distance to play areas. "We stayed in site 2 of the Beechnut Loop. I had chosen this site, based on two factors: 1. It was available and 2. It was close to the playground. Unfortunately, it was most likely available because it was overrun with roots and rocks (no pad for the tent)- and you also couldn't see the playground from the site," advised a Susquehanna visitor.
Educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led activities for children. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville, "This park is all for the kids. 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."
Swimming options: Pools provide welcome relief in summer heat. "The pool is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," noted a Jellystone visitor about water recreation options beyond natural bodies of water.
Primitive camping with kids: Some families succeed with basic sites. "We stayed in the primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free," reported a Tucquan Park visitor about their woodland experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Country Acres Campground, "Pull-Thru site will all hookups in good working order. Site felt spacious with a nice grass strip," according to a new RV owner who found the arrangement beginner-friendly.
Big rig navigation: Maneuvering larger vehicles requires planning. "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," warned a Philadelphia-West Chester KOA visitor.
Level site selection: Choosing appropriately level ground saves setup time. "Our site was perfectly level and had a large gravel patio area and a large shade tree behind us. The site was plenty long for our 45' RV and tow car," noted one camper about their Old Mill Stream experience.
Full hook-up availability: Premium sites with complete utilities are limited at some parks. "There are only 4 50 amp spots, luckily we secured one. No sewer hookup, but there is a dump station in the seasonal/permanent section," explained a Woodlands Camping Resort visitor about the limited full-service options.
