Camping near Freeland, Maryland offers campers access to creek-side sites and farm settings along with mountain and lake views. The region sits in the Piedmont Plateau with elevations between 300-800 feet, creating moderate terrain for hiking and camping. Sites near water typically require earlier reservations during peak summer months from June through August, when temperatures average 78-85°F.
What to do
Paddling activities: At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, campers can enjoy lake activities including kayaking and canoeing. According to one visitor, "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina." The 340-acre lake offers multiple launch points near camping areas.
Fishing opportunities: Access to quality fishing spots within walking distance of campsites is common in the region. At Pequea Creek Campground, "campers can enjoy kid-friendly creek access for splashing and floating in Pequea Creek." Site 24 has steps down the levee for easier creek access.
Farm-based activities: Several campgrounds integrate farming experiences with camping. One camper at Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm shared, "If you love farm animals, that is the spot to be. Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn."
Disc golf courses: Multiple parks feature established disc golf courses. One visitor to Gifford Pinchot noted, "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course," while cautioning, "BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Tucquan Park Family Campground receives praise for site spacing, with one camper noting, "The sites were a little close together but still plenty of room. The pool and playground were very clean and well taken care of." Wooded sites typically offer more privacy than open field sites.
Water access: Many campers value sites with direct water access. At Otter Creek Campground, a visitor shared, "The river is only a short walk from the campground which is directly across the street at Otter Creek Picnic Area where there are private and public boat docks."
Cleanliness standards: Bathhouse quality varies significantly between locations. A camper at Codorus State Park remarked, "Nice campground. Very clean facilities. We typically stay in the primitive tent loop which is right on the lake," showing the balance between amenities and natural settings.
Organized activities: Several campgrounds offer scheduled events that enhance the experience. At Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, a visitor mentioned, "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Operating seasons vary throughout the area. Codorus State Park Campground runs from the second Friday in April until November 1. Water levels can fluctuate, with one camper noting, "Unfortunately, with all of the rain we have had here in Pennsylvania this summer the river was brown with mud and tree debris."
Site selection factors: Site conditions vary significantly, affecting comfort and usability. At Muddy Run Rec Park, a camper advised, "We lucked out with a lot that was slightly more secluded on the end of a road, but paid for it with a very sloped lot that made sitting at the picnic table or camp chairs a bit of a struggle."
Utility connections: Water and electric hookup placements can be unpredictable. At Muddy Run Rec Park, a camper cautioned, "Bring 50 ft of hose for water hook up and an extension cord with a converter. The water hook ups are randomly placed, ours was 2 sites away."
Reservation requirements: For specific site types, advance planning is crucial. According to a visitor at Pequea Creek Campground, "We booked late and ended up being given the group camping site because it was all that was left. We had a ton of space and it was more secluded than other sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offers substantial play areas for children. One visitor shared, "The pool area seemed like the place to be. They have upgraded any of the activities such as miniature golf and the pool area looks great."
Water-based activities: Several campgrounds have swimming options that appeal to families. At Gifford Pinchot State Park, a camper noted, "There is no swimming allowed in the lake but there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground."
Family-oriented events: Scheduled activities enhance family camping experiences. A visitor to Artillery Ridge Campground shared, "Fun filled weekend of activities for the whole family. Close to historic Gettysburg battleground. Fantastic horse rescue on the campground."
Nature exploration: Many families appreciate sites with natural features to explore. A camper at Pequea Creek Campground mentioned, "We really enjoyed this campground. We booked late and ended up being given the group camping site because it was all that was left. There were activities for the kids, a playground, access to some nice walks."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds have variable terrain that affects RV setup. At Artillery Ridge Campground, a camper reported, "Nice pull through site for out 21ft popup. Site was pretty level. Pool, mini golf and live music were great."
Hookup logistics: RVers should prepare for potential challenges with utility connections. At Muddy Run Rec Park, a visitor warned, "Also just for anyone planning a trip, make sure you have a long hose for water hookup. Water pumps were spaced pretty far and we needed at least a 100 ft hose to reach."
Dump station access: Several campgrounds offer different waste disposal options. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, one RVer explained, "We chose a non-sewage site, the loop is quiet and large and they have the honey wagon 3x a week (free sewage dump service)."
Seasonal RV sites: Some campgrounds have permanent or seasonal residents. A visitor to Otter Creek Campground mentioned, "This campground is perfect for all kinds of people from family, campers, boaters, fishers, someone who is seeking rest and relaxation, peace and quiet, adventure seekers on the river."
