Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area spans 3,000 acres of rolling terrain in Cecil County, with elevations ranging from 220 to 450 feet above sea level. Located approximately 12 miles from Port Deposit, the management area consists of mixed hardwood forests interspersed with open fields. Winters can be cold with occasional snow, while summers typically reach high temperatures in the 80s with moderate humidity.
What to do
Trail riding experiences: Equestrians staying at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area can access an extensive network of marked trails. As one camper noted, "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website."
Fishing opportunities: Several water bodies near Port Deposit offer fishing. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, which is within an hour's drive, one visitor mentioned, "We spent most of our time there. They have a large pond that you can rent paddle boats and small v-bottom boats! We did enjoy the paddle boats and saw a few cranes! They offer fishing at the pond which was also enjoyable!"
Hiking trails: The region provides numerous hiking options for non-equestrians. At French Creek State Park Campground, a camper shared, "We loved our stay at this park, and plan to return. We tented in loop D… There is lots of hiking, the lake is beautiful... We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely!"
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers appreciate the ample space at equestrian camping sites near Port Deposit. At Blackbird State Forest Campground, one reviewer wrote, "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return! No running water - only port a potties but they were clean."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the region maintain their amenities well. A visitor to Tuckahoe State Park Campground noted, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
Natural setting: The wooded environment creates a sense of seclusion. One camper at Tuckahoe State Park described, "Nice pads, even with rain none were flooded. The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors. The state park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Hibernia County Park, a camper explained, "A nice primitive campground - good for a quick trip away. The campground is a county run one that works on a first come first serve basis, which is fine if there are others close by."
Limited amenities: Some campgrounds offer basic facilities only. A Blackbird State Forest visitor stated, "This is a good free state forest with maybe 10 (or less) designated tent-camping sites, and designated areas for deer hunting. Each campsite features a picnic table or two, and a fire pit, plus one bundle of firewood."
Weather considerations: The region can experience unpredictable weather patterns. When camping at French Creek State Park, one visitor reported, "It held up well during an evening thunderstorm, but for a small seam leak near the door."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly activities: Choose campgrounds with recreational options for children. A visitor to Tuckahoe State Park shared, "I love this campground! Great hiking, biking, kayaking and fishing. They have a really nice playground for kids (which is separate from the campground)."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping or during less favorable weather, cabins provide comfort. At French Creek State Park, "There are also several cottages, cabins and yurts available as well."
Check bathroom accessibility: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A camper at Lums Pond State Park observed, "Some engineering genius put the bath houses furthest from the people that need them most. Tent campers... keep your shoes handy, it's a hike."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds near Port Deposit have uneven terrain. A camper at Starlite Camping Resort mentioned, "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed."
Limited hookups: Full hookup sites can be scarce in the region. At Hibernia County Park, a camper noted, "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."
Space constraints: Some sites may be tight for larger rigs. A Tuckahoe State Park visitor warned, "We took out 1st trip to Tuckahoe over the 4th of July weekend. We really liked the park, but beware, the sites can be small! I watched people with 25+ footers struggle to back into the sites."
