Best Campgrounds near Elkton, MD

Camping options in the Elkton, Maryland area range from full-service campgrounds to primitive sites, with several facilities located within a 30-minute drive. Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers tent and RV camping directly in Elkton, while Woodlands Camping Resort provides cabin accommodations nearby. Most developed campgrounds in the region feature electric hookups and water access, though tent-only areas are available at several parks. The proximity to both Delaware and Pennsylvania expands camping possibilities, with Lums Pond State Park just across the state line offering year-round access.

Most campgrounds in the Elkton region remain open year-round, though specific amenities may be limited during winter months. Several locations require advance reservations, particularly during summer weekends when facilities reach capacity. "Sites are huge and most are level. We stay here a few times throughout the year and have never been disappointed with the campground," noted one camper about Lums Pond State Park. Road access throughout the region is generally good, with paved entrances to major campgrounds suitable for larger RVs. Cecil County Permaculture represents a smaller, more rustic option with just two available sites, while established state parks typically offer more extensive facilities including showers, sanitary dumps, and trash service.

The camping experience near Elkton benefits from the region's waterways, with several campgrounds situated near ponds, rivers, or lakes. Facilities at Lums Pond State Park receive consistently positive reviews for their spacious sites and clean bathhouses. One visitor described the campground as having "plenty to do: trails for biking and hiking, rentals (canoes, kayaks, paddle boats), Go Ape zip lines, playgrounds, fishing piers, and more." Elk Neck State Park, located in nearby North East, offers additional water-oriented camping with boat-in access. Campers seeking more secluded experiences might prefer the smaller facilities at Cecil County Permaculture, which earned a perfect 5-star rating despite having fewer amenities. The region's proximity to urban areas makes it suitable for weekend trips, with most campgrounds located within an hour's drive of Wilmington, Delaware and Philadelphia.

Best Camping Sites Near Elkton, Maryland (95)

    1. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    "The camp loop is a nice walk but there are also trails. They were pretty muddy when we were there. Site 35 was quite spacious as were many of them."

    2. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    4. Woodlands Camping Resort

    3 Reviews
    White Hall, MD
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 398-4414

    "Ran through this camp area in Elkton! Beautiful place!"

    5. Susquehanna State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Edgewood, MD
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 557-7994

    $21 - $50 / night

    "The campsites are separated more widely than many other parks in Maryland (Cunningham Falls, Ft. Frederick, Pt. Lookout), and are quite secluded in comparison."

    "I was a walk-up with no reservation and since it was a weekday the ranger gave me a great rundown of the best spots in the camp and let me drive through to check them out before going back with my decision"

    6. Cecil County Permaculture

    1 Review
    North East, MD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (443) 945-5492

    $10 - $16 / night

    "Has outhouse, fire pit, running water on side of house near outhouse. An is a wonderful person. Good reception with T-Mobile!"

    7. Philadelphia-West Chester KOA

    17 Reviews
    Downingtown, PA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 486-0447

    $59 - $86 / night

    "The campground is located in a beautiful part of the Pennsylvania countryside with rolling hills which meant the roads getting there are narrow and windy."

    "Everything was within close walking distance and the staff were extremely helpful. Pool and bathrooms were very clean."

    8. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park at Quarryville

    19 Reviews
    Quarryville, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 610-4505

    "We stayed here in November with beautiful weather which meant the large farm behind the campground was spraying manure over their fields. We could smell it."

    "The site was covered and it was cool around 4:30pm when the sun went behind the trees. It didn’t look like all sites had that much cover so be careful."

    9. Blackbird State Forest Campground - CLOSED TIL FURTHER NOTICE

    6 Reviews
    Townsend, DE
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 653-6505

    $25 / night

    "The only thing about this site specifically is the trail was close by so you’d occasionally see people walking by but not enough that it didn’t still feel secluded."

    "I was only one in the forest ATM but saw some hikers occasionally throughout the day walking by."

    10. French Creek State Park Campground

    80 Reviews
    Geigertown, PA
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (610) 582-9680

    $20 - $75 / night

    "We were looking for someplace close to the city but away from the hustle and bustle of our city life, this was the perfect little steal-away; relatively close by, great car camping spots, nice easy hikes"

    "If you want starlink, stay toward the entrance of the loop for a good view of the sky. If you want to be away from everyone and don't need a site that has good accessibility, stay in C27."

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Recent Reviews near Elkton, MD

735 Reviews of 95 Elkton Campgrounds


  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Dog owners read!

    There’s four loops. All connected A through D. We just needed a place to park and sleep so I got D011. Got there at 11pm and the D loop says no pets allowed. Not sure why when they are at every other loop but we had no where else to go and the area is pretty far off from anywhere else so the ol lab stayed in the camper. The bathrooms are tile and really nice with showers. And it was really quiet and chilly so a nice fall camp site. Just know ahead of time if you’re a dog owner!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Fort Washington State Park Campground

    Where George Washington Would've Ditched His Tent PPE

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with new photos, updated weathered campers’ tales and a quick snapshot of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS:

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Rustic group camping nestled in nearly 500 acres of lush forest that is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike; (2) Potable water and non-flush restrooms available year-round, because even Revolutionary War re-enactors need coffee breaks; (3) Over 3.5 miles of trails leading to Hawk Watch observation decks, which birders will marvel at and the rest of us will simply appreciate the vista; (4) Group tenting area that fits 20 to 100 people that is ideal for clans, clubs or covert woodland think tanks; and (5) Convenient to Philly (25 min), great for escaping crowds while still being able to Uber for donuts.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No RV or tent-by-the-river solo camping: group-only policy means solo adventurers need to carpool or carry heavy guilt; (2) Bathrooms are primitive and non-flush, so BYOTP as it’s campground chic here, not hotel lobby convenient; (3) Carry-in / carry-out trash policy means becoming one with your garbage until civilization or squirrels show up; (4) Cell service is ‘iffy’ at best, depending on how hard the woods are trying to keep you offline; and (5) No campfire tales about campers as noise is limited and so are late-night s'mores sessions.

    Happy Camping!

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Great place to stay!

    This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff. Our site was asphalt, that was a treat, tho not all of them were...

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Alverthorpe Private Park

    Urban Camping Bliss

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with some refreshed insight, additional photos and, well, because once wasn’t enough, here’s a quick reel of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Hidden slice of suburban woodland tucked just outside Philly that is serene enough to reset your social media–addled brain; (2) Flat, open terrain scattered with tall shade trees makes pitching your tent feel practically pastoral; (3) Surprisingly solid cell signal (T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T all wave hello), which is rare in inner-density camping and handy for emergency pizza delivery orders; (4) Short walk to a quaint lake and four-sided chimney for marshmallow toasting that offers low-key charm with built-in ambiance; and (5) Tons of shade completely shroud the entire campground area, so no need to bring those pesky shelters for added coverage. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) No restroom drama on the way in, but once you’re past the control building, basic camping reality bites; (2) Ancient shelter and group pavilion are charming in a ‘needs new plumbing’ sort of way; (3) Reaching the camping area involves navigating uneven steps as you won’t be able to drive to your actual campsite, which is great for adventure, but bad for sprained ankles; (4) Feels like a weekend-only myth where the park closes on holidays and deals in ‘control building hours’; and (5) This place is known to be full of litter and in dire need of some ground maintenance, so you might just want to bring an extra garbage bag and a rake to help out.

    Happy Camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

  • Peyton S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    French Creek State Park Campground

    Wonderful, Easy, Quick trip from Philly

    It’s about an hour away from Philadelphia. We tent camped in loop B. The site was wonderful. Just know it is a gravel site, not grass. The fire pit has a grill attachment and wood was easy to find. Water and bathrooms were close. We hiked around the lake and there were plenty of trails and even rentable kayaks and paddle boards! Would definitely recommend if looking for a quick overnight stay outside of the city.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.


Guide to Elkton

Camping near Elkton, Maryland, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From spacious campgrounds to scenic trails, there's something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at French Creek State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The state park has numerous hiking and biking opportunities," making it a great spot for outdoor adventures.
  • Fishing: Head to Tuckahoe State Park Campground for some fishing. A camper shared, "We saw beautiful aquatic plants, many birds, and a gazillion turtles," highlighting the park's rich wildlife.
  • Kayaking: At Lums Pond State Park Campground, you can enjoy kayaking. One reviewer noted, "The campground is peaceful and has great bath houses," perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Codorus State Park Campground. A visitor said, "Spacious, beautiful, clean, quiet, easy, and lots to do and see."
  • Clean Facilities: Many enjoy the well-maintained bathrooms at Elk Neck State Park Campground. One camper remarked, "The bathrooms are immaculate," which is a big plus for families.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Campgrounds like French Creek State Park Campground allow pets, making it easier for families to bring their furry friends along. A reviewer mentioned, "Very spacious sites. The paved parking spot was tight but a short walk down to the spacious fire pit picnic table area."

What you should know:

  • Alcohol Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Tuckahoe State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol. A camper noted, "It's a good place to do that," emphasizing the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busy weekends at places like Susquehanna State Park Campground. One visitor said, "The sites are well kept and the tent pads are in great shape," but noted that it can get crowded.
  • Limited Amenities: Campgrounds such as Killens Pond State Park Campground may have fewer amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "There is one bathhouse... which was dirty and outdated," so be prepared for some rustic conditions.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Elk Neck State Park Campground, which has great trails and activities. A family shared, "We loved it here and will definitely be back."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to plan some fun activities. One camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground said, "We went on a hike to check out the lighthouse," which can be a great family outing.
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A visitor at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "There’s a lot to do in the area," so having snacks can keep everyone energized.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the right hookups. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Hershey noted, "I made a reservation months in advance, but it only guaranteed me a site."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: RVers love the convenience of nearby attractions. One camper at French Creek State Park Campground said, "It's a great place to camp and enjoy downtime!"
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: If you're camping on weekends, expect a busy atmosphere. A visitor at Susquehanna State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are fairly small and some of them are right on top of each other," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Elkton, Maryland, offers a mix of fun activities and beautiful scenery. Whether you're with family or friends, there's plenty to enjoy in this outdoor paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tent camping available near Elkton, MD?

Yes, tent camping is readily available near Elkton, MD. Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area offers tent camping options with basic amenities including water access and toilets. For those willing to drive a short distance, Tuckahoe State Park Campground on Maryland's Eastern Shore provides excellent tent camping with spacious sites nestled among trees. The park accommodates various camping styles including tent camping in a peaceful, natural setting with access to kayaking on the lake and hiking trails.

What amenities are available at Elk Neck State Park camping area?

Elk Neck State Park Campground offers a comprehensive range of amenities for campers. The park features pet-friendly loops (like the Miles loop), quiet and peaceful campsites, and well-maintained facilities. The campground provides a natural setting with ample privacy between sites. For recreation, visitors can enjoy hiking trails throughout the park and access to water activities. While the campground can get busy with families during summer weekends, weekdays offer a more serene experience. Susquehanna State Park Campground nearby provides an alternative with similar amenities if Elk Neck is fully booked.

What are the best campgrounds near Elkton, MD?

The Elkton area offers several highly-rated campgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. Elk Neck State Park Campground stands out with its peaceful atmosphere, pet-friendly loops, and beautiful natural setting. For those willing to travel slightly farther, Pequea Creek Campground provides a picturesque experience with large, tree-covered sites, access to river tubing, and entertainment like music bingo on Saturday nights. Both locations offer the perfect balance of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making them ideal for weekend getaways from the Elkton area.

How much does it cost to camp at Woodlands Camping Resort in Elkton, MD?

Woodlands Camping Resort in Elkton is known for its beautiful setting, though specific pricing information is limited in recent reviews. Based on comparable campgrounds in the region, you can expect to pay approximately $30-45 per night for tent sites and $45-65 for RV sites with hookups. For those seeking alternatives, French Creek State Park Campground within driving distance offers campsites at state park rates (typically $15-30 for tent sites) with great car camping spots, hiking trails, and a lake. Contact Woodlands directly for current rates and seasonal specials.