Susquehanna State Park Campground sits along the Susquehanna River at approximately 250 feet of elevation, offering camping options in the forests of northeastern Maryland. The campground's terrain features mature hardwood forests with sites positioned on relatively level ground throughout the Beechnut and Acorn loops. Camping seasons run from late March through October, with most sites filling quickly during summer weekends.
What to do
Hiking diversity: Tuckahoe State Park Campground offers 20 miles of varied trails open for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The campground connects to multiple trail systems for both casual strolls and longer excursions. "We hiked back to the campground from here, which was a nice easy-to-moderate trail. The beginning was pretty rough for me, since I was wearing my infant son while navigating an uphill trail, but it quickly evened out," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: The region offers multiple fishing spots across several parks, with different regulations at each location. "We spent a few hours fishing in the pond," mentioned one Susquehanna visitor, while another camper at Tuckahoe noted access to "the Tuckahoe River for fishing and kayaking. No swimming."
Water activities: Most parks in the area have water access with restrictions on swimming. Codorus State Park has a large lake with boat rentals and specific rules. "The lake is large and fun to explore in the boat. We didn't actually get to swim because there were signs everywhere saying no swimming, but we dipped our legs in," explains one visitor who rented a pontoon boat.
Local attractions: Camp Meade RV Park provides secure military base accommodations for exploring nearby sites. "Was great not to have to really worry about anything because you are securely on post. I forgot all about revielle 🤣. They reminded me," notes a visitor who used the park as a base for regional exploration.
What campers like
Privacy options: Sites with more seclusion are available but require advance planning. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "the sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun." Another reviewer highlighted how "sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level."
Clean facilities: Most parks maintain well-kept bathrooms despite heavy usage. "The bathhouse is immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," mentions one visitor to Lums Pond, while another noted that "the bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms."
Kid-friendly amenities: Family accommodations vary across sites, with Merry Meadows Recreation Farm offering multiple playground options. "The pool through RV sites are in the centerfield and kind of exposed to the elements but you are right across from the pool and right across from an amazing playground," notes a regular visitor who recommends the campground for families.
Glamping upgrades: Luxury camping near Middle River provides high-end accommodations at several parks. "We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa. There was also a front porch with picnic table and fire pit," reports a Merry Meadows visitor describing their glamping experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most parks fill quickly during peak seasons. At Cherry Hill Park, visitors recommend booking well ahead: "We had a premium site for seven nights. The site was perfectly level with a fire ring, grill, picnic table and table with three chairs."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences variable conditions, particularly during spring and fall. "We camped here for a somewhat rainy Memorial Day weekend. Despite the rain, we enjoyed ourselves and even did a hike," mentions a Susquehanna visitor, while another camper at Tuckahoe noted "We lost power during a rain storm."
Site selection caution: Not all sites offer equal amenities or space. "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," warns one camper who had issues with their campsite size and fire pit placement.
Cash requirements: Some parks have specific payment policies. At Merry Meadows, "One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it's not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When glamping close to Middle River, Maryland with kids, select sites strategically near play areas. At Susquehanna, "The playground was fantastic, though, it was not shaded. It is also in the middle of the Acorn and Beechnut loop. This is great if you want to be away from the playground, as you can book one of the sites further off and not have kids running about."
Entertainment options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville specializes in kid-focused activities. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" shares one family, while another notes "We do go fishing while we are here and my daughter loves this place."
Biking conditions: Consider bringing bikes for kids at sites with gentle terrain. At Susquehanna, "The camp road was minimally hilly and would be safe and easy for little kids to ride their bikes, unlike some of the campgrounds that have pretty decent hills."
Bath facilities: When glamping with families, check bathroom proximity to tent sites. At Tuckahoe, "Another reason for 4 stars over 5 - not all of the sites had bath to the bathhouse, and the path that they did have was also very rocky and covered in roots."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have specific size limitations. At Washington DC/Capitol KOA, "If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy."
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before arrival. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," explains a camper at Lums Pond.
Access challenges: Some parks have narrow roads or difficult turns. At Tuckahoe, a visitor noted, "I watched people with 25+ footers struggle to back into the sites. We booked site 21, blind. The web site does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and with were an issue."
Seasonal variations: Facilities may change based on time of year. At Merry Meadows, "They advertise all of their activities, none of which are ever open, including the pool," mentioned one disappointed visitor during the off-season.
