Susquehanna State Park Campground offers traditional tent and RV sites about 12 miles from Forest Hill, with multiple hiking trails connecting to the Susquehanna River. The park features several recently renovated bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers. Terrain varies from level pads to more rustic sites with exposed roots and rocks, providing options for different camping preferences throughout the spring-to-fall season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Susquehanna River and nearby Deer Creek provide multiple fishing spots for anglers of all skill levels. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, "There is a nice little pond you can fish" and "a small creek to fish in," according to visitors.
Historic exploration: Visit the working grist mill and historic buildings in Susquehanna State Park. One camper noted, "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. The views of the river are really nice from here."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds feature interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels. A visitor at Codorus State Park Campground mentioned, "There is some hiking, not strenuous climbing mountains hiking, mostly easy, and the lake was the biggest attraction for me."
Disc golf courses: Some parks offer complete disc golf courses as an alternative recreation option. A camper noted about Gifford Pinchot State Park, "Both areas have their own 18 hole disc golf course, but I will say: BEWARE of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area."
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at many campgrounds receive high marks for cleanliness and modern amenities. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, a camper praised, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated."
Level sites: Campers consistently note the quality of camping pads and site preparation. One reviewer at Country Acres Campground mentioned, "Pull-Thru site with all hookups in good working order. Site felt spacious with a nice grass strip."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. A camper at Susquehanna State Park Campground shared, "Great place. Have camped here twice now. Took a nice hike out to the susquehanna and spent a few hours fishing in the pond. Lots of wildlife."
Secluded sites: Some campgrounds offer more private camping experiences. One visitor noted, "Site was very shaded, and probably the most secluded feel of anywhere we've camped. Camping pad was nice and level, although the driveway was slightly sloped."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most premium glamping sites near Forest Hill require advance booking. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, visitors recommend, "Book early because it fills up fast!"
Site variations: Not all sites offer the same amenities or level ground. A camper at Susquehanna State Park cautioned, "I'd say about half, maybe more, don't have pads. I didn't get a chance to check out the Acorn Loop, other than a quick drive by."
Seasonal conditions: Weather can impact the camping experience significantly. One visitor mentioned, "We camped here for a somewhat rainy Memorial Day weekend. Despite the rain, we enjoyed ourselves and even did a hike."
Toilet paper supplies: Multiple reviews mention occasional supply issues. A camper reported, "The bathroom was okay but ran out of toilet paper, so be sure to bring your own!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking sites with children, consider proximity to play areas. At Thousand Trails Circle M, a parent advised, "Our kids love all the activities to do!" while another mentioned, "We were down by the river and had a lot of room on our site."
Swimming options: Pools and swimming areas provide important recreation for children. A family at Codorus State Park Campground 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."
Kid-friendly events: Seasonal activities often cater to families with children. At Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, a camper shared, "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."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have quieter areas than others. A parent mentioned, "As I mentioned, we stayed on a busy weekend in September and on Sunday morning, I found that there was no toilet paper in the ladies bathroom."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: RVers should check the positioning of water and electric connections before setting up. One camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground shared, "This place is a gem, even among nice state parks. Beautiful park setting with fantastic site—spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
Dump station access: Many campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations even if full hookups aren't available at every site. A visitor at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground mentioned, "You can bring your own boat (gas allowed) or rent one from their marina."
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend researching site specifications before arrival. A camper at Old Mill Stream Campground noted, "If you reserve online you can see the availability and pick your site which is always a nice feature. They also have pictures of each campsite on the website so you really know what you are getting."
