Campers seeking yurt accommodations near Fort Howard, Maryland have access to several state parks and private campgrounds within a 60-minute drive radius. The area sits at sea level along the Chesapeake Bay, experiencing humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds maintain seasonal operations from April through October, with limited availability during winter months.
What to do
Kayaking on Tuckahoe Creek: Visitors at Tuckahoe State Park Campground can launch kayaks between sites 46 and 48. "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," notes one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer pond and river fishing access for visitors. "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. There are also plenty of areas to stop along the road in the campground, with access to the creek for wading," explains a visitor at Susquehanna State Park.
Nature trails: Most parks feature multi-use trails suitable for various skill levels. At Martinak State Park Campground, "There is a good trail around the campground, not long because it's a small park, but the views of and access to the river are lovely."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the layout of Merry Meadows Recreation Farm sites. "The RV sites are comfortable with all the amenities. And the customer service is impeccable. We stayed during a few weekdays in October and we almost had the whole place to ourselves," reports a satisfied visitor.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain quality bathhouses and shower facilities. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease."
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated activities for children. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," explains a Washington DC Capitol KOA visitor.
What you should know
Yurt availability is limited: Yurt camping near Fort Howard requires advance planning, especially during peak season (May-September). Most yurts book 3-6 months in advance.
Site selection matters: Choose carefully based on your equipment and privacy needs. One visitor to Codorus State Park Campground notes, "We stayed in site 2 of the Beechnut Loop. I had chosen this site, based on two factors: 1. It was available and 2. It was close to the playground. Unfortunately, it was most likely available because it was overrun with roots and rocks (no pad for the tent)."
Weather considerations: The region experiences sudden summer thunderstorms. Prepare for high humidity and insects during summer months. "We camped here for a somewhat rainy Memorial Day weekend. Despite the rain, we enjoyed ourselves and even did a hike," shares a Susquehanna State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking at yurt-friendly campgrounds near Fort Howard, check playground proximity. "This is a state operated park with camping and primarily draws Eagle watchers and photographers," notes a Susquehanna State Park visitor, highlighting the less family-oriented activities at some locations.
Water activities: Many parks offer fishing and boating but have specific rules about swimming. "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," explains a visitor at Codorus State Park.
Educational opportunities: Cherry Hill Park offers access to educational day trips. "Proximity to DC and surrounding areas can't be beat. Uber, Lyft, bus, shuttle. It takes about a half hour to get downtown to the monuments. Our uber rides ranged from 20-45$ for a family of 5."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electrical and water hookups differ significantly between parks. "Sites are full hook up with about 5 tent sites. All are pretty much level. Close to shopping if needed," notes a visitor at Lums Pond State Park.
Accessibility considerations: Some parks have challenging navigation. "Easy to navigate through with a trailer. Nice trails and playground. Bathrooms were like brand new. Water and electric on our loop," reports a Martinak State Park camper.
Site privacy: RV sites vary greatly in terms of privacy and spacing. "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," warns a Tuckahoe State Park visitor.
