Camping options near Havre de Grace extend beyond the main state parks into smaller recreational areas and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at the meeting point of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay, creating diverse waterfront camping environments from riverside woodland sites to bay view locations. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers more comfortable conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Elk Neck State Park Campground, campers can fish directly from waterfront sites or take a short drive to nearby fishing spots. "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," reports Kate J., highlighting the wildlife viewing that often accompanies fishing trips.
Hiking with a view: The Turkey Point Lighthouse trail at Elk Neck provides both exercise and scenery. "The lighthouse trail is a must. It is about a five minute drive to get to the trail though, but is worth it," explains Jalissa Y. The trail offers views of the Chesapeake Bay with moderate difficulty levels.
Water activities: Cecil County's waterways support multiple recreational options. "You have access to water and hiking trails. Can picnic on Deer Creek and go tubing," notes one visitor to the area. Many campgrounds provide direct water access for kayaking and canoeing without requiring long portages.
What campers like
Limited cell coverage: For those seeking digital disconnection, some local campgrounds offer natural technology breaks. At Muddy Run Recreation Park, camper Megan S. appreciates that there's "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect. I absolutely love it!"
Wildlife viewing: The rich ecosystem supports diverse animal spotting opportunities. "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," reports Kate J. from Elk Neck State Park. At Muddy Run, another camper notes, "My favorite evening activities (besides enjoying a campfire) are dusk deer-watching! There are hundreds of deer in this protected park."
Nearby attractions: The region offers more than just camping. According to Laure D., Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina puts you "40 min. from Baltimore Harbor, Ravens and Orioles stadiums. Bel Air is 20 min. away and has several restaurants. Walmart is 10-15 min. away."
What you should know
Varying site privacy: Camp site seclusion differs dramatically across locations. At Susquehanna State Park Campground, camper Anne L. found "site 26 I believe, it was very private from neighbors and the road, surrounded by beautiful mature trees, and just the right distance from the restrooms."
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. For Lums Pond State Park, camper David G. advises, "In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped."
Weather considerations: The area experiences high humidity in summer months. At Elk Neck State Park, Adam and Suzanne B. found, "Sadly most of the park, including the beach, was closed for major renovation while we were there and it was 99 degrees out. Very buggy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, consider site proximity to play areas. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville, "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" reports Karla R. The water features are particularly popular during hot summer months.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events. "The campground offers Amenities for all camping styles from multiple primitive site locations to RV sites with water and electric hookups," notes Alanna M. about Muddy Run Recreation Park, adding that "The park throughout the year has activities and events that are fun for the whole family."
Tent pad considerations: For families with tents, site selection matters. At Susquehanna State Park, Jennifer S. advises, "I would 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."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Electric and water connection placement varies considerably between campgrounds. At Cecil County Permaculture, facilities are basic but functional with Charles H. noting there's "running water on side of house near outhouse. An is a wonderful person. Good reception with T-Mobile!"
Site leveling: Some campgrounds have particularly challenging terrain for larger rigs. At Muddy Run Recreation Park, Chris G. warns, "Bring 50 ft of hose for water hook up and an extension cord with a converter. The water hook ups are randomly placed, ours was 2 sites away."
Access considerations: Not all area campgrounds accommodate large RVs. Bar Harbor RV Park visitors should note that "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," according to Craig Z.
