Camping opportunities around Chesapeake City, Maryland center on the region where the Elk and Northeast rivers feed into the northern Chesapeake Bay. This area sits at low elevations under 100 feet above sea level, creating access to both wooded terrain and water-based recreation. Summer humidity levels frequently reach 80-90% during peak camping months, requiring proper ventilation for tents and RVs.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lums Pond State Park offers a 7-mile hiking trail and an 8-mile multi-purpose trail surrounding a 200-acre millpond. One camper noted, "The trails were well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike."
Water activities: Susquehanna State Park Campground provides access to creek wading and river exploration. "There are also plenty of areas to stop along the road in the campground, with access to the creek for wading. The water felt great, but the bottom was rather pebbly," explains one visitor. Fishing opportunities exist throughout the park's waterways.
Historical exploration: Visit the working grist mill at Susquehanna State Park. As one camper mentioned, "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view." This area offers educational opportunities about the region's industrial past.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Elk Neck State Park Campground receives high marks for its site layout and natural buffer zones. "Site was well maintained and very clean. Bathrooms were clean with showers and wash stations. Great views of the bay and beaches," says one reviewer who appreciated the park's maintenance standards.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently praise the bathhouse conditions at several parks. At Susquehanna State Park, a visitor observed, "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated." This attention to cleanliness makes longer stays more comfortable.
Family-friendly amenities: Blackbird State Forest Campground offers spacious sites with basic amenities. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" reports one camper. The forest setting provides natural play spaces for children.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: For Lums Pond State Park, securing spots requires advance planning. One visitor advised, "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations. Book early because it fills up fast!" This is especially true for waterfront and full hookup sites.
Site conditions vary: At Elk Neck State Park, tent campers should note ground conditions. "The pad for pitching tents seemed to have poured concrete a few inches down, making it tough to stake anything down," reported one camper, suggesting bringing alternative anchoring methods for tents.
Limited facilities at some locations: Blackbird State Forest offers a more primitive experience. A visitor explained, "No running water- only port a potties but they were clean." Campers need to bring their own water supply when staying at this location.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA provides excellent recreation options for children. "The camp playground was brand new when we arrived and they had just broken ground. There are two different playground in the same area to accommodate kids of all ages. They also have pickleball, mini golf and a lovely pool," notes one family.
Nature engagement opportunities: Susquehanna State Park offers wildlife viewing close to camp. "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," shares a parent who visited with young children.
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures at most campgrounds regularly reach the 90s with high humidity. Pack extra clothing for children and consider sites with shade. One Elk Neck visitor recommended, "Sites on pond side were more spread apart than the opposite side," highlighting the importance of selecting sites with natural cooling.
Tips from RVers
Site selection insights: At Woodlands Camping Resort, RVers should note infrastructure details. "Only 4 50 amp spots, luckily we secured one. No sewer hookup, but there is a dump station in the seasonal/permanent section," explains one RVer, emphasizing the importance of requesting specific hookup requirements when booking.
Access considerations: Philadelphia-West Chester KOA presents challenges for larger rigs. "I did have major trouble backing in because the road is too narrow for a 45' motorhome to back in on a nearly 90-degree angle. The trailers/5th wheels seem better because they 'bend' at the hitch," cautions one RVer who experienced difficulty.
Hook-up availability: Lums Pond State Park offers full hookup sites with concrete pads. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," noted one camper, making this location particularly suitable for RVers seeking modern amenities within a natural setting.
