Susquehanna State Park Campground offers electric hookups at campsites situated in the Acorn and Beechnut loops, with many sites featuring concrete tent pads and gravel driveways. Campers can access multiple trails directly from the campground, including paths that lead to Deer Creek and the Susquehanna River. The park's location approximately 8 miles northwest of Joppa provides convenient access to outdoor recreation while maintaining a secluded woodland camping experience.
What to do
Fish in multiple locations: Anglers can fish in both the Susquehanna River and smaller bodies of water throughout the region. At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, visitors can access Tuckahoe Creek directly from the campground. "I took her older cousins to the fishing pier, and we didn't even get a nibble, but I think it was too cold for panfish that close to shore," notes one visitor. The park also offers fishing gear rentals for those traveling without equipment.
Explore historic sites: Visit the working grist mill and historic buildings at Susquehanna State Park. "There is a historic area in the park, with a working grist mill, mansion and other little buildings to view. Not really my thing, but was pretty neat. The views of the river are really nice from here," shares one camper who appreciated the cultural sites even though they weren't their primary interest.
Hike champion trees: Take an accessible trail to see notable trees. At Susquehanna State Park Campground, one family reports, "Kids, wife and I had fun hiking to a really old tree in the area (I don't remember the name, but it was really cool). Will definitely be going back." These hikes offer opportunities to see wildlife and unique flora while maintaining easy access for most skill levels.
What campers like
Well-maintained bathhouses: Many campgrounds in the area feature modern bathroom facilities. A visitor to Lums Pond State Park Campground noted, "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms." This attention to cleanliness extends across many parks near Joppa, making them suitable for glamping in Joppa, Maryland.
Spacious, wooded sites: Campers consistently mention the privacy offered by tree coverage and site spacing. One reviewer at Tucquan Park Family Campground shared, "The primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free." This natural setting provides a true woodland experience while still offering access to amenities.
Honor system for essentials: Some parks maintain convenient after-hours access to necessities. A Susquehanna State Park visitor mentioned, "They also sell ice and firewood at the campstore AND there is an honor system with it available to you after the campstore hours. This is great so that you don't have to time things around when the campstore is open." This flexibility allows campers to focus on enjoying their glamping experience rather than scheduling supply runs.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. A visitor to Codorus State Park Campground advises, "We camped at Codorus State Park for the first time a few years ago while out east. We really love this Campground! There is a wide variety of sites so finding one that you like should not be difficult." Make reservations weeks in advance, particularly for luxury glamping accommodations.
Site selection considerations: Not all sites are created equal, so research before booking. One camper at Susquehanna notes, "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)- and you also couldn't see the playground from the site." When planning a glamping trip near Joppa, verify site amenities match your expectations.
Weather preparedness: The area experiences significant seasonal changes. A visitor to Susquehanna State Park observed, "We camped here for a somewhat rainy Memorial Day weekend. Despite the rain, we enjoyed ourselves and even did a hike." Pack appropriate gear for unpredictable weather, especially during spring and fall seasons when glamping near Joppa.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity matters: For families with young children, choosing sites near recreational facilities saves walking time. At Merry Meadows Recreation Farm, "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." This convenience allows parents to easily supervise children while maintaining camp duties.
Consider age-appropriate activities: Different parks cater to specific age ranges. One family visiting Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville shared, "We had stayed in this campground about 5 years ago and we loved it. We returned this year with my 12 and 14 year olds and a 12 year old friend. The kids were bored." Research which parks offer activities matching your children's interests and ages when planning glamping experiences.
Pack for multiple scenarios: Weather and site conditions can vary widely. A visitor to Tucquan Park noted, "When I went to leave on Sunday, as I was driving up an incline my trailer became unhitched from my tow vehicle. The whole hitch came off and the trailer was dragging by the chains!" Always bring emergency supplies and equipment for unexpected situations when glamping with family.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should be prepared for varying site conditions. At Cherry Hill Park, a visitor shared, "Gravel pad" as one of the few drawbacks in an otherwise positive review, indicating the importance of bringing leveling blocks. Most luxury glamping sites offer more level pads, but traditional RV sites may require adjustments.
Hook-up locations: Check the configuration of utilities before setting up. A camper at Susquehanna warned, "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." Bringing extension cords and extra hoses can help overcome these challenges at less developed glamping locations near Joppa.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. As one Susquehanna State Park visitor noted, "We didn't get a chance to do any hiking (because we were lazy campers) but very much enjoyed our weekend stay." Most glamping facilities near Joppa operate primarily from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
