Camping options around Kennedyville, Maryland lie within the Chesapeake Bay watershed where the average summer temperature reaches 87°F with humidity levels regularly exceeding 70%. The region features sandy soil conditions and scattered woodland areas interspersed with agricultural fields. Most campgrounds in the area operate from March through November, closing during winter when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 3 miles from Martinak State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple waterways for angling. As one camper notes, "This is a great place to catch some good action fish. I've always had some success whenever I've been here" at Martinak State Park Campground. The waterfront location provides easy access for both experienced and novice anglers.
Hiking trails: 20 miles of mixed-use paths are available at Tuckahoe State Park Campground, where trails accommodate various activities. A visitor confirms, "20 miles of hiking trails are also open for biking and horseback riding." The trails connect to multiple park features including the lake and creek areas.
Water activities: Rent canoes at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA where paddlers can enjoy the calm Brandywine River. A reviewer mentions, "Being on the Brandywine, you can fish and rent canoes. The river is usually very calm and good for a float." The water is typically slow-moving, making it suitable for beginners.
Bird watching: Eagles and waterfowl viewing locations are particularly abundant near Susquehanna State Park. According to one visitor, "This is a state operated park with camping and primarily draws Eagle watchers and photographers." Spring and fall migrations offer the best opportunities for diverse species sightings.
What campers like
Playground facilities: Multiple age-appropriate play areas can be found at many locations. A visitor to Philadelphia-West Chester KOA observed, "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." These facilities provide entertainment options during inclement weather.
Private sites: Well-spaced camping spots are featured at Lums Pond State Park Campground, where a camper noted, "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved." Many sites include concrete pads and full hookups for comfort.
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathhouses are common in the region's parks. A visitor to Martinak State Park shared, "Bathhouses were like brand new," while another at Tuckahoe mentioned, "The bathroom/ showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year." Most parks clean facilities multiple times daily.
Secluded atmosphere: Wooded camping areas create natural privacy barriers. As one camper at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm described, "The resort is spacious, scattered throughout the woods. The RV sites are comfortable with all the amenities." Many sites feature tree coverage that provides shade and natural sound barriers.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book 3-6 months in advance for weekend stays from May through September. A Lums Pond visitor advised, "Book early because it fills up fast!" Particularly for glamping in Kennedyville, Maryland area, availability becomes limited during peak season.
Seasonal operation: Most parks close from December through February due to weather conditions. One visitor noted at Tuckahoe State Park, "We tend to use Tuckahoe as a way station while camping our way up and down the Bay." Most facilities operate from March to late November.
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms can impact camping plans. A camper at Woodlands Camping Resort shared, "The campground is gated and that is nice, because the surrounding area is not great." Having alternate activity plans for rainy periods is advisable.
Variable site conditions: Some spots lack level ground or adequate drainage. A visitor to Tuckahoe State Park warned, "Some sites not level," while another mentioned, "The sites are well maintained. The bathroom/ showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year." Researching specific site numbers before booking improves experience.
Tips for camping with families
Check age restrictions: Pool usage policies vary between locations. At Washington DC Capitol KOA, a visitor observed, "I didnt like that non potty trained kids are not allowed to swim in their pool." These restrictions may impact family activities for those with younger children.
Schedule campground activities: Organized events often occur weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville, a guest mentioned, "Fun fun and more fun loads of activities for the kids! Breakfast with Yogi!" Checking activity calendars helps maximize family enjoyment.
Choose sites near playgrounds: Walking distance to facilities reduces transportation needs. One parent shared about Susquehanna State Park Campground, "For kids, the playground was fantastic, though, it was not shaded. It is also in the middle of the Acorn and Beechnut loop." Site selection can significantly impact convenience for families with small children.
Pack for variable conditions: Temperature swings of 20°F can occur between day and night. A Merry Meadows visitor noted, "We stayed in one of the cabins, which had 2 beds and a bunk bed, sink and toilet, refrigerator, microwave, dining table and sofa." Glamping accommodations near Kennedyville, Maryland often provide better temperature regulation than tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Limited sewer hookups at state parks require planning. A visitor to Martinak State Park Campground noted, "Sites do not have sewer but does have dump. Great park that offers alot!" Most parks provide potable water fill stations near dump facilities.
Site dimensions: Width restrictions impact larger vehicles at several campgrounds. One RVer at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA warned, "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." Requesting specific measurements before booking prevents arrival difficulties.
Electric service variability: Amperage options differ between parks and individual sites. At Lums Pond State Park, a camper noted, "All were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer." Bringing appropriate adapters ensures compatibility with available power sources.
