Lineboro, Maryland sits at the Pennsylvania-Maryland border in Carroll County, with elevations ranging from 600-800 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 80-85°F during peak camping months. Fall brings vibrant foliage from late September through October, making it a popular season for campers seeking woodland sites within the region's mixed hardwood forests.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Gifford Pinchot State Park offers two 18-hole disc golf courses in separate day use areas. "Beware of poison ivy!! We played the first 10 holes around the Conewago day use area and I was shocked at how much poison ivy we had to dodge all over the prime walking areas through the course," warns one visitor to Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds near Lineboro feature stocked ponds and lake access for anglers. Cedar Lake Family Campground stocks their lake with trout seasonally. A visitor noted, "The lake is nice and they stock it with trout. The animal area could stand a good cleaning, but my little one enjoyed them." The fishing experience varies by season, with spring typically offering the best catches.
Historical exploration: Located approximately 20 minutes from Lineboro, Gettysburg's historic battlefield draws many campers. "We camped at Artillery Ridge Campground, which served as an artillery storage/staging area for the Union during the battle. Behind the campsite we stayed at, we learned connected to Stangler Farm, which served as a hospital for the wounded," writes a visitor to Artillery Ridge Campground.
Kayaking and water activities: Multiple lakes in the area provide paddling opportunities from April through October. "I took an early morning hike on the 8.5 mile Lakeside Trail that goes around the lake and it was really awesome to see the lake from all different angles," shares a camper about their experience at Gifford Pinchot.
What campers like
Spacious wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the generous site sizes at certain campgrounds near Lineboro. At Cedar Lake Family Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Tent site near the lake is HUGE." The wooded surroundings provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures can reach the upper 80s.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive positive reviews at several locations. A camper at Gettysburg Campground shared, "Whenever we go to Gettysburg which is usually once a year we always stay here. Really nice place. Recommend a site by the creek. Cool laid back staff and clean bathrooms nice playground for kids."
Proximity to attractions: The strategic location between multiple destinations makes glamping close to Lineboro, Maryland appealing. "We chose this location because we were visiting Gettysburg and Hershey park and it was centrally located," noted a visitor to Pinchot State Park Campground. Most major attractions are within a 30-45 minute drive from campgrounds in the area.
Year-round availability: Unlike seasonal glamping options, some campgrounds remain open throughout winter. Ramblin' Pines operates year-round, allowing for cold-weather camping experiences when most other facilities close for the season.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak summer months and fall foliage season, book sites 3-6 months in advance, especially for weekend stays. Holiday weekends often fill completely 6-8 months ahead.
Varying site conditions: Not all sites are level or equally accessible. At Granite Hill Camping Resort, a camper warned, "The site was extremely difficult to get into, as uneven as it gets." Bringing leveling blocks and extra hose/cord length helps prepare for site variations.
Seasonal maintenance issues: Some facilities reduce maintenance during shoulder seasons. "The bathhouses / restrooms are clean (about average for PA state park system)," noted a camper at Gifford Pinchot, while another mentioned, "The one wash basin was out of order and the one that was available had old food in it and barely drained."
Weather considerations: The area experiences occasional severe weather, particularly summer thunderstorms. "Power outage at a lot of the campground Friday night due to a tree down on the power lines," reported a camper at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm. Having weather contingency plans is advisable from May through August.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programs during peak season. A visitor to Merry Meadows Recreation Farm shared, "We stayed here this past Easter and they had plenty of activities for kids and adults. Easter egg hunts for kids, adult scavenger hunts for alcohol. Wonderful experience for the whole family."
Consider proximity to restrooms: When traveling with young children, site location matters. At Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, a family noted, "Our spot (225) was an awkward layout but we were able to make it work with two tents. The site came with a firepit and a picnic bench. Bugs weren't too bad and we were in between two bathroom/shower houses."
Choose campgrounds with multiple recreation options: Facilities with diverse activities keep children engaged regardless of weather. A camper at Gettysburg praised, "We have been members at the Gettysburg battlefield resort campground for over 10 years. They have tons to do as the family. During the summer may have different themed weekends and fun activities for the whole family."
Check beach and swimming facilities: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas, but quality varies. "The kids enjoyed the beach, it was crowded. But it was July. The campground and area itself seemed nice," reported a visitor to Pinchot State Park in July.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords and hoses: Multiple campgrounds have unusual hookup placements. "The hookups are oddly spaced and you need to ensure you have extentions handy. My electric hookup didn't work on 30A," noted an RVer at Granite Hill.
Site selection considerations: For optimal experiences, carefully review site maps before booking. "If you're looking for a backwoods, off-the-beaten-path type of campground, this isn't it. If you are looking for a campground that is very close to an historical National Park not to mention shopping and restaurants, this is for you," explained a visitor with a 32-foot coach at Gettysburg Campground.
Length restrictions: While glamping options close to Lineboro accommodate most RV sizes, accessibility varies significantly. Site depths and access road widths differ between campgrounds, with state parks generally having more limitations than private facilities.
