The Elk Mills region features a unique blend of woodland, meadow, and riverine landscapes in the northeastern corner of Maryland. Located at 243 feet of elevation, the area experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 79-83°F, making it ideal for extended yurt camping stays. Campgrounds in this region sit near the Maryland-Delaware border where the Big Elk Creek watershed provides both recreational opportunities and natural habitat.
What to do
Kayaking on Lums Pond: Launch your kayak at Lums Pond State Park Campground to explore the 200-acre freshwater pond. "We spent a long weekend with family at Lums Pond State Park Campground and so glad we did... Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more)," notes Matt S.
Treetop adventures: Try the Go Ape course at Lums Pond for a unique perspective. "Leah H. mentions, "From the moment I pulled in and observed how large the sites were, I was hooked. Bike trails, Going Ape, kayaking and peaceful."
Explore historic sites: Visit the old mills and historic structures at Susquehanna State Park, just 25 minutes from Elk Mills. "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," shares Jen V.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at French Creek State Park's twin lakes. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," states a visitor review.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many visitors appreciate the roomy sites at French Creek State Park Campground. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other. Bathrooms were very nice and clean with large showers," says Jen R.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. "Bath house was immaculate; by far the cleanest I have ever seen in a campground. Must have been recently renovated," notes one Susquehanna State Park visitor.
Woodland privacy: The natural separation between sites is valued by campers at Hibernia County Park. "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites," reports Chelsea.
Winter camping options: For year-round yurt camping near Elk Mills, several parks offer extended seasons. "Stayed over for one night in early December. Showers and bathrooms were great! If you're traveling through, there are many places to eat nearby," mentions Galit P. about French Creek State Park.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular sites fill quickly, especially for yurt accommodations. "I understand why it is so difficult to get a reservation at Lums Pond. I don't know if it's the host campers or the management, but they're definitely doing something right," explains Mark at Lums Pond.
Hookup limitations: Know what utilities are available before selecting your site. "There are NO HOOKUPS, and water is not easy to come by if you are in an RV. If you are coming in an RV, you should come with a full water tank," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Tent pad considerations: Some sites lack proper tent pads or level ground. "Not all of the sites had bath to the bathhouse, and the path that they did have was also very rocky and covered in roots," reports a visitor to Susquehanna State Park.
Seasonal closures: Check operating schedules when planning yurt camping trips near Elk Mills. "This campground is only open on the weekends, in season. Sites can be reserved online, by phone, or by 'first come, first served' self-registration," notes a Hibernia County Park review.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly loops: When traveling with pets, choose appropriate camping areas. "Loop C is the only loop that allows pets. I expected it to be much noisier than it was. All of the dogs were well behaved, and we didn't have any problems as we took our walks around the loop," reports Ranger Jen at Woodlands Camping Resort.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas when camping with children. "We stayed in site 2 of the Beechnut Loop. I had chosen this site, based on two factors: 1. It was available and 2. It was close to the playground," shares a Susquehanna State Park visitor.
Kid-focused activities: Some campgrounds offer specialized programming for younger campers. "Visited this campground a couple of years ago to run a 5k! Campsites were spacious and the water park was fantastic!" notes Ella P. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Fishing ponds for children: Look for youth-specific fishing areas. "Lake Campground great for families... The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," mentions Anna about Hibernia County Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra work for larger rigs. "The sites are not level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Backing assistance: Staff can help with difficult sites at Philadelphia-West Chester KOA. "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. So difficult, that I cracked the bottom of my front cap catching the grass and gravel beside the grave road," cautions Matt S.
Seasonal sites: Some RV parks offer different experiences by season. "In February, about 1/4 of the sites were occupied. It was very quiet. The sites are large and well spaced. Many are in full sun," reports Adam and Suzanne B. about their winter visit to Lums Pond State Park.
Full hookup availability: For extended yurt camping stays near Elk Mills, confirm utilities. "We paid $46 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Back-in site(#56). This place is a gem, even among nice state parks," advises Matt S. about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
