Camping spots near Parkton, Maryland range from developed state parks to secluded riverside campgrounds within a 35-mile radius. Winter temperatures typically dip to 25-30°F from December through February, with summer highs reaching 85-90°F in July and August. Local terrain features mixed hardwood forests with elevations varying from 300 to 800 feet above sea level, creating diverse camping environments.
What to do
Kayaking on Susquehanna River: Visitors to Otter Creek Campground have direct access to both the Susquehanna River and Otter Creek. "Great campground with plenty to do. Its close proximity to the Susquehanna River, Otter Creek, and the Mason Dixon Trail is absolutely ideal!" reports Gerald B. The campground offers boat launch access across the street at Otter Creek Picnic Area.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Ramblin' Pines provides a stocked fishing pond on-site. "There's a pond for fishing, a pool for swimming and a little general store for all your needs," notes Michelle L. No special permit is required for the on-site pond, making it accessible for impromptu fishing trips.
Hiking the Lakeside Trail: The 8.5-mile trail encircling the lake at Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground offers diverse views and terrain. One visitor describes it as "really awesome to see the lake from all different angles." The park also features multiple disc golf courses, though hikers should "BEWARE of poison ivy" on some sections of the courses.
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Pequea Creek Campground. As one camper notes, "We had a huge spot on the end and hardly saw the other campers." The campground offers both creek-side and wooded sites, with many reporting ample space between campsites.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse cleanliness varies across campgrounds, but some receive high marks. At Elk Neck State Park, "Carol kept the bathhouse spotless," according to Adam and Suzanne B. The park features multiple camping loops including full hookup sites.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds organize regular events. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, campers enjoy "candy bar and regular bingo, corn hole and horse shoe tournaments and a dj." The campground also features a playground, pool, and fishing pond all maintained for family use.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October with limited winter availability. Elk Neck State Park Campground is one exception, offering "full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November" according to Laure D.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. Many require minimum 2-night stays during weekends, with reservations needed 2-3 months in advance for prime sites.
Site terrain variations: Tent campers should note that many sites have gravel pads. At Hollofield Area Campground, Jennifer S. observed that "the pad for pitching tents seemed to have poured concrete a few inches down, making it tough to stake anything down." Bringing extra padding and alternative tent securing methods is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer exceptional play areas. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, Angel G. notes "There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," making it "perfect for keeping the kids entertained."
Swimming options: Not all campgrounds permit swimming in their lakes or creeks. Codorus State Park Campground has no swimming allowed in the lake but "there is a pool located at the park, there is no extra cost to use the pool if you are at the campground," according to Catherine H.
Mini cabins: For families new to camping, several parks offer small cabins. At Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area, Sean M. notes they have "neat mini cabins. Small one room cabins that have electricity and heat. They are a nice touch for those that want to camp, but not completely 'rough it.'"
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds have varied site layouts. At Codorus State Park Campground, J K. advises "There is a wide variety of sites so finding one that you like should not be difficult, there are some in wide-open park-like settings, and some that are treed."
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have restrictive access points. Travelers to Hollofield Area should "APPROACH THIS PARK ONLY FROM THE WEST IF YOUR VEHICLE IS OVER 11 FEET HIGH. (There is a 11' bridge coming east bound into this park.)" according to Travyl Couple.
Utility limitations: Electric-only sites are common in state parks. Many private campgrounds offer full hookups, while state parks typically provide electric with central water and dump stations. Check specific loops, as Elk Neck State Park has dedicated full-hookup areas while other loops have electric only.
