Nestled along the Chesapeake Bay's northeastern shores, North East, Maryland offers campers diverse terrain with elevations ranging from near sea level to approximately 300 feet. The area experiences humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the prime camping seasons with reduced humidity and temperatures between 60-75°F.
What to Do
Lighthouse hiking: 1.5 mile trail at Elk Neck State Park Campground leads to Turkey Point Lighthouse with Chesapeake Bay views. "There is a light house and the view are definitely worth it. Definitely drive to, and then hike to the light house (open most weekends)," recommends David G.
Fishing opportunities: multiple species await anglers at Susquehanna State Park. "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."
Kayaking: electric motors only permitted on Lums Pond State Park Campground waters. "Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," notes Ellen B. The 200-acre pond offers calm waters ideal for beginners.
Mountain biking: 7+ miles of trails available at French Creek State Park. The campground features "tons of activities" and "plenty of park events to keep you busy," with "trails for mountain biking or hiking, a frisbee golf course, playground at the campground and at the lake."
What Campers Like
Full hookup convenience: recently renovated sites at French Creek State Park Campground provide excellent amenities. "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," shares Jen R.
Digital detox: no cell service at Elk Neck provides a truly unplugged experience. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect. I absolutely love it!" explains Megan S., highlighting the increasingly rare opportunity to escape constant connectivity.
Waterfront campsites: direct water access at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina allows fishing from your site. "Some sites you are right on the waters edge. Bathroom was clean, pool was closed...not too many campers but it sure was a nice time," reports Janet P. Sites accommodate various RV sizes from small trailers to large Class A motorhomes.
Private, wooded sites: spacious camping at Blackbird State Forest provides seclusion. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" says Sarah M. The forest setting offers natural shade and separation between campers.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: seasonal closures affect some facilities. "Sadly most of the park, including the beach, was closed for major renovation while we were there and it was 99 degrees out. Very buggy," reports Adam and Suzanne B. about Elk Neck.
Varying site quality: research site numbers before booking at Susquehanna State Park Campground. "Our specific site was supposed to have a tent pad but there wasnt a spot cleared for our tent and we had to move the heavy picnic table so we weren't putting up our tent on top of the fire ring," explains E K.
Primitive camping options: limited amenities at Cecil County Permaculture include basic facilities. "Has outhouse, fire pit, running water on side of house near outhouse. An is a wonderful person," shares Charles H. This dog friendly campground near North East offers just two sites for a truly rustic experience.
Bathhouse distance: walking required at some campgrounds. "Tent campers keep your shoes handy, its a hike," warns al K. about Lums Pond, noting that bathhouses are often positioned closer to RV sites than tent areas.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pack for varied weather: temperature fluctuations common throughout camping season. "Went for a small hike around the lake - we were toting three kids, one of which was in a stroller. I was able to fit 5 diapers, a large bottle of suntan lotion, a pack of wipes, snack container, travel changing pad," shares a Lums Pond visitor.
Playground proximity: request sites near recreation for easier supervision. Muddy Run Recreation Park features "two playgrounds located within close proximity to most camping sites, these have been pretty worn down over the years and could use some TLC but still heavily occupied by children each weekend who don't seem to mind."
Wildlife viewing: evening deer watching provides memorable experiences. "My favorite evening activities (besides enjoying a campfire) are dusk deer-watching! There are hundreds of deer in this protected park," shares Jenn D. about Muddy Run, making it perfect for nature-loving families.
Water activities: splash features at various locations. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," notes Ashley S. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville, which is within driving distance of North East.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: concrete pads available at select campgrounds. "Sites are big and all were redone in the last few years with concrete pads, 30 amp service and full sewer," explains Ellen B. about Lums Pond, which is especially valuable for larger rigs.
Water connection length: bring extra hose for some sites. "Bring 50 ft of hose for water hook up and an extension cord with a converter. The water hook ups are randomly placed, ours was 2 sites away," advises Chris G. about Muddy Run Recreation Park.
Reservation timing: book early for popular pet-friendly campgrounds near North East. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns Ellen B. about Lums Pond, which offers spacious sites that accommodate large RVs but can be difficult to reserve during peak season.
RV site selection: verify dimensions before booking. "In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites," cautions David G. about Elk Neck.
