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Best Campgrounds near Parkton, MD

1,066 Reviews

Campgrounds near Parkton, Maryland span from established family-friendly parks to more secluded natural settings within an hour's drive. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm in nearby Freeland offers tent, RV, and cabin camping with full hookups, while Patapsco Valley State Park provides a more natural camping experience with both Hollofield and Hilton areas featuring electric hookups and tent sites. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort. The area's mixed-use campgrounds typically provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails.

Access to developed campgrounds varies seasonally, with many sites operating from April through October or early November. "This campground isn't too far from our home in Maryland, so if they have room and we want to go spur of the moment, this one is a good choice," noted one visitor about Codorus State Park, highlighting the convenience of the area's camping options. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when campgrounds like Elk Neck State Park and Gifford Pinchot State Park fill quickly. Most campgrounds feature bathroom facilities with showers, though quality and cleanliness can vary. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with humid summers and mild springs and falls that provide ideal camping conditions.

The camping experience near Parkton benefits from proximity to both natural attractions and urban amenities. Several visitors mentioned the peaceful settings and recreational opportunities available at nearby state parks. "Beautiful picturesque campground with large spots and a lot of trees. Very quiet and close enough to Lancaster for shopping," one camper shared about Pequea Creek Campground. Many developed campgrounds in the area feature water access, with Gifford Pinchot and Codorus State Parks offering lakeside camping and water activities. Families appreciate the playgrounds and recreational facilities at campgrounds like Patapsco Valley State Park, which one reviewer described as having a "HUGE tire park/playground" that anyone entering the park can access. The region's mixed topography of rolling hills and wooded areas creates varied camping environments, from secluded forest sites to more open, social camping areas.

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Detours Nearby

Cedar Lake Family Campground

Cedar Lake Family Campground

42 min away

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Campground Island

44 min away

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Best Camping Sites Near Parkton, Maryland (130)

    1. Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    19 Reviews
    Freeland, MD
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 329-6636

    "It was a VERY dark walk to get to the bathhouse for showers. And the fire pit had no grill, so we ended up having to use the stoves of some RV camping friends for meals."

    "Large campground with some good trails. 

    Will definitely return!"

    2. Codorus State Park Campground

    40 Reviews
    Porters Sideling, PA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 637-2816

    $24 - $247 / night

    "This campground isn't too far from our home in Maryland, so if they have room and we want to go spur of the moment, this one is a good choice.  "

    "The trails from

    Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.  The pool is conveniently located maybe even walking distance for some.  "

    3. Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    Wellsville, PA
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 292-4112

    $24 - $89 / night

    "We have a small camper and there are some great sites on the lake side to park it where you can get AMAZING sunset views.  "

    "Songle car parking spot on the road then a short walk down a hill onto the site. two tent areas and plenty of prime hammock trees. there’s a small deer trail that runs between all of the sites on the water"

    4. Hollofield Area Campground

    19 Reviews
    Windsor Mill, MD
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 461-5005

    $19 - $27 / night

    "It has 8 recreation areas and we stayed at the Hollofield Area in April- one of our first experiences in a Maryland State Park. Beautiful park with 70 miles of hiking/biking /multi use trails."

    "This campground is pleasant, but the sites are situated quite close to one another."

    5. Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area

    19 Reviews
    Catonsville, MD
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 461-5005

    $20 - $51 / night

    "Camp site(Tent camping)

    The camp site is what it is, just a camp site :)  It's one of the bigger state parks surrounded by forest in MD."

    "Another negative was after the storm for the next few days we heard trees falling nearby."

    6. Otter Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Pequea, PA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 862-3628

    "Just down the road about a mile or so was the Indian Steps Museum which is owned by York Conservation Society."

    "Its close proximity to the Susquehanna River, Otter Creek, and the Mason Dixon Trail is absolutely ideal! Sites are spacious and nice! Restrooms clean!"

    7. Pequea Creek Campground

    14 Reviews
    Pequea, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 284-4587

    "Covered bridges and road side shopping are close by. Enjoyed river tubing which is close by to this campground. Music bingo on Saturday night was so much fun. Owners are very nice and helpful."

    "The wife & I stayed in site 22 for three nights and bicycled 14 miles, some along the Susquehanna, on nearby Enola Low Grade Trail . "

    8. Tucquan Park Family Campground

    12 Reviews
    Holtwood, PA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (717) 284-2156

    "Highly recommend staying here with lots of close hiking trails within driving distance."

    "There was a lot of space so walking our dogs was great. The smaller bathroom stalls are pretty small but got the job done. Playground and pool were both nice and clean. Wonderful place for a family."

    9. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "Nice state park. Tons of campsites. One loop has full hookups. Careful of choosing a site if you have a big rig. The loop has tight turns and some seriously non level sites."

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    10. Ramblin' Pines

    17 Reviews
    Woodbine, MD
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 795-5161

    $30 - $70 / night

    "We stay at Ramblin Pines because it is close to family and a good proximity to visiting Baltimore and Frederick."

    "We love this home away from home ❤️"

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Showing results 1-10 of 130 campgrounds

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Recent Camping Photos near Parkton, MD

394 Photos of 130 Parkton Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Parkton, MD

1066 Reviews of 130 Parkton Campgrounds

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground

    Peace and quiet !

    Great spot! We had site 114 . It has water access and is right next to a small man made beach and playground. Bathrooms were in good shape. Sites were of ample size and well spaced.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    In Amish area, next to an amusement park

    Our kids where happy with the small playground and with a few dollars they could have some fun in the small arcade/gameroom. In the area you have Lancaster, Amish area and an amusement park (that is a bit outdated). The camping has a bit over 100 spots. They are just oké.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • eThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Round Top Campground

    I camped and worked here.

    I’m a shamanic energy healer and health enthusiast exploring a new life and hunting for healthy. While this campground has some nice features. This certainly is not a health conscious facility. Lots of smoking, drinking and unhealthy food. There was also evidence of mice in the main store and definitely issues with the water.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Old Mill Stream Campground

    Good stay

    The entrance in off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground. We stayed on site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp.

  • Barbara P.
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Spring Gulch Resort Campground

    BED BUGS in Cabin

    I believe Cabin 1409 is infested with BED BUGS! After a short stay in this cabin(7/28-7/30) I came home with 80+ bug bites that I'm certain were from BED BUGS. A dozen of them were on my eyelid! My dermatologist gave me a high strength dosage of prednisone to combat the swelling and itching. We promptly advised the property manager, who was sympathetic, but once our claim for damages(mostly items we had to throw out due to contamination) reached the insurance company, the process stalled. It's been 19 days and now the insurance adjuster is out of the office for another week- having provided no updates or feedback on our claim. I wish I had posted this earlier, as I wonder if the cabin that Michael M complained about in his Aug. 4 YELP review was the very same cabin. I had hoped our conversations with the property manager would have prevented additional folks from the same fate. I also wish I had read a few earlier reviews that warned of BED BUGS. I continue to fear an infestation in my home, in the event we brought home nymphs or eggs or the bugs themselves. I'm constantly vacuuming and looking under seat cushions and my mattress. I now dry all my laundry on high for 60 minutes, knowing it's damaging my clothes, but also knowing it's the best way to kill the bugs and their eggs- which can go dormant and survive for a year without biting again. Zero stars. Choose to stay elsewhere!

  • Edison L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Country Acres Campground

    So Nice It’s Almost Not Camping

    We stayed at one of the primitive tent sites with no hookups adjacent to the farm field. Watching a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner was a joy. Amenities are super clean and modern. Clean bathroom, laundry room, pool area for the kids, and a well stocked store. The only critique I have is that you can hear the distant sound of cars on the road. But this is by no means a nuisance. Just helping you make an informed decision. I would definitely go back.

  • R
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Deer Run Campgrounds

    Good for kids

    It's very nice here, good for kids, big pool. The sites for campers are very tight.

  • Sharon L.
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Merry Meadows Recreation Farm

    Great getaway close to home!

    We totally loved our camping trip here! I was a little apprehensive because I read so many disappointing reviews about pretty much everything. People didn’t like this or that, but most of it seemed as if they weren’t happy with rules! Neither of us found anything that was so terrible in the rules and truthfully, if more campgrounds had them and enforced them, it would be nice for all.

    We loved the peace and quiet, the restrooms were clean and tidy, the usable sites all looked nice. They had a tornado come through at the beginning of the season that messed some areas up, but they are working it. The pool area seemed like the place to be. We just went to rest though. Honestly, we liked the campground so much that we would consider parking our camper over the summer! There are occasional whiffs of McCormick spices in the air that is very soothing. Prices aren’t horrible. One of the complaints was they work on cash. Yeah, I knows it’s not popular because most of us live in a plastic dominated world. I read it in advance and I just made sure we had some with us. The activities and store weren’t outrageous. Ready to go back!

Guide to Parkton

Camping near Parkton, Maryland, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground, have beautiful trails. One visitor noted, “The bathhouse was fairly close and clean. Though it was rainy and chilly, we had fun hanging out at our site.”
  • Fishing and Boating: At Codorus State Park Campground, you can enjoy the lake. A reviewer mentioned, “The lake is great! Lovely areas to relax and explore.”
  • Historical Tours: If you’re near Gettysburg, check out the Gettysburg Campground for easy access to historical sites. One camper shared, “Was very easy to access from the campground. Was not a lot in the way of restaurants and take out nearby.”

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Susquehanna State Park Campground said, “The bathrooms were kept clean. There was quite a bit of poison ivy though.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A reviewer at Ramblin' Pines mentioned, “The sites are clean and level. Plenty of activities on site.”
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park provide fun for kids. One parent noted, “Kids enjoy the water park and nighttime laser tag parties and hay rides.”

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Susquehanna State Park Campground mentioned, “If that is your thing it is a great place. The sites are well kept and the tent pads are in great shape.”
  • Site Sizes: Not all sites are spacious. A camper at Circle M RV and Camping Resort said, “The place was packed, the lots were cramped up.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A reviewer at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm noted, “You have to use a key card to get in and OUT.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at Artillery Ridge Campground enjoyed, “The pool, mini golf, and live music were great.”
  • Check for Safety: Make sure the campground is safe for children. A parent at Gettysburg Campground mentioned, “With all the dogs and kids here we were surprised how quiet it was!”
  • Pack Snacks: Some campgrounds are far from stores. A camper at Codorus State Park Campground suggested, “The trails from Campground are ok for a short walk, not much of a lake view but mostly shaded trail.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Your Site: Many sites can be uneven. A reviewer at Circle M RV and Camping Resort advised, “Must have leveling blocks.”
  • Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Ramblin' Pines noted, “The electric worked fine and we were able to reach the sewer with our 20’ hose.”
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds fill up quickly. A camper at Merry Meadows Recreation Farm said, “If you want to camp on the weekends – book early.”

Camping near Parkton, Maryland, has something for everyone, whether you’re a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can visitors enjoy in Parkton, Maryland?

Parkton and the surrounding area offer diverse outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the extensive trail system at Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area which features over 70 miles of hiking, biking, and multi-use trails along the scenic Patapsco River. The region is perfect for river tubing during summer months, with several access points nearby. For families, Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area provides excellent playgrounds and recreational facilities. The area also offers opportunities to explore covered bridges, enjoy roadside shopping, attend seasonal events like music bingo, and observe unique flora like ghost flowers and mountain laurels during nature walks.

Where can I find camping spots near Parkton, MD?

Several excellent camping options surround Parkton, MD. Elk Neck State Park Campground offers numerous campsites with one loop featuring full hookups, though be cautious with large rigs as some sites have tight turns and uneven terrain. For a quieter experience, Owens Creek Campground — Catoctin Mountain Park provides peaceful sites with creek access and ample privacy, making it less crowded than neighboring parks. Other notable options include Hollofield Area Campground with beautiful wooded sites, Gambrill State Park Campground with level, shaded sites, and Merry Meadows Recreation Farm which offers various amenities for families and big rigs.

What are the best seasons for camping in Parkton?

The ideal camping season in the Parkton area runs from late spring through early fall. Summer is particularly pleasant at Gambrill State Park Campground, where shaded sites provide natural cooling during hot months. The park features level sites and hidden fire rings that enhance the camping experience. For those seeking summer heat relief, Pequea Creek Campground offers a picturesque setting with large, tree-covered spots that provide ample shade. Fall brings spectacular foliage and more comfortable temperatures, while spring showcases wildflowers and flowing creeks. Winter camping is possible but facilities may be limited, and some campgrounds close seasonally.

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