Camping sites near Port Deposit, Maryland sit at the convergence of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay, with elevations ranging from near sea level to approximately 300 feet in surrounding hillsides. The region experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers averaging 85°F and winters that can drop below freezing. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from March through November, with limited year-round options requiring water line winterization during colder months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Elk Neck State Park Campground offers multiple fishing locations including North East River access. "We saw bald eagles and great blue heron," reports one visitor, highlighting the bird watching opportunities while fishing the waterways.
Kayaking and boating: Lums Pond State Park Campground provides easy water access with electric motors only permitted on the pond. "Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," notes a regular visitor. The 177-acre pond offers paddling opportunities without the strong currents of the Susquehanna.
Hiking trails: Susquehannock State Park Campground features trails with river overlooks and woodland paths. A camper mentioned, "There's a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles. There are amazing wildflowers on that trail." Many trails connect to water features or historic sites within 1-3 miles of hiking distance.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: At Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina, the proximity to water is a major draw. "Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge," notes one visitor. These waterfront sites allow fishing directly from camp chairs.
Wooded, private sites: Susquehanna State Park offers secluded camping spots. "I camped here for just 1 night during a work trip, and was pleasantly surprised with how nice it all was. I chose site 26 I believe, it was very private from neighbors and the road, surrounded by beautiful mature trees," reports a camper who appreciated the separation between sites.
Pool and water amenities: During hot summer months, swimming options become essential. One camper at Tucquan Park Family Campground stated, "The pool and playground were very clean and well taken care of." Several campgrounds offer swimming areas as alternatives to river activities, which can have strong currents during certain seasons.
What you should know
Variable site quality: Check specific site details before booking. At Muddy Run Rec Park, a camper noted, "We lucked out with a lot that was slightly more secluded on the end of a road, but paid for it with a very sloped lot that made sitting at the picnic table or camp chairs a bit of a struggle."
Hookup locations: Water and electric connections aren't always conveniently placed. "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," warned a Muddy Run visitor. Many older campgrounds have widely spaced utilities requiring longer hoses and cords.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds have limited seasons. While Elk Neck State Park remains open year-round, facilities may be reduced in winter. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," reported a late-season camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Tucquan Park Family Campground receives high marks for child-friendly facilities. "Our 3 young kids enjoyed the playground the most — there were lots of fun things for the kids on the playground. There was also a nice pond — it looked pretty full of fish," shared one family camper. Request sites near playgrounds for easier supervision.
Scheduled activities: Many campgrounds offer organized events for children. "This campground goes above and beyond to make you feel like home... This campground features an amazing playground, a pond, a beautiful pool, a rec room, a wonderful hiking trail, and a basketball court," noted a visitor to Tucquan Park.
Disconnected experience: Limited cell service can create family bonding opportunities. As one Elk Neck camper described, "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect. I absolutely love it!" Many families appreciate the natural focus without technological distractions.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville offers various site types. "The site was covered and it was cool around 4:30pm when the sun went behind the trees. It didn't look like all sites had that much cover so be careful," advised an RVer visiting during summer heat.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete utilities. "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," warned an experienced Elk Neck camper.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. Bar Harbor RV Park requires driving through residential areas. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," noted one RVer, highlighting the importance of researching approach routes for larger vehicles.
