Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area encompasses over 5,600 acres of forest and fields in northeastern Maryland. The property originated as an estate of William duPont Jr. and maintains historical structures alongside modern camping facilities. Trail networks connect through varied terrain with elevation changes ranging from 200-440 feet above sea level.
What to Do
Horseback riding trails: Fair Hill's extensive trail system accommodates equestrians with well-maintained paths through diverse terrain. "There are two primitive youth group camping areas. There are specific rules that need to be followed and the guidelines are on the website," notes Gen F. about Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area.
Lake activities: At nearby parks, water recreation provides additional options. "Lots of boating (electric motors only) and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking," according to Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground, located approximately 10 miles east of Perryville.
Hiking trail networks: Access miles of marked trails with varying difficulty levels throughout the region. "We took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond. It was a long, but easy hike," notes Mark at Lums Pond State Park.
What Campers Like
Spacious, secluded sites: Many campgrounds near Perryville feature well-separated camping areas. "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" reports Sarah M. about Blackbird State Forest Campground.
Clean facilities: Regional campgrounds maintain good standards for restrooms and common areas. "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," Mark shares about Lums Pond.
Natural surroundings: The wooded environment creates privacy between sites. "The sites are well maintained. The bathroom/showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year," says Bill G. about Tuckahoe State Park Campground.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance planning. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Limited hookups: Not all campgrounds offer full services for RVs. "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," explains Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects trail conditions year-round. "Trails are well marked, and the day we took a hike, we ended up on the equestrian trail that runs all the way around the pond," notes Mark about the trails at Lums Pond.
Facility differences: Bathrooms and amenities vary significantly between parks. "There are only pit toilets in Fiddler's loop, however there is a bathroom with running water, flush toilets and electric outlets (no shower) within walking distance of the loop," Jennifer S. points out about Hibernia County Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for parks with specific attractions for children. "The park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike," mentions Kasey M. about Tuckahoe State Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites near campgrounds provide learning experiences. "We do Lums Pond at least twice a year if we can get reservations... Lots of boating and kayaking on the pond and a decent amount of hiking. There's an off leash dog park, equestrian center and boat ramp," shares Ellen B.
Safety considerations: Choose camping sites based on family needs. "Each site has a fire pit, a grill, and two tables with a decent amount of space for tents," notes a reviewer named Blind about Blackbird State Forest Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: Research carefully before booking. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," shares Jen R. about French Creek State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Confirm utilities before arrival. "The campground is wooded and only has electric hookups available. The sites are well spaced. The bathhouse is dated and was clean enough to use," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Tuckahoe State Park.
Access considerations: Terrain can challenge larger rigs. "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," Jennifer S. explains about Hibernia County Park sites.