Camping options near Darlington, Maryland include several locations within 35 miles where travelers can enjoy outdoor recreation. The area sits at the northern edge of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, with elevations ranging from 300-500 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during peak camping season, while spring and fall bring milder conditions ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm in Dover, PA, the property offers pond fishing plus hiking trails through cornfields. "It was an easy hike as suggested on the map to circle around and through the cornfield, you get a great view of the farms nearby and the river," notes one camper.
Farm animal encounters: Gettysburg Farm provides hands-on farm experiences about 35 miles from Darlington. "We've enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares a visitor who appreciates the family activities.
Water recreation: The Bush River at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers kayaking and boating opportunities 15 miles from Darlington. "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," reports one kayaker.
What campers like
Waterfront settings: Many campers praise the waterfront sites at Bar Harbor. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. We are here visiting family for the holidays and it's serving us well," notes one visitor, adding details about "a cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks."
Pool facilities: Spring Gulch Resort Campground in New Holland features both indoor and outdoor swimming options. "Heated spa/pool in upper area are a bonus," mentions one reviewer, though they note that "staff was nice but not enough staffing to keep amenities like pool open after 5 during the week."
Camp stores and amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer well-stocked stores with necessities and treats. At Lake-In-Wood Campground, visitors mention "a big lawn in the middle which rolls down to the lake" and weekend activities like "a chicken dinner. It was actually very good."
What you should know
Site conditions: Campground terrain varies significantly across the region. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country in Manheim, "unlevel is an understatement we were in E row and every camper there had front end 4 foot off the ground. Many other sites were the same," reports one camper.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate from April through October. Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country's season runs "April 14 to October 29," while Spring Gulch operates from "March 21 to December 1," giving slightly more flexibility for early spring and late fall camping.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise issues from nearby highways or other sources. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "there's a shooting range near the property, so at all hours you will hear target practice going on, especially in the wee early hours."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Pinch Pond Family Campground & RV Park offers numerous family amenities. "Their game room has tickets. This is the one and only campground we have ever visited that gave tickets for playing games and my kids LOVED IT! It was like camping and going to chuckie cheese at the same time," shares one parent.
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm, families can enjoy "mini-golf, horseshoe pits, kids playgrounds, fire pit, designated picnic & BBQ areas" as noted by visitors.
Swimming considerations: Pool hours vary by location. At Pinch Pond, "unlike most campgrounds, the pool stayed open pretty late so that was a huge bonus for me," reports a family camper, though they mention "it could use an upgrade and I wish they had actual lounge chairs rather than just plastic chairs to sit."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Thousand Trails Hershey, RVers should arrive early for better site options. "For everyone complaining about driving around and not finding spots, if you get there early enough around 1 pm, you won't have a problem," advises one RVer, explaining the first-come system.
Navigation challenges: Some parks require careful driving through residential areas. At Bar Harbor, "you have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," notes an RVer who visited during off-peak season.
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring blocks and leveling equipment. At Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country, "sites are pretty uneven. Not just the one we're on but others as well. The campground is pretty hilly and they don't seem to want to level out the sites."
