The Conowingo area sits at the lower Susquehanna River, where the river widens before entering the Chesapeake Bay. This region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 85°F and mild winters with occasional snow. Camping sites near Conowingo, Maryland remain popular year-round due to their diverse ecosystems and access to both river recreation and nearby hiking trails.
What to do
Kayaking at Otter Creek: Paddle from Otter Creek Campground where the boat launch provides direct river access. "The boat launch is in great shape and with the close islands makes it great to put the kayaks in this huge gorgeous river! Then throw in Otter Creek... it's a great adventure paddling up the creek," notes Sean M.
Hiking the Mason Dixon Trail: Several campgrounds connect to regional trail networks within a 10-minute drive. "There is a hiking trail that will take you all around the parameter of the large 144 acre park with plenty of wildlife to be seen as well as small trails easily marked near the campground," explains Alanna M. about trails near Muddy Run Recreation Park.
Bald eagle viewing: Winter months bring concentrations of eagles to the dam area. Birdwatchers can access multiple observation points near Susquehanna State Park Campground, where one reviewer mentioned, "This is a state operated park with camping and primarily draws Eagle watchers and photographers."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the water-adjacent options at Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina. "The daily waterfront sites are pricy but right on the water with great views. Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble," reports George L.
Clean bathhouse facilities: Modern bathroom facilities rank high in camper satisfaction. At Lums Pond State Park Campground, "The bath house was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," according to Mark.
Creek access for cooling off: During hot summer months, creek access provides welcome relief. At Tucquan Park Family Campground, visitors appreciate the water options. "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."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill up months in advance, especially waterfront sites. "Book early because it fills up fast!" warns Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park.
Seasonal operations: While some parks remain open year-round, many have limited winter availability. At Pequea Creek Campground, operations run from "Early March to Late November" with seasonal activities peaking in summer.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigation through residential neighborhoods or narrow roads. "You have to drive through a residential neighborhood to reach Bar Harbor, so big rigs take care/caution," notes Craig Z.
Hookup inconsistencies: Water and electric hookup locations can vary significantly between 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. at Muddy Run Recreation Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: When booking with children, check proximity to play areas. At Susquehanna State Park, a camper noted: "As I mentioned, we stayed on a busy weekend in September and on Sunday morning, I found that there was no toilet paper in the ladies bathroom. Luckily, some generous camper had some and left a roll for the rest of us."
Kid-friendly water features: For summer camping with children, prioritize campgrounds with splash pads or swimming areas. "There is a ton of camping at Elk Neck, including a loop with full hook ups. There's a camp store, boat ramp, swimming, fishing and lots of great hiking," mentions David G.
Family event scheduling: Many campgrounds host regular activities for children. At Jellystone Park™ Quarryville, "Our first year we did a birthday package where they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter. They have the pools and playgrounds and fishing," shares Mya M.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the region require significant leveling. "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," warns David G. about Elk Neck State Park.
Full hookup availability: For extended stays, research hookup options in advance. "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. Nice clean bathhouses. Sites were level, spacious, spaced apart, with packed gravel surface," reports Laure D.
Cell service considerations: While most campgrounds near Conowingo offer reasonable connectivity, some low-lying areas have spotty coverage. "I camp there multiple times a year! It's dog and family friendly, close to resources, but far enough that it's quiet and feels remote! No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect," notes Megan S. about Elk Neck State Park.
