Several campgrounds in the Quarryville area offer tent and RV camping experiences beyond the standard RV parks. The region sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level in Lancaster County's southern farmlands. Fall temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, while summer camping season sees averages of 65-85°F with moderate humidity levels affecting comfort at primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake-In-Wood Campground provides a fishing pond where campers can spend relaxing hours. "Nice fishing in the lake," notes Edward M., while another visitor mentions the "Huge pond for fishing" among the campground's attractions.
Mini golf courses: Lake-In-Wood Campground offers affordable mini-golf for families. "We enjoyed mini-golf, feeding the animals, 'hiking' through the cornfield, fishing, and campfires," shares Kasey M. The course requires minimal equipment as one camper notes, "You can borrow golf clubs but you do have to buy balls."
Animal interactions: Thousand Trails Gettysburg Farm provides unique opportunities for children to interact with farm animals. "Got a kick out of the children playing with the kids (baby goats) pigs, goats, chickens, horses and even lamas. Plenty to see and learn," writes Robert M. The animal feeding schedule runs each morning at designated times.
What campers like
Swimming options: Many campgrounds near Quarryville feature swimming pools with extended hours. At Pinch Pond Family Campground, "unlike most campgrounds, the pool stayed open pretty late so that was a huge bonus for me," reports Melissa Y. Multiple campgrounds offer both indoor and outdoor pools for varied weather conditions.
Weekend entertainment: Thousand Trails Circle M schedules regular weekend activities throughout the season. "Lots of events to keep the kids busy. We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it," shares Leanne B. The campground also provides "an indoor and outdoor pool" along with "nice playground" facilities.
Clean facilities: Pinch Pond Family Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "Our campsite was very spacious and the ENTIRE campground was extremely clean and tidy," notes Melissa Y., while Tara N. reports "super clean laundry room and bathrooms" among the positives.
What you should know
Site conditions: Many rv sites near Quarryville, Pennsylvania have uneven terrain requiring additional 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," reports Sammii D.
Seasonal differences: Sun Valley Campground operates from April through November with varying amenities throughout the season. "The store is closed due to covid but the pool is open. There was a Leibys ice cream truck and food stand open the whole weekend," noted Becca U. during a previous season.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby activities or highways. "There is a quarry close by so you could hear the trucks beeping and the noise from there," reports a Lake-In-Wood camper. Similarly, at Pinch Pond, one reviewer warns "there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner."
Tips for camping with families
Game areas: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated spaces for children's activities. "Lots of sports gear available for free to use within park, has to be returned by 5 when main office closes," mentions Beth B. about Spring Gulch Resort Campground.
Playground quality: Consider campgrounds with updated play equipment for children. "Nice playground for the kids and a small arcade open as well," reports one camper about Lake-In-Wood. Another mentions, "They have a tennis court, mini golf, basketball court, and you saw many kids out with their bicycles."
Special weekend activities: Appalachian Camping Resort schedules family-oriented events on weekends. "The campground had numerous activities set up all throughout the day and there was something for everyone... bingo, crafts, a vendor craft show, hot dog eating contest for adults and kids, candy scramble in the dark for adults and kids," writes Melissa Y.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: For rv sites near Quarryville and surrounding areas, timing affects site selection. "If you are an RVer or 5th Wheeler, the best sites IMHO are those that back up to the periphery and are northernmost up the slight embankment as you'll have greater privacy and less noise," advises Stuart K.
Water pressure challenges: Check water connections before setting up at some campgrounds. "Water pressure is pretty low and the sewer pipe is a little high but all around a really solid experience," notes Nick E. about Thousand Trails PA Dutch Country.
Site selection: At Spring Gulch, "Most of the campsite options are fairly level, but are very rocky, so this is something to keep in mind," according to Phinon W., who adds that campers with heavy-duty pegs still faced challenges securing equipment.
