Campgrounds near Concord, Pennsylvania typically operate in a continental climate with warm, humid summers averaging 85°F and cold winters with temperatures often below freezing from December through February. The region sits at elevations ranging from 350-500 feet above sea level, with local watersheds feeding into the Susquehanna River Basin. Most campgrounds in this area feature a mix of wooded and open sites, with gravel pads being the most common surface type for both tent and RV camping.
What to do
Explore Amish craft traditions: Visit the small towns around Old Mill Stream Campground to experience authentic Amish culture. "We stayed in site 123 with a 40 ft Allegro Bus. Plenty of room to maneuver a big rig. All gravel sites and we had full hookup with 50 Amp," notes Chuck W., highlighting the accessibility for travelers wanting to explore local craft shops.
Visit historical sites: Make a day trip to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site from French Creek State Park Campground. This preserved iron furnace complex offers a glimpse into early American industry. As Jen R. mentions, "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," making it ideal for combining outdoor recreation with historical exploration.
Enjoy water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation. A visitor at Old Mill Stream Campground observed, "There is a small, slow flowing river that runs along the front of the park which some people play in and float down in inner tubes." The nearby lakes at French Creek State Park provide additional water recreation options with rentals available seasonally.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Reviewers consistently highlight exceptional maintenance standards at several Concord PA area campgrounds. At Country Acres Campground, a camper noted, "The new bathhouse has better restrooms than my own home! Everything is clean and well managed." This attention to cleanliness extends to common areas and campsites.
Cultural immersion: The opportunity to experience Amish country firsthand draws many visitors. At Beacon Hill Camping, one visitor shared, "Located within walking distance of small town of Intercourse, PA, with plenty of shopping and Amish crafts. Very friendly people." Another camper mentioned watching "a horse drawn equipment cutting grass while we cooked dinner" at Country Acres.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at certain campgrounds. At French Creek State Park, Jen R. observed, "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," which contributes to a more private camping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Concord region operate from spring through fall, with varying opening and closing dates. The Lancaster/New Holland KOA operates "Apr 15 to Oct 31," while Spring Gulch is open "Mar 21 - Dec 1." Plan accordingly and book well in advance for peak seasons.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby activities. At Lake-In-Wood Campground, a camper mentioned, "There is a quarry close by so you could hear the trucks beeping and the noise from there but that was the only negative thing." Similarly, at Old Mill Stream, a reviewer noted proximity to a theme park, advising, "The entrance off the main road turns you into the theme park. Fear not. Turn in and follow the road to the right and into the campground."
Agricultural impacts: Rural locations mean agricultural scents may be present. One candid reviewer at Old Mill Stream Campground remarked, "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot... when the wind shifted the horrid smell drove us inside." However, this varies by location and wind direction.
Campground demographics: Some campgrounds cater to specific demographics. Beacon Hill Camping is "pet friendly" but has "no children" policies, making it ideal for adults seeking quieter stays.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Campgrounds with pools and water activities rank highly for family satisfaction. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, a parent shared, "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained." This provides entertainment when parents need a break from hiking and sightseeing.
Schedule around special events: Many campgrounds offer seasonal programming. A reviewer at Thousand Trails Circle M noted, "We happened to be there on the weekend a magician came, my kids loved it. They have an indoor and outdoor pool. Nice playground." Check campground calendars when booking to maximize entertainment options.
Look for playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas. At Country Acres Campground, a visitor commented, "The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself and loved it," highlighting facilities designed with younger children in mind.
Consider campsite proximity to bathrooms: For families with young children, site selection matters. Choose locations close enough to facilities but not so close that nighttime traffic becomes disruptive. At Old Mill Stream, sites in the 300 range are described as "at the far end of the campground away from the amusement park," offering a quieter family experience.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limitations for big rigs. At Mill Bridge Village, a camper advised, "Look at the map when selecting a site. The sites in the center are like a parking lot. Small, no shade and wide open. We prefer the creek side sites." Similar considerations apply at Beacon Hill Camping, which one reviewer described as "a little tight for big rigs."
Hookup configurations: Pay attention to electrical service availability. While many campgrounds offer 50-amp service, this isn't universal. At Old Mill Stream Campground, a reviewer specified their site had "full hookup with 50 Amp," which is important for RVs with higher power requirements.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have tricky entrance routes. A visitor to Old Mill Stream Campground explained, "This Campground is in the town of Lancaster, close to everything. A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway," highlighting the need to prepare for navigation challenges in advance.
Consider rental options: For those visiting without their own RV, many campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. Lake-in-Wood Campground features "a set of bunk beds, a queen bed, and a fold out couch" in their cabins, providing comfortable options for groups without RVs.
