Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area extends across 5,600 acres of diverse terrain in Cecil County, Maryland, about 18 miles from Concordville, Pennsylvania. Situated in the Piedmont region where Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland meet, the area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 220 to 450 feet. The natural resource area maintains moderate temperatures throughout camping season with daytime highs averaging 75-85°F in summer and 55-65°F in spring and fall.
What to do
Trail riding: Access 80 miles of maintained trails at Fair Hill Natural Resources Management Area, where both day use and overnight equestrian camping are available. "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. in her review.
Fishing opportunities: Try your luck at French Creek State Park where two lakes offer diverse fishing options. "There are several warm water fish in the lakes including northern pike, chain pickerel, bass, walleye, muskellunge and several types of panfish. Ice fishing is also allowed at both lakes and the ice thickness is monitored," explains Jen R. in her detailed review.
Water activities: Rent canoes or kayaks at the lakes for non-motorized exploration. "We did take our inflatable kayak out on the water, and it was lovely! There is also a nice picnic area with grills and picnic tables right by the boat landing, where we picnicked and hung out for an afternoon," shares Katie M.
Hiking trail networks: Find connected trail systems perfect for day hikes from most campgrounds. "The trails were well marked, and the day 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," reports a camper from Lums Pond State Park.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the breathing room between sites at Hibernia County Park. "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected and there are no running water bathrooms. Very clean and wooded sites," notes Chelsea in her review of this equestrian-friendly park near Concordville.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent bathhouses. "The bathroom facilities and laundry are clean and modern. There are separate, individual shower rooms," reports Adam and Suzanne B. about their experience at Lums Pond State Park.
Natural settings: Wooded camping areas provide shade and privacy at several parks. "We LOVE this campground. It's tiny (19 sites in Fiddlers loop), it's quiet, it's heavily wooded. There is NOTHING to do except walk or bike the beautiful trails, spend time on Chamber's Lake, spend time in the hammock and stare at the fire," shares Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
Affordable options: Budget-friendly camping is available at several parks. "Inexpensive $15 a night, but you only get picnic table and fire ring. No hook ups. Great children's pond for 12 and under," mentions John Z. regarding Hibernia County Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many horse campgrounds near Concordville fill quickly during peak season. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park, which offers equestrian access.
Limited hookups: Be prepared for primitive camping at some parks. "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," warns Jennifer S. about Hibernia Park.
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts trail conditions significantly in this region. "We have been having a crazy amount of rain here in Pennsylvania so due to weather related issues we haven't been able to get out there until now," reports Jen R. about her spring camping experience at French Creek.
Facility variations: Bathroom options vary widely 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," notes a reviewer about Hibernia Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Find campgrounds with dedicated play areas for children. "Nice area to wash dishes. Very nice playground area and clean," mentions Jen R. about French Creek State Park.
Kid-friendly fishing: Take younger anglers to designated children's fishing areas at Blackbird State Forest, located within 30 miles of Concordville. "Great children's pond for 12 and under. Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too. Great playground," shares John Z.
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with historical learning at parks near historic sites. "There is the Reading and Berks County Visitors Bureau and Chester County Visitors Bureau, State Game Lands 43, Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site and Daniel Boone Homestead," notes a camper about attractions near French Creek State Park.
Safety considerations: Note that some campgrounds have challenging terrain for very young children. "Yes, it is quite hilly throughout the campground, but the individual sites are very level to park the camper with almost no blocks needed," reports Craig F. about Starlite Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check campground reviews for information about site grading. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze," shares Jen R. about French Creek State Park campsites.
Hookup availability: Confirm services before booking as they vary widely near Concordville. "We paid $46 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Back-in site(#56)," notes Matt S. about Starlite Camping Resort, adding, "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved."
Dump station access: Not all parks provide this essential service. "There is NO DUMP STATION. There are a few nearby campgrounds that will let you dump for a fee, otherwise, you'll have to look for a truck stop on the way home," advises Jennifer S. about Hibernia County Park.
RV size limitations: Verify your rig will fit before reserving. "If you have a large camper or 5th wheel you may need to double check what sites can accommodate your RV to ensure you have enough room," cautions a reviewer at French Creek State Park.