Conestoga camping areas sit at elevations between 300-500 feet in southeastern Pennsylvania's humid continental climate zone. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak camping months. Several campgrounds feature lakeside access or woodland settings within a 30-minute drive of Conestoga.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: French Creek State Park Campground offers two fishing areas at Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake with species including northern pike, chain pickerel, and bass. "There are two lakes, Scotts Run Lake and Hopewell Lake that you can fish at, kayak, canoe or just relax by," notes a visitor at French Creek State Park Campground.
Amish countryside tours: Lancaster-New Holland KOA provides views of working Amish farms from select campsites. "Best kept secret in the area. Peaceful, beautiful valley views of Amish country," reports one camper at Lancaster-New Holland KOA. Another adds, "Great spot for visiting Pennsylvania Amish of Lancaster County and about a one-hour drive to Hersheypark."
Disc golf courses: Pinch Pond Family Campground serves as an excellent base for disc golf enthusiasts, with French Creek State Park offering two 18-hole courses nearby. "Some of the groups can get rather loud especially when there are a bunch of teens," warns a Gifford Pinchot State Park Campground visitor who found the pet-free areas quieter.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Several campgrounds near Conestoga feature lakeside or riverside camping with direct water access. "Our site backed up to horse farm," mentions a visitor at Florys Cottages & Camping, highlighting the unique rural setting that distinguishes this area from standard campgrounds.
Camping near amusement parks: Old Mill Stream Campground provides convenient access to Dutch Wonderland. "A little complicated getting in, you need to turn in at the Cartoon Network Hotel driveway. Nice showers & friendly staff," shares a camper. "Clean campground with great access to Dutch Wonderland, outlets and other Lancaster County tourist attractions."
Seasonal activities: Tucquan Park Family Campground offers family-focused recreation options that change throughout the camping season. "They had a lot of events that people participated in like candy bar and regular bingo, corn hole and horse shoe tournaments and a dj," notes a reviewer who appreciated the social atmosphere.
What you should know
Local noise considerations: Some campgrounds in the Conestoga region may experience unexpected noise issues. "The only thing that is negative is that there is a shooting range right next door. It is pretty consistent from lunch to dinner," warns a camper at Pinch Pond Family Campground.
Agricultural impacts: The rural setting means camping near working farms. "The overwhelming impression of this campground was the smell of cow manure from the nearby dairy farm feedlot," reports one Old Mill Stream Campground visitor, noting that wind direction affected their experience.
Seasonal availability: Most standard camping sites in the region operate from April through October, but some offer year-round options. "The campground is very clean, nice spots with gravel and nice views. The store was stocked well with essentials," a Lancaster-New Holland KOA visitor mentions about their spring visit.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Many campgrounds offer swimming options for children. "The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself and loved it," shares a Country Acres Campground visitor. "The new bathhouse has better restrooms than my own home!"
Playgrounds and activities: Country Acres Campground maintains child-friendly facilities that appeal to younger campers. "This campground is amazing. I brought my family (4 children - 8 yrs, 6 yrs, 2 yrs, 3 months) and we had a great week," explains a visitor who appreciated the family-oriented setup.
Kid-friendly glamping options: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Quarryville specializes in upscale outdoor experiences designed for children. "This park is all for the kids. This will be our second year going. So much to do for the kids," says a camper who appreciated the specially-designed family accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers comprehensive RV services with family amenities. "We stayed in C1 during the hottest week in the summer (so far). The site was covered and it was cool around 4:30pm when the sun went behind the trees," notes a visitor who appreciated the shade during summer heat.
Site leveling considerations: Several campgrounds provide paved or gravel pads, but terrain varies significantly between sites. "All sites have a paved level area which made set up a breeze. Sites were not on top of each other," reports a French Creek State Park camper who found the setup process straightforward.
Site selection strategy: At Thousand Trails Circle M, specific loops offer different RV camping experiences. "As with all thousand trails, this campground is first come best site. While the top part of the campground seemed more communal, we chose the lower, Riverside sites and we're glad we did!" explains a visitor who preferred the waterfront area.
