Campgrounds near Conestoga, Pennsylvania feature varying terrain with sites positioned along creeks and the Susquehanna River at elevations between 250-400 feet. The region experiences a humid continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows regularly dipping below freezing. The camping season extends beyond what many expect, with several facilities operating from early March through November.
What to do
Kayak the Susquehanna River: Riverside camping at Tucquan Park Family Campground provides excellent water access. "There is a huge wood pile and it was only $10 per wheelbarrow full. We had a great time relaxing as this is in the fields of Lancaster county. Very peaceful!" writes Jen R.
Explore Mason Dixon Trail: Hiking trails connect multiple campgrounds with varying difficulty levels. The Otter Creek Campground sits near several trailheads. One camper noted, "Great campground with plenty to do. Its close proximity to the Susquehanna River, Otter Creek, and the Mason Dixon Trail is absolutely ideal!"
Visit Indian Steps Museum: Located just a mile from some campgrounds, this historical site showcases Native American artifacts. "The campground is in a good location to Lancaster and other quaint Amish towns like Bird-In-Hand, Paradise, and Intercourse," according to Nancy W. who stayed at Old Mill Stream Campground.
Play disc golf: The 18-hole course at Muddy Run Recreation Park offers varying difficulty levels for all skill levels. "The large lake is great for a day of kayaking and fishing with supplies readily available for rent at the boat dock store. If you are looking for some hiking there is a hiking trail that will take you all around the parameter of the large 144 acre park," writes Alanna M.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Pequea Creek Campground offers creek-side camping with easy water access. "We brought our 7 year old and we visited the playgrounds, hiked the trails and explored the creek area. Boat ramp near by, we had site 54 which was nice and private. Site had fire ring, picnic table, water and electric," says jessica A.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses at several parks. "The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," writes Stephanie S. about Country Acres Campground, adding that it's "probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at."
Local culture access: The proximity to Amish communities creates unique camping experiences. "Located w/in walking distance of small town of Intercourse, PA, with plenty of shopping and Amish crafts," writes John H. about Beacon Hill Camping, noting it has "very friendly people" and is an "inexpensive stay."
Woodland privacy: Several campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowded areas. "We always book their group site, it's huge! The sleeping area and cooking/hanging out area are way spread out so if you have kids you don't have to worry about noise at night. It's tucked back in a corner, you don't even see a neighbor!" says Cait B. about Pequea Creek Campground.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Some campgrounds have dramatically different site types. "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," advises Stacy D. about Mill Bridge Village.
Water hookup distances: Prepare with extra-long hoses at certain campgrounds. "Make sure you have a long hose for water hookup. Water pumps were spaced pretty far and we needed at least a 100 ft hose to reach," warns a reviewer about Muddy Run Rec Park.
Weather impacts: The Susquehanna River area experiences flooding that affects camping conditions. "Unfortunately, with all of the rain we have had here in Pennsylvania this summer the river was brown with mud and tree debris. There was no way any fish was going to see anything in that water," notes Jen R. about Otter Creek Campground.
Seasonal booking requirements: Weekends fill quickly from April through October. "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 Karla R. about Circle M RV and Camping Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Pools and splash pads provide relief during hot summer months. "The pool is new and has a sloped entrance so my two year old could play by himself and loved it. Some of the cleanest camp bathrooms and showers I have seen," writes Megan T. about Country Acres Campground.
Activity planning: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers structured programming for children. "Super clean, beautiful campground. So many activities to entertain kids, we couldn't fit it all in!" shares Karla R., while another camper advises, "This park is all for the kids. They have the pools and playgrounds and fishing."
Playground access: Consider site proximity to play areas when booking. "This campground features an amazing playground, a pond, a beautiful pool, a rec room, a wonderful hiking trail, and a basket ball court," notes christine L. about Tucquan Park Family Campground.
Affordable entertainment: Free and low-cost activities available throughout the region. "The campground throughout the year has activities and events that are fun for the whole family, my favorites being the Halloween fest in October and an Native American Pow wow," explains a visitor to Muddy Run.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "We were originally supposed to be in the woods — which FYI is far out of the way of the main activities, and also has a pretty steep incline. But the site was too uneven for our taste so we moved down in the main area," warns melissa about Tucquan Park.
Big rig access: Some parks accommodate large RVs better than others. "We stayed on 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," shares Chuck W. about Old Mill Stream Campground.
Utility placement: Electric and water hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. "Cons: 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. about camping at Muddy Run.
Winter options: Limited but available year-round camping exists. "Had a trip scheduled for February but had to postpone. The staff was very helpful and moved our date to March. We enjoy each stay here. This site backs up to the stream. Glad they are now open year round," notes Stephen W. about Mill Bridge Village.
