Camping options near Conestoga, Pennsylvania extend from the banks of the Susquehanna River to the surrounding farmland of Lancaster County. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 250 to 450 feet and experiences humid summers with temperatures typically in the 80s. Winter camping is limited as most campgrounds in the area close seasonally, with a few exceptions offering year-round access.
What to do
Kayaking at Susquehanna River: Access the river directly from Otter Creek Campground, where the boat launch accommodates small watercraft. "Great campsite right on the Susquehanna! secluded and nice amenities!" notes Zoe H. The nearby islands make it ideal for exploring by kayak.
Disc golf course: Try the well-maintained course at Muddy Run Rec Park, which offers an excellent layout for beginners and intermediates. "Having spent most of my childhood here camping at this park i was delighted to bring my family back to where I grew up. I love that they have added some new features such as the wonderful water park as well as a very well laid out and up kept disc golf course," shares Alanna M.
Amish farm tours: Learn about the local culture while staying at campgrounds in Lancaster County. "There are free tickets available for the Amish Farmland Bus Tour," explains Matt S., who enjoyed his time at Country Acres Campground. These guided tours provide insights into the agricultural practices and lifestyle of the Amish communities.
What campers like
Spacious creek-side sites: Campers appreciate the generous camping areas along local waterways. "The primitive sites are back in the woods which kept us nice and cool on hot July nights. The location also kept us fairly bug free," writes Christine L. about Tucquan Park Family Campground, noting the comfortable natural setting.
Clean facilities: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Conestoga maintain exceptionally well-kept bathhouses. "This campground is probably the most well maintained campground we have ever stayed at. The grounds are beautiful, facilities above and beyond the expected," notes Stephanie S. about Country Acres Campground.
Quiet atmosphere: Campers seeking peace value the tranquil settings. "We got pretty lucky and were assigned one of the concrete pads that was pretty level. It is absolutely beautiful out. The grounds are well-kept, and aside from the 8pm Saturday night golf cart parade that was beyond loud, it's been really quiet and peaceful," reports Nick E. about his experience at Thousand Trails Circle M.
What you should know
Water conditions vary: The Susquehanna River can become muddy after heavy rainfall. "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," explains Nancy W. about a campground in the area.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds operate from April through October. "We stayed in the area for two days, but it was a great spot, the campground was clean and quiet and not too crowded, the staff was very friendly and helpful," notes Ryan C. about Otter Creek Campground, which is open April 1st to October 31st.
Pet policies for campers with dogs: Old Mill Stream Campground and other pet-friendly sites have specific rules. "Pet friendly. No children. No frills. Great place to explore Amish country from," explains Ray P. about Beacon Hill Camping, highlighting that some campgrounds have age restrictions alongside their pet policies.
Tips for camping with families
Water park activities: Some campgrounds offer water features beyond natural swimming. "The water park is super fun for adults and kids. The entire campground is clean and very well maintained," shares Ashley S. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Quarryville.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with updated play areas for children. "Kids will have a Blast! Fun fun and more fun loads of activities for the kids!" says Terri S., who enjoyed the facilities at Jellystone Park with her family.
Character interactions: Special events featuring campground mascots add excitement for younger campers. "We did a birthday package where they brought a cake to the camp with Booboo for my daughter," mentions Mya M. about her experience at Jellystone Park, demonstrating the special celebrations available.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV campers should research site layouts before booking. "We chose site 302 which was at the far end of the campground away from the amusement park. During our stay, the amusement park was closed so the park was not very crowded and there was no noise associated with the park. Our campsite was perfectly level and had a large gravel patio area and a large shade tree behind us," advises Nancy W.
Hookup considerations: Pay attention to the placement of utilities. "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," warns Chris G. about camping at Muddy Run Rec Park, highlighting the need to come prepared with extra-length connections.
Early arrival benefits: "They have a 'go find a site' policy they have, but it worked out fine. I got an amazingly large site with a nice fire pit and picnic table. The site was very level so that was great!" explains Joe B. about his experience at a pet friendly campground near Conestoga, showing that flexibility and early arrival can lead to better site selection.
