Tent camping near Drumore, Pennsylvania offers options on both sides of the Susquehanna River at elevations ranging from 250 to 800 feet above sea level. The camping season in this area typically extends from mid-March through October, with July temperatures averaging 85Ā°F during the day and dropping to 65Ā°F at night. Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly, particularly in the river valley.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 3.4-mile trail at Susquehannock State Park Campground leads to scenic overlooks. "There are some excellent views of the Susquehanna River," notes reviewer Tom F., who also recommends "a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles."
Fishing at Chamber's Lake: Kids 12 and under can use the special children's pond at Hibernia County Park. "The children's pond is a short ways away for well stocked fishing," confirms Anna, while John Z. adds that "Brandywine creek and Chambers Lake are there too" for more fishing opportunities.
Horseback riding trails: Several paths accommodate riders within the state forest system. "You can bike to the trail from the campground. All downhill. So be ready for the climb back up," advises David G. about the connecting trail system.
What campers like
Morning creek sounds: Campers appreciate waterside tent sites. "The stream is public access and there are lots of hikers, joggers, and people expecting you not to be camping," notes Philip B. about Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area.
Spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds offer room for multiple tents. "Campgrounds are spaced out large spaces for multiple tents, camping cost $25 a night flat rate, for up to 6 days," explains Meagan J. about Mill Creek Camping Area, adding that "Campground will refund you if rain prevents your stay."
Diverse terrain: The combination of woods and water access appeals to campers. "Large campsites at the Lake Loop. Map is a little deceiving- the sites are farther from the lake than I expected," says Chelsea about Hibernia County Park, while another camper notes "plenty of hammock hanging opportunities" at wooded sites.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: From outhouses to modern facilities. "The bathhouses are rebuilt recently and are very nice," says David G. about Susquehannock State Park, while at Mill Creek, only portable toilets are available.
Hiker traffic near campsites: Some campsites are located along public trails. "Hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas," warns Sakina P. about Mill Creek Camping Area. A Hibernia County Park camper notes "the campground is ON the hiking trail so everyone doing the loop walks along the sites."
Limited privacy at some campgrounds: Tree coverage determines seclusion levels. "There is absolutely no privacy. The campsites are right next to each other with hardly any trees," reports Abi D. about one loop at Hibernia County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Best playgrounds: Patapsco Valley State Park-Hilton Area features extensive play areas. "The Hilton entrance of Patapsco Valley Park is perfect for keeping the kids entertained. There is a huge playground, sensory trail and nature discovery center at the entrance to the park," says Angel G.
Kid-friendly water access: Look for shallow creek areas during summer months. "When it's hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing," says Philip B. about Mill Creek's stream access.
Campsite selection for families: Choose sites away from main trails. "Walking/hiking trails and the lake were super peaceful," notes Chelsea about Hibernia County Park, though another camper cautions about "people with dogs off leash" on nearby trails.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds have size restrictions. At Group Camp ā Ridley Creek State Park, only group camping sites can accommodate larger vehicles. At Hibernia County Park, a reviewer notes "though at first glance the sites don't look big enough to house an RV, there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18."
Limited hookups: Prepare for primitive camping conditions. "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," advises a camper about Hibernia County Park.
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "They aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix," explains a reviewer about Hibernia's RV sites, one of the few tent campgrounds near Drumore with RV accessibility.
Legend
