Tent camping near Emigsville, Pennsylvania offers rustic experiences within 30 miles of town. Sites range from county parks to state recreation areas, with most locations situated along waterways or within forested settings. The region's elevation varies between 400-600 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperatures during spring and fall camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing access: Hibernia County Park offers multiple fishing opportunities with a dedicated children's pond for young anglers under 12. "The children's pond is about a 3 minute hike down the clearly marked trails" and is "well stocked," according to Anna at Hibernia County Park.
Water recreation: Yellow Breeches Creek at Lower Allen Community Park provides kayaking opportunities with convenient access points. "You can put in a few miles up and float down to your site. There is parking right there," notes Joann at Lower Allen Community Park.
Trail exploration: Susquehannock State Park maintains extensive hiking networks with river views. A camper notes, "There are lots of long scenic hiking trails down to Deer creek and to the Susquehanna River" and "a great bike trail to the Conowingo dam which is a nice place to visit, and a great place to see lots of eagles."
What campers like
Stream proximity cooling: The natural air conditioning effect of camping near water enhances comfort during warmer months. Philip at Lancaster County Mill Creek Camping Area reports, "The stream is refreshing and the site stays fairly cool. When it hits the high temperatures a quick dip in the water is amazing."
Evening tranquility: Mill Creek Camping Area provides ambient sounds that improve sleep quality. Meagan notes the "campsite is down by the creek making for a cooler camping experience and love the sound of water flowing at night."
Tree coverage: Most campsites in the region offer natural shade that moderates temperatures. Jennifer at Hibernia County Park describes it as "heavily wooded which means plenty of hammock hanging opportunities."
What you should know
Campground closure timing: Many parks have restricted operating seasons or weekend-only availability. Hibernia County Park is "only open on the weekends, in season" with a season running "May to October."
Site privacy considerations: Proximity to hiking trails can affect seclusion at some locations. At Mill Creek Camping Area, "hikers take any trail instead of marked trails regardless of families camping in private areas," according to Sakina, who recommends requesting clarification about trail traffic.
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water access. At Susquehannock State Park Campground, "potable water is available in several places on each loop," while other locations require campers to bring their own supplies.
Reservation requirements: Certain parks have special booking procedures for peak periods. Hibernia annually hosts events requiring reservations: "This is the only weekend that you are REQUIRED to call in to reserve, and you must reserve both Friday & Saturday nights."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas within walking distance of campsites. Anna shares that Hibernia County Park has a "great playground" accessible via marked trails from the camping area.
Fishing for children: Designated fishing areas for younger campers enhance the experience. Hibernia offers a "children's pond for well stocked fishing" specifically for kids 12 and under.
Site selection strategy: Families should consider locations and separation from other activities. Chelsea at Hibernia County Park notes "large campsites at the Lake Loop" but cautions the "map is a little deceiving - the sites are farther from the lake than I expected."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most primitive sites have limited capacity for larger vehicles. Jennifer at Hibernia advises, "I wouldn't attempt to park an RV up there" in Lake Loop, but notes Fiddler's Loop can accommodate some RVs: "there are a few sites that will, including #3, #17 & #18."
Water tank preparation: Without hookups, water access requires planning. Jennifer cautions RV campers at Hibernia: "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."
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires equipment and positioning skills. Jennifer notes sites "aren't level, but nothing a little creative positioning can't fix" when camping with a 28-foot fifth wheel.
